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Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Goa government set to pass stricter law to curb ‘nuisance' at tourists hotspots
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Mumbai: With an aim to curb 'public nuisance ' at tourists places and provide for more hospitable and sustainable experience to its visitors, the Goa government is set to introduce a key amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, significantly widening the scope of punishable offences at tourist destinations across the amendments expands the legal definition of 'nuisance' and significantly increases penalties for activities deemed disruptive or damaging to public order. The bill is expected to be introduced in the upcoming session of the Goa Legislative Assembly Sources said that the decision comes in response to the rapid growth in tourist numbers, which has been accompanied by a surge in activities that authorities say threaten public order and the overall visitor experience. Goa Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte asserted that the growing number of tourists has unfortunately been accompanied by a rise in activities that undermine the quality of the visitor experience and disrupt public order. '...this legislation is a step in the right direction to address these issues and maintain Goa's reputation as a responsible and world-class tourism destination,' Khaute the amended law, a range of actions—such as pestering tourists to purchase goods, drinking alcohol in unauthorized areas, littering, breaking glass bottles, cooking in open spaces, illegal hawking, and ticket touting—will now be clearly defined as nuisances. Unauthorized operation of water sports and boating activities will also fall under the purview of the updated legislationThe amendment also includes a provision for biennial reviews, allowing the Department of Tourism to revise fine amounts every two years by up to 10%.The revised bill imposes much tougher fines against the offenders. While offenders were previously fined up to ₹50,000, under the new law, penalties can now range from a minimum of ₹5,000 to as much as ₹1,00,000. Depending on the severity of the offense, violators may also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, government's initiative aims to create an environment where public spaces are better managed to allow the tourists a holistic experience. '...this major legislative update is part of ongoing efforts by the Goa government to enhance visitor experiences, safeguard public order, and support the state's commitment to sustainable tourism. With better guidelines and stronger penalties now in place, Goa continues its journey towards establishing a tourism ecosystem that is both welcoming and well-regulated,' said an official.
News18
a day ago
- News18
Goa Says No To ‘Nuisance' For Tourists: Stricter Law Against Unlicensed Water Sports, Littering
Last Updated: Known as the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, 2025, the law expands definition of 'nuisance' and increases penalties for disruptive activities In a decisive move to boost tourism standards, the Government of Goa will soon pass a key amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001. Known as the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, 2025, the new law expands the definition of 'nuisance" and increases penalties for disruptive activities at tourist sites. The amendment comes as tourism in Goa has rapidly expanded, leading to a rise in unauthorised practices that affect both visitors and local communities. Under the new law, behaviours that cause public disturbance—such as pestering tourists to buy goods, consuming alcohol in unauthorised areas, littering, cooking in open spaces, unauthorised hawking, and illegal ticket touting—are now clearly defined as nuisances. Additional violations include the unauthorised operation of water sports and boating activities. Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte explained that the growing number of tourists has unfortunately been accompanied by a rise in activities that undermine the quality of the visitor experience and disrupt public order. 'This legislation is a step in the right direction to address these issues and maintain Goa's reputation as a responsible and world-class tourism destination," he said. The revised act imposes much tougher fines on those who violate its terms. While offenders were previously fined up to Rs 50,000, under the new law, penalties can now range from a minimum of Rs 5,000 to as much as Rs 1,00,000. Depending on the severity of the offense, violators may also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. In addition to the increased fines, the amendment will introduce a provision for periodic review. The Department of Tourism will have the power to re-evaluate and adjust the fine amounts every two years, with possible increases up to 10% of the existing fines. This measure is intended to ensure that the law remains effective as tourism patterns and challenges evolve. Officials say the move is designed not only to preserve the aesthetic and cultural appeal of Goa's tourist areas but also to promote responsible, sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and local residents. The government's initiative aims to create an environment where public spaces are respected and maintained for the enjoyment of everyone. This major legislative update is part of ongoing efforts by the Goa government to enhance visitor experiences, safeguard public order, and support the state's commitment to sustainable tourism. With better guidelines and stronger penalties now in place, Goa continues its journey towards establishing a tourism ecosystem that is both welcoming and well-regulated. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Demanding Answers: Is R2. 4bn in tourism funding delivering results?
Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu said the Department had introduced safety forums in collaboration with the SAPS and had engaged the Deputy National Police Commissioner, with a joint meeting planned. Image: Supplied IN a fiery parliamentary session, Members of the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade launched a blistering assault on the Department of Tourism (DT) and South African Tourism (SAT), demanding hard evidence that its R2.4 billion budget delivers tangible results, not just meetings, marketing campaigns, and bureaucratic bloat. The July 16 hearing, presided over by chairperson Sonja Boshoff from the DA, turned into a scathing interrogation of the Department's accountability, effectiveness, and strategic coherence, with one question echoing louder than the rest: 'How much of the 8.8 million international tourists can be directly attributed to the Department's efforts?' That question came from the DA's Nicolaas Pienaar, who refused to back down despite warnings over language and procedural objections. 'I pose a critical question: how much of this activity could be directly attributed to the Department's efforts?' Pienaar demanded, referencing Tourism's claim that 8.8 million international tourists generated R95bn in revenue. Pienaar challenged the Department to show evidence linking its work to the arrival of the 8 million international tourists. He asked for a study or proof demonstrating the Department's direct impact, and expressed strong doubt that the numbers could be credited to departmental efforts. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ He further accused the Department of focusing more on internal processes than real-world outcomes: 'The Department seemed more focused on holding meetings than on delivering tangible results. He criticised government culture for equating success with the number of meetings held, rather than concrete outcomes.' His criticism was echoed across party lines. The ANC's Mpho Modise raised concerns over 'duplication of roles' between the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism, Brand South Africa, and Proudly South African. He pointed to nearly identical slides in both the DT and SAT presentations and asked: 'What is the purpose of maintaining separate entities with overlapping mandates? Suggestions should be given to consolidate these bodies,' Modise said, warning of 'inefficient use of public funds'. The chairperson also delivered a stinging rebuke. Boshoff expressed 'dissatisfaction with the DT based on past issues, including the attempted R1bn sponsorship deal with Tottenham Hotspur, which had occurred without proper consultation.' She cautioned against repeating such decisions. Boshoff also zeroed in on SAT's skewed priorities: 'I questioned how SAT planned to effectively manage and grow domestic tourism with such limited funding,' noting that of the R1.3bn allocated to SAT, only R20m was earmarked for domestic marketing, just 1.5%, compared with R1.28bn for international campaigns. Pienaar also brought to the fore the harsh global reality facing South African tourism: a damning US travel advisory warning visitors to 'exercise increased caution' due to crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping — the second result on Google for 'Visiting South Africa'. 'This negative global perception was a serious barrier to tourism, and should be a major focus area for the Department,' he said. The ANC's Mapule Dhlamini pressed the Department on safety, asking: 'How would this be achieved, given the continued reports of serious crimes against tourists, including rape and murder? There are ongoing safety challenges that make South Africa feel unsafe, both for locals and visitors.' Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu responded that the Department had introduced 'safety forums in collaboration with the SAPS' and had engaged the Deputy National Police Commissioner, with a joint meeting planned. But no comprehensive national safety strategy was presented. Governance concerns erupted over the SAT Board's operations. The chairperson revealed that in 2023, board members were paid about R900 per meeting, with 54 meetings held between March and September, costing about R900 000 out of a R1.44m board budget. 'What governance or oversight mechanisms existed to ensure the necessity and frequency of board meetings?' she asked, suggesting 'introducing a fixed retainer model or capped meeting allowances to control excessive costs'. Sotyu confirmed that three board positions remained vacant, though CVs had been reviewed and were awaiting Cabinet approval. She acknowledged that the Auditor-General had raised concerns and that the Minister had taken a direct role in oversight. Meanwhile, MPs from the Northern Cape demanded answers on untapped potential. The ANC's Patrick Mabilo noted that 'desert tourism was not mentioned in the report, despite the untapped potential of regions like the Kalahari'. He asked: 'How can we leverage our BRICS membership, which accounts for 40% of the global population?' He also cited the Big Hole in Kimberley as a 'rare, man-made attraction' but lamented that such sites were not being marketed aggressively. The FF+'s Hendrik van den Berg added: 'Why has the DT not disclosed the specific countries being targeted in Africa and Asia? I want to know the exact partners involved.' Dr Shamilla Chettiar, DDG of Destination Development, admitted that a 'targeted country list was in development' but had not yet been finalised. The long-delayed Vredefort Dome project, a Unesco World Heritage site, was also brought into the spotlight. Van den Berg asked if it would be completed by August this year. Sotyu's update was rather sobering: 'It would not be completed by August 2025, and likely not by August 2026 unless urgent funding became available.' She said while DT was managing implementation, the lead department was actually the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). Pienaar raised another red flag regarding the official-looking tourism website which ranks first on Google for 'Visiting South Africa'. He asked: 'Is this managed by DT or SAT?' No answer was given during the session. He also questioned why the Department, with a 'R400m salary budget', planned to spend an additional R10m annually on consultants. 'What skills are lacking internally that require external consultants at such a cost?' he wondered. When Pienaar insisted on answers to his two core questions — the direct impact formula and website ownership — the chairperson acknowledged: 'They fell within the mandate of SAT.' But with time running out, she ordered written responses within seven days. Then came the final blow. A planned evening session on the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF), which is meant to support small, medium- and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs), had to be postponed because the Deputy Minister could not attend due to a prior commitment. Boshoff expressed her extreme dissatisfaction: 'The invitation was sent last Friday. The Minister indicated she would not attend but would send the Deputy Minister. The confusion likely stemmed from internal communication failures. The committee has resolved not to continue with the TEF meeting in the absence of the executive… It would not be fair to allow Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) and the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) to proceed without representation from the DT.' The session ended not with resolution, but with unresolved tension, unanswered questions, and deep concerns about duplication, governance, safety, and value for money. The Department said it was aiming for 15 million international arrivals by 2030. But as Pienaar put it: 'Show me the formula. Show me the proof. Show me the return on R2.4bn.' Get the real story on the go: Follow the Sunday Independent on WhatsApp.
GMA Network
5 days ago
- Climate
- GMA Network
Strawberry farm in La Trinidad, Benguet damaged by floodwaters
The famous strawberry farm in La Trinidad, Benguet has been completely covered by floodwaters due to the effects of Tropical Storm Emong. According to the report of EJ Gomez on "24 Oras" Friday, the farm looked like a lake due to the floodwater in the areas caused by heavy rains. 'Biglang umapaw yung tubig. Wala na, nasira na. Yung pananim namin... kawawa kami. Mangutang ulit, palit ng pananim,' said farmer Segundo Balanoy. (The water suddenly rose. That was it, the farm is ruined. Our harvest... we're unfortunate. We'll take out another loan and replace our crops.) The flood subsided at around 10 a.m. on Friday. Several areas of Benguet had been previously placed under Signals No. 2 and 3 because of the active weather systems. Tourist spots in Benguet were among the areas declared temporarily suspended by the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday due to the impact of bad weather. PAGASA said that as of 5 p.m., Tropical Storm Emong is approaching Batanes and may begin to weaken for the rest of the forecast period. Only Batanes and Babuyan Islands remain under Signal No. 2. — Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/BAP, GMA Integrated News
Hans India
6 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Arunachal Minister inaugurates IITM Travel Fair in Bengaluru
Bengaluru: The vibrant city of Bengaluru welcomed the travel and tourism fraternity as the India International Travel Mart (IITM) officially opened its doors today at the Tripura Vasini, Palace Grounds, heralding a three-day showcase of the finest in travel, tourism, hospitality, and destination marketing. Pasag Dorjee Sona, Minister for Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh inaugarated the fair. Speaking on the occasion he said that his government is stressing more promoting tourism in the state. 'Peace and Tourism are related. Tourism is an effective mechanism to promote culture of the land. While all states are doing it, Arunachal Pradesh cannot rest in the cocoon. The events like provide us opportunities to spread our wings and reach out more enthusiasts', he said. Several dignitaries including Dr. R Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Govt. of Karnataka, Sri. Syamaraju, President, Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India and Karnataka Tourism Society; Sri. Prashant Shankhinamath, IFS; Managing Director, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited and others were present. IITM is India's premier trade exhibition that brings travel, tourism, hospitality, leisure and other related industries under one roof. It aims to bring the industry, face-to-face with the travel trade, corporate buyers and the end-customers. The event will see the participation of travel agents and tour operators, DMC, hotels and resorts, national tourism offices, technology platforms, online travel portals, etc. As IITM celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year, the occasion forms an important business platform. Travel agencies, hoteliers, tour companies, and other industry stakeholders can interact and network resulting in collaborations, partnerships, and joint ventures. IITM features over 800 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and 20 international destinations, showcasing diverse travel options like pilgrimages, adventures, culture, wildlife, and more. From Indian rhinoceros in India's North East to Rajasthan's festivals to Karnataka's heritage sites, the event enriches holiday choices. Emphasizing Karnataka's tourism, it boosts the upcoming Mysuru Dasara Festival and promotes the state's archaeology and culture. The 'India International Travel Mart' offers networking opportunities for the travel industry to expand portfolios and conduct business. Sphere TravelMedia Director, Sanjay Hakhu added: "We are delighted to inaugurate the Bangalore edition of the India International Travel Mart 2025, one of the most anticipated events in the travel and tourism calendar. Every edition of IITM is built with the vision of driving tourism growth across verticals — from leisure and MICE to wellness and responsible travel. This year, we have seen remarkable enthusiasm not just from travel professionals, but also from state tourism departments, international destinations, and the hospitality sector, all of whom are eager to showcase what they have to offer. Bangalore, as a host city, brings together an audience that is globally connected, tech-savvy, and highly mobile — making it a critical market for both outbound and domestic travel', he said. 'The India International Travel Mart (IITM) has always strived to be more than just an exhibition — it's a movement that connects destinations, experiences, and people. As we open the Bangalore edition of IITM 2025, we are proud to see the overwhelming response from exhibitors and delegates, both domestic and international', said another Director of Sphere TravelMedia, Rohit Hangal. The Tourism fair will conclude on July 26.
