Empowering Tomorrow: Goa Celebrates Youth at the Yuva Tourism Clubs Meet

by  EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | September 27, 2024 | News

Yuva Tourism Clubs Meet Goa World Tourism Day

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, hosted Yuva Tourism Clubs Meet in celebration of World Tourism Day at Darbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Dona Paula on September 26, 2024. This event brought together more than 1000 students and youth representatives from various educational institutions across the state to explore new tourism opportunities, regenerative practices, and the vital role of youth in shaping the future of tourism in Goa.

The event was graced by Chief Minister of the state Dr. Pramod Sawant, minister for Tourism,Rohan A. Khaunte, Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa, Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, President of Travel and Tourism Association Goa (TTAG) ,Jack Sukhija and other esteemed dignitaries. 

Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of the state said, "Yuva Clubs will play a crucial role in integrating Goan manpower into the hospitality sector. Collective efforts are essential from the youth of Goa to promote new avenues of tourism, including sustainable, wellness, adventure, and spiritual tourism. We need young ambassadors to advocate for Goa and establish it as a premier destination for responsible and meaningful travel experiences, ultimately aiming to create a lasting legacy for future generations.” 

The Chief Minister further emphasized that, “Youth will have numerous job opportunities in the tourism sector in the coming years. The Yuva Tourism Club serves as a valuable platform for school and college students and for the youth entirely, which will provide them avenues for skilling, reskilling, and upskilling to prepare them for the different opportunities available in the tourism sector. The Yuva Tourism Club draws inspiration from the Prime Minister's vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which means ‘the world is one family.’ This ethos promotes unity and peace through tourism. As India’s tourism landscape evolves, it presents a golden opportunity for everyone to become global ambassadors.

The Minister further said, “We are delighted that more than a thousand students are part of the Yuva Tourism Club in Goa. The Minister encouraged the young audience to embrace their potential as ambassadors of change, emphasizing that their involvement today will pave the way for a more vibrant and sustainable tourism landscape tomorrow.”

The Minister also gave a brief account of the activities organized by the Department in celebration of World Tourism Day, highlighting key initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism. Additionally, he engaged the young generation, introducing them to the innovative concepts of tourism, which focus on transforming travel through new approaches such as regenerative tourism, the promotion of Ekadasha Teertha, and showcasing Goa beyond its beaches.

Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC said, “Goa is proud to be India’s first state to implement regenerative tourism, focusing on environmental restoration, community empowerment, and cultural preservation. This model encourages mutual respect between tourists and locals while promoting eco-friendly initiatives. In celebration of World Tourism Day, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has organized the Yuva Tourism Club Meet to honour the contributions of over 150 plus clubs across our state. Aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s initiative for India@75, these clubs engage our youth in responsible tourism and cultural immersion. In 2023, there were approximately 30 Yuva Tourism Clubs, and by 2024, this number has expanded to over 150 plus clubs throughout Goa. Our commitment to diverse tourism—from hinterland to spiritual experiences—positions Goa as a leader in conscious travel. Through strong partnerships with local schools and colleges, we are empowering our youth to shape Goa’s tourism narrative, ensuring a sustainable future for both our community and visitors.”