Diwar: Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Wednesday launched the concept of “Regenerative Tourism” revolving around eleven spiritual sites and stress on the hinterland tourism.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Khaunte said that in a world that teeters on the edge of environmental fragility and societal imbalance, the call for change echoes louder than ever. It’s a clarion call that beckons us to reevaluate our approach to travel and tourism.
The minister said that since 2020, Goa has launched the Tourism policy. “We have emphasised on technology adoption and collaboration with a focus on making people and communities decision-makers in the tourism sector,” he said.
Unveiling the model of Regenerative tourism, Khaunte said that the aims is to “redefine our approach to travel and tourism.”
“ Our model of regenerative tourism will revolve around eleven spiritual sites or the Ekadasha Teertha,” he said.
Khaunte said that through travel and pilgrimage, the Indian people have expanded their geographical knowledge throughout millennia, freeing themselves from the constraints of regionalism and parochialism.
“This campaign unfolds in the regions of eleven places of worship in Goa. By involving local communities, especially women and youth, in exploring, understanding, and projecting their culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, Goa Tourism aims to harness the commercial and economic potential of their own history and heritage,” he added.
The minister said that the urgency for Regenerative Tourism stems from a profound understanding of the challenges we face today.
“Our planet’s ecosystems strain under the weight of conventional tourism practices, while local communities often bear the brunt of unsustainable development. The need of the hour isn’t just to mitigate these negative impacts; it’s to turn the tide and actively contribute to the restoration and rejuvenation of our planet and societies,” he said.
Khaunte said that Regenerative Tourism isn’t a luxury but a necessity, a transformative approach that transcends the limitations of traditional tourism models.
“It’s a holistic vision that recognizes the interconnectedness of nature, culture, and people, weaving them into a tapestry where each thread is vital for the whole,” he added.
“Surprising, we were already doing this even before we realised it was regenerative tourism,” the minister commented.
Khaunte said that this paradigm shift is essential because it aligns our travel experiences with the imperative to conserve and regenerate. By adopting regenerative practices, we breathe life into landscapes, revive cultural heritage, empower local economies, and create a virtuous cycle of sustainable development.
“Moreover, Regenerative Tourism isn’t just about safeguarding the environment; it’s about fostering a deeper connection between travellers and the places they visit. It encourages meaningful engagement, cultural exchange, and a genuine appreciation for the diversity and richness our world overs,” he said.
Khaunte said that regenerative Tourism embodies a commitment not only to enjoy Goa’s splendour but also to leave a positive and lasting impact on its landscapes, communities, and cultures.
The minister said that Goa in its our efforts to preserve cultural heritage, we are committed to revitalising ancient art forms and craftsmanship unique to Goa – festivals of Goa (Chikal Kalo, Carnaval, Shigmo).
“By supporting local artisans, we aim to foster an environment where traditional skills thrive, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with and appreciate our rich cultural tapestry.
Some of which my team will show you tomorrow when you head out to “Goa Beyond the Beaches,” he said.
