“Goa Assembly: Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Fires Back at Paid Influencers Over False Claims”

“Goa Assembly: Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Fires Back at Paid Influencers Over False Claims”

Goa’s Tourism Minister, Rohan Khaunte, has strongly criticized paid influencers for spreading false narratives about the state’s tourism sector, claiming they make videos and statements to show a decline in tourism while sitting outside the state. Khaunte asserted that tourism in Goa is growing, citing official data that shows full flights at both airports and hotel occupancy rates between 70% to 100% throughout the year.

Khaunte challenged those claiming a drop in tourism to present evidence, defending the sector’s growth backed by official data. He emphasized that international tourist arrivals from countries like Kazakhstan, Poland, and Uzbekistan have increased following global promotions. “If there’s a decline, prove it,” Minister Khaunte said.

The minister has requested the Centre to extend the visa-on-arrival facility to Goa, which is currently available at select metro airports. Khaunte suggested involving coastal MLAs to push the demand forward.

Khaunte stated that Goa has recovered 50% better than Kerala post-Covid, emphasizing the need to set a positive narrative about tourist arrivals in Goa. The tourism department has written to the FRRO and will share incorporated data soon to support the minister’s claims.

The government aims to promote Goa’s tourism sector and showcase its growth, while also addressing issues like infrastructure and connectivity. Khaunte’s statements come as a boost to the state’s tourism industry, which has been working to recover from the pandemic’s impact.