NEW DELHI/PANAJI: Primarily due to the ‘constant follow-up’ with the Centre by Goa CM Dr Pramod Sawant and other concerned departments, the Coastal State has got central funds of over Rs 258 core for six tourism-related projects.
The Union Ministry of Tourism has approved a series of tourism development projects across India worth more than Rs 5,756 crore over two years, with Goa emerging as one of the beneficiaries by receiving over Rs 258 crore for initiatives focused on tourism infrastructure, heritage conservation, eco-tourism and visitor facilities.
The details were shared by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, where he informed Parliament that a total of 117 tourism projects, amounting to Rs 5,756.62 crore, have been sanctioned under various Central government schemes. The projects are intended to strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve visitor experiences, promote destinations digitally and create better public amenities across States and Union Territories.
According to the Ministry, the investments are part of the Centre’s broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism while enhancing the appeal of destinations through modern infrastructure and improved facilities.
Goa has received funding under multiple flagship schemes of the Ministry of Tourism. Under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme, two major tourism experience projects were approved. These include Rs 24.07 crore for the Porvorim Creek Experience and Rs 19.88 crore for the Colva Beach Experience. Both projects are expected to improve visitor amenities while showcasing Goa’s natural and coastal attractions in a more organised and sustainable manner.
The State has also secured financial assistance through the Challenge-Based Destination Development Scheme. The Ministry sanctioned Rs 9.81 crore for the development of Mayem Village, focusing on eco-tourism and the preservation of Amrit Dharohar sites. The approved proposal also includes the beautification and development of the scenic Harvalem Waterfall, which is expected to strengthen the region’s tourism potential.
Religious tourism has also received a significant boost under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme. The Centre has approved Rs 16.46 crore for infrastructure development and pilgrim facilities at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, one of the country’s most prominent UNESCO World Heritage monuments, which sees a huge footfall of domestic as well as international tourists annually.
The project was actively pursued by the Goa Chief Minister’s Office and related departments with the objective of securing maximum Central assistance for improving facilities for pilgrims and visitors at the historic site, which attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists every year.
Apart from these initiatives, Goa has also benefited from the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme. Under this programme, the Union Ministry sanctioned Rs 97.46 crore for the development of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Ponda. Additionally, Rs 90.74 crore has been approved for the Townsquare Project in Porvorim, which aims to create modern public spaces and enhance urban tourism infrastructure.
The latest funding reflects the Centre’s continued emphasis on developing tourism destinations through targeted investments in heritage, culture, eco-tourism and public infrastructure. With these projects underway on a war footing, due to Dr Pramod Sawant’s constant follow-up, Goa is expected to further strengthen its position as one of India’s and the world’s leading tourist destinations while offering improved experiences for both domestic and international visitors.