Goa, Mar 05: Goa Tourism marked a significant milestone on the global tourism stage during its participation at the prestigious ITB Berlin, where the Goa Tourism Pavilion was inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, in the presence of Ajit Gupte, Ambassador of India to Germany, and Ms. Bharti K. Sharma, Deputy Director General, Marketing Promotion & International Cooperation Division, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Representing Goa Tourism were Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Shri Rajendra Tari, Information Assistant, along with co-exhibitor Shri Deepak Lotlikar of Travel Smith and Shri Mahesh Patil and Ms. Smita Patil, Director and Founder, Ms NV Eco Agro Tourism Pvt. Ltd., were also present alongside other dignitaries and international delegates.
Receiving the recognition, the Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “This recognition belongs to the people of Goa. Tourism in Goa is not just about destinations; it is about our communities, culture and environment. Our vision is to build a tourism model that is regenerative, inclusive and sustainable while ensuring that tourism benefits every Goan.”
A proud highlight was the global recognition received by Goa and its leadership at the prestigious PATWA International Travel Awards organised by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association on the sidelines of ITB Berlin. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, IT, Electronics & Communications, and Printing & Stationery, Rohan A. Khaunte, was conferred the “Tourism Minister of the Year – Innovation (Asia)” award in recognition of his transformative leadership and forward-looking initiatives that are reshaping Goa’s tourism landscape.
In addition, Goa was honoured with the “Destination of the Year – Rejuvenation” award, acknowledging the state’s successful efforts to reposition itself through sustainable, regenerative and experience-driven tourism. The recognition highlights Goa’s ongoing transition from a traditional beach destination to a diverse global tourism hub anchored in culture, spirituality, nature, adventure, wellness and community participation.
Under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa Tourism has been advancing several pioneering initiatives aligned with the vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches” and the principles of Regenerative Tourism, focusing on the three pillars of People, Economy and Environment. Key initiatives include the promotion of hinterland and spiritual tourism circuits, empowerment of local communities through homestays and women-led enterprises, the development of culture-driven festivals and experiential tourism offerings, strengthening international connectivity and partnerships, and the promotion of responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, stated “The recognition at ITB Berlin is a reflection of Goa’s evolving tourism vision. Our efforts are focused on creating meaningful and immersive travel experiences that celebrate Goa’s heritage, communities and natural ecosystems while ensuring sustainable growth for the sector.”
Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, GTDC, added “The response at ITB Berlin has been extremely encouraging. There is significant interest from European markets in Goa’s experiential offerings, including cultural tourism, hinterland experiences, eco-tourism and MICE travel. Platforms like ITB allow us to deepen engagement with global partners and showcase the new dimensions of Goa tourism.”
Further strengthening tourism diplomacy, the Embassy of India, Berlin hosted an “Incredible India Night”, bringing together prominent tour operators, travel trade members and dignitaries from across Germany. The Hon’ble Union Minister and the Hon’ble Ambassador attended the evening, where Goa Tourism representatives actively engaged with leading members of the German travel trade fraternity. Ambassador of India to Germany, Shri Ajit Gupte encouraged German travel trade partners to visit the beautiful state of Goa and promote the destination to their guests as part of a broader India travel experience.
The recognition at ITB Berlin 2026, one of the most influential platforms in global tourism, further strengthens Goa’s position as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking tourism destinations in the world, reaffirming the state’s commitment to responsible, regenerative and globally connected tourism growth.