Panaji, October 22, 2025: Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte convened a meeting on Wednesday to discuss key measures to streamline watersports operations across Goa and ensure a safe, organized, and enjoyable experience for tourists. The meeting was attended by Michael Lobo, MLA, Calangute; Kedar Naik, MLA, Saligao; Sankalp Amonkar, MLA, Mormugao; Delilah Lobo, MLA, Siolim; Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Octavio Antony Rodrigues, Captain of Ports; police officers; other senior officials; and representatives of the watersports associations.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Khaunte stated, “Watersports form a major part of Goa’s tourism sector, where traditional Goans have been engaged in this business for generations. With time, we must ensure that regulations and transparency are maintained to provide the best possible experience for tourists.”
He further emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting traditional watersports operators while addressing the challenges they face. On the issue of rate uniformity, the Minister informed that the Department of Tourism has notified the rates proposed by the watersports associations in the official Gazette. “Uniform rates for watersports across Goa from North to South have been finalized and will be implemented by all associations to ensure consistency,” he added.
Highlighting the problem of illegal sale of watersports activities by travel agencies, Khaunte noted, “Currently, several travel agencies, both online and offline, are selling watersports packages without authorization. The Tourism Department, in coordination with local panchayats and the watersports associations, will enforce strict measures to curb this activity without inconveniencing tourists. We have decided to restrict such agencies from selling watersports packages that hamper legitimate business.”
He further mentioned that several travel agencies operating in Goa have been diverting tourists by selling tickets for watersports activities in coastal areas of other states, an act declared a nuisance under The Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced in the last Assembly session in July 2025. “With the help of the Transport Department and Tourist Police, we are moving towards proper enforcement to address this issue. The Department of Tourism will integrate and promote the official websites of the watersports operators on the Goa Tourism website to create awareness and ensure visitors have access to authentic information,” he added.
The Minister also shared that uniformity in the design of kiosks will soon be introduced. “Whether one visits a beach in North or South Goa, the kiosks will have a standard look and feel, making them easily identifiable as official watersports kiosks,” he said.
Khaunte further stated that the government and the association are working hand in hand to curb touting. “The association has assured us that their staff will be issued ID cards. This initiative is welcomed, provided proper data sharing is done with the Department of Tourism after police verification,” he mentioned.
He further stated that the Captain of Ports has been instructed not to grant any permissions for tourism activities during the monsoon ban period, keeping in mind the protection of marine biodiversity.
