Goa is actively pursuing the implementation of Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) facilities at both its international airports, Dabolim and Manohar International. This strategic push aims to significantly enhance international tourist arrivals and streamline travel processes to the coastal state, underpinning a vision for more sustainable and equitable tourism development. The move reflects a concerted effort to expand Goa’s global footprint while ensuring that increased visitor numbers align with the state’s environmental and social objectives.
The state government is preparing to engage with central authorities in Delhi to advocate for the inclusion of Goa’s airports under the Union government’s VoA scheme. This high-level advocacy underscores the perceived transformative potential of VoA as a “game changer” for Goa’s tourism economy. The current e-visa programme covers over 170 countries, yet visa-on-arrival remains restricted to only four nations and operates at a limited number of designated metro airports across India. Expanding this facility to Goa is crucial for diversifying tourist source markets and reducing travel friction.
Discussions have already commenced with central aviation authorities, with plans for further engagement with home affairs and external affairs ministries. This multi-pronged approach highlights the state’s determination to overcome existing limitations and secure a more accessible entry point for international visitors. By simplifying the entry process, Goa aims to attract a broader demographic of travellers, fostering a more inclusive tourism sector that benefits local communities and provides gender-neutral employment opportunities.
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the push for VoA aligns with broader principles of sustainable tourism. Increased international arrivals, facilitated by easier visa processes, can be managed to support local economies, promote cultural exchange, and encourage responsible travel practices. The systematic recording of tourist and hotel occupancy data through the Tourism Information Management Enterprise (TIME) software indicates a commitment to data-driven decision-making, essential for balancing tourism growth with environmental preservation and community well-being.
While acknowledging the inherent benefits and potential limitations of VoA, the state is committed to finding a “comprehensive and balanced solution.” This cautious yet proactive stance suggests an understanding that tourism growth must be carefully managed to prevent over-tourism and its associated environmental and social impacts. By targeting new markets through international roadshows and sustained promotion, Goa is not only aiming for increased footfalls but also striving to build a more resilient, diversified, and sustainable tourism ecosystem that contributes positively to a zero net carbon future for the region.
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