Goa, India, is gearing up for the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2024, where it will showcase its commitment to sustainable tourism under the theme “Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship.” The Goa Tourism Pavilion will highlight the region’s innovative strides in sustainable tourism, focusing on pillars such as hinterland exploration, heritage site restoration, and the promotion of spiritual tourism.
As Goa prepares for Lok Sabha elections, political dynamics are shifting. The ruling BJP and Congress remain key players, with the saffron party looking to extend its dominance. The upcoming polls will see fierce competition between BJP incumbent Shripad Naik and Congress veteran Ramakant Khalap in North Goa, while South Goa, traditionally a Congress stronghold, will pit newcomer Pallavi Dempo of the BJP against former Naval officer Viriato Fernandes of the Congress. The Revolutionary Goans party emerges as a third challenger, adding to the political intrigue. Environmental protection, resumption of mining, and recent controversies have fueled election discourse.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant firmly believes that religion and politics should remain separate spheres. In a recent statement, he elaborated on his stance, emphasizing the potential for conflict and division when the two are mixed. Sawant stressed the importance of respecting all religions and maintaining communal harmony in a diverse society like Goa.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant of Goa has outlined his vision for improving public transportation in the state, aiming to enhance connectivity and accessibility for residents and tourists alike.
In a recent speech, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant emphasized the importance of safeguarding the unique cultural and linguistic heritage of Goa. He stated that the preservation of Goan identity is crucial for the state’s progress and development.
Congress candidate Captain Viriato Fernandes has sparked controversy by demanding dual citizenship for Goans, alleging that the Constitution was forcefully imposed on them. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant criticized Congress for this. Fernandes had discussed the issue with Rahul Gandhi in 2019, but was told it was not constitutional. Fernandes, however, argued that Goa was not a part of India when the Constitution came into effect. Archbishop Felipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao has issued a directive for Catholics to vote for secular candidates who uphold constitutional values.
