Rohan Khaunte claimed on Wednesday that the social media campaign against tourism was “successfully uncovered”. Khaunte told reporters at Mantralaya, Porvorim that there were attempts to portray Goa’s tourist sector negatively.
He said:
“We have successfully exposed propaganda by providing support figures on the arrivals in the state of tourists.”
Khaunte said that the numbers were presented on the floor of assembly. Several websites published news reports that claimed tourism in Goa is on the decline. Khaunte stated that the tourism department had also filed a complaint with the social media account responsible for posting inaccurate information about tourist footfall. Khaunte said that some politicians, including South Goa’s MP (Capt Viriato) were irresponsible in their handling of tourism.
Rohan A. Khaunte has refuted social media claims that the number of tourists in Goa is inflated. He said that the data was false and was causing unnecessary anxiety among locals and investors. Goa tourism is recovering well, despite challenges. Focused efforts are being made to improve the tourist experience and address concerns about transportation and price.
“South Goa MP suddenly stood up and said something unwarranted regarding tourism in the state. “I don’t expect much from him but I do expect that people in responsible positions make mature and responsible tourism statements,” he said without providing any further details. “They are killing the goose themselves.” He said that there are challenges, but they are ones we are confident in overcoming.
Khaunte said that some people make statements to gain publicity. “These people have become social-media politicians.”
“I think they need to know that when it’s about Goa, we must be united,” he continued.
A spokesperson for the tourism department said last week that, while global travel was experiencing unprecedented disruptions as a result of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, affecting foreign tourist numbers around the world, Goa’s tourism international was on a steady recovery path.
“In 2023, the number of foreign tourists arriving in Goa will reach over 4,50,000. This is a significant rise from the pandemic lows that were experienced during the Pandemic, as travel restrictions have been eased and global mobility has improved,” he said. According to the department’s report, Goa had over 8 million domestic tourists in 2023.
The spokesperson also dismissed comparisons made between Goa’s destinations and Sri Lankan ones, saying that they may give an incorrect perspective.
