Travel And Tour World Interviews Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, India at QTM

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Rohan A. Khaunte is the current Minister for Tourism in the Government of Goa, India. With a deep commitment to enhancing Goa’s tourism sector, he has played a pivotal role in promoting the state’s diverse offerings, from its beautiful beaches to its rich cultural heritage. Under his leadership, Goa has embraced sustainable tourism practices, focusing on environmental conservation, local empowerment, and expanding infrastructure to meet global travel demands. Khaunte is also a strong advocate for the digital nomad community, promoting Goa as an ideal destination for “Work from Goa.” His efforts aim to create a balanced, sustainable, and culturally enriching experience for tourists, ensuring that Goa remains a top global destination while benefiting local communities.

To begin with, could you share your thoughts on the growing partnership between Goa and Qatar in tourism?
The relationship between Goa and Qatar in tourism has tremendous potential. Goa and Qatar are well-connected, with a direct flight already operating between the two destinations. We see this as just the beginning of what could be a transformative partnership, not only in terms of travel but also in terms of business and cultural exchange. As a destination, Goa offers a lot more than just sun, sand, and sea. Our goal is to showcase the diversity of Goa, including our heritage, wellness tourism, and spiritual offerings. We want to create a strong, sustainable tourism ecosystem that attracts the right kind of tourists and makes Goa a top choice for travelers from the Gulf and beyond.

The concept of “Work from Goa” became quite popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. How do you see this trend evolving in the coming years?
The “Work from Goa” concept is a prime example of how Goa can adapt to new trends and embrace change. During the pandemic, many realized that they could combine work and leisure, taking advantage of Goa’s natural beauty while working remotely. We are actively promoting Goa as a destination for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking for a balance between work and lifestyle. The state offers a conducive environment for creativity, with serene spaces, vibrant culture, and modern infrastructure. Over the next few years, we see this trend growing as more people seek a change of environment without compromising on work commitments.

Goa has been hosting several international sporting events, such as the Ironman 70.3 and world-class beach volleyball tournaments. How do these events contribute to Goa’s tourism sector?
Hosting international events like the Ironman 70.3 and world beach volleyball championships is a crucial part of our strategy to expand Goa’s tourism offering. These events attract global audiences and not only help promote Goa as a sporting destination but also generate a significant economic impact. They increase visibility and open new markets for tourism, particularly in niche segments like sports tourism. As we continue to host such events, we aim to extend the length of stay for tourists by offering a variety of experiences beyond the traditional beach holidays, such as wellness retreats, cultural festivals, and adventure sports.

Goa is known for its rich cultural heritage. Could you elaborate on the initiatives that the Government of Goa is taking to promote cultural tourism?
Cultural tourism is one of Goa’s hidden gems. We have so much to offer in terms of heritage, art, music, and local traditions. The Government of Goa is committed to promoting cultural tourism by showcasing our local festivals like Carnival, Shigmo, and the Feast of St. John the Baptist. Additionally, we are focusing on preserving and promoting our local crafts, architecture, and folk traditions. We’re working on creating more platforms for artisans and local performers to share their culture with visitors. By enhancing infrastructure and providing support to the local community, we aim to make Goa a cultural hotspot for travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences.

Goa has introduced policies that promote sustainable tourism. Can you share more about these initiatives and their significance?
Sustainability is at the core of our tourism strategy. We have launched initiatives under our Goa Tourism Sustainable Roadmap that aim to protect the environment while promoting tourism. This includes responsible tourism practices that minimize negative impacts on our natural and cultural resources. We are also focusing on promoting eco-friendly accommodations, waste management, and conservation of our beaches and natural habitats. Sustainable tourism isn’t just about preserving the environment; it’s also about ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach local communities. The policy includes provisions for women’s empowerment, local entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. We are committed to ensuring that the tourism industry is a force for good, benefitting not just visitors but also the people of Goa and future generations.

As a popular destination, how does Goa plan to address the challenges of connectivity and tourism infrastructure?
Connectivity is crucial to Goa’s growth as a tourism destination. While we have direct flights connecting Goa to major international hubs, we are working to improve air, road, and rail connectivity further. This includes expanding infrastructure at our international airport and enhancing connectivity to lesser-known, but equally beautiful destinations within Goa. We’re also focusing on providing seamless travel experiences, from improved transport options to better hospitality services. We want tourists to feel that Goa is accessible, comfortable, and well-equipped to handle their needs. Infrastructure development is a priority for us to ensure that Goa remains a top destination not only in India but globally.

Lastly, what message would you like to share with potential travelers from Qatar and other international markets?
I would like to invite everyone to experience the magic of Goa – a place where the sun, sand, and sea come together with rich heritage, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Goa is not just a destination for relaxation; it’s a place where you can discover yourself, indulge in wellness, explore historical sites, and enjoy world-class events. We are working hard to ensure that every visitor has a unique, memorable experience. I encourage travelers from Qatar and around the world to explore Goa in all its facets – from its beautiful beaches to its cultural treasures – and to witness firsthand the incredible tourism experiences we have to offer. We are excited to welcome you!

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