Goa scouts for global consultants to boost tourism

The government of Goa is on the lookout for international consultancies for turning Goa into a world class tourism destination.

This was stated by Samuel Mathew, principal secretary, tourism, government of Goa, while addressing the 47th annual Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India Convention at The Leela, Goa, today.

Mathew said, ''Goa has been doing beach tourism for over 40 years now and monotony sets in. We are looking for international agencies which can provide us with the consultancy services. Goa is a major international tourist destination but the next step required is to make Goa into a destination of international class. We are planning to look at the possibilities in developing beach shacks, water sports etc.''

Sounding a word of caution, he also said that the growth has to be sustainable. ''We also have to take care of environmental issues and local population. They have to be protected. Tourism is a multi-dimensional industry and many inter-departmental procedures are to be followed.''

On FHRAI's demands  on taxation, he said that broadly, taxes need to be rationalised across the board. Double taxation should be avoided and every state has different priorities. In Goa also there are issues related to the land acquisition, casinos, etc, he said.