Team Herald

PANJIM: With the Goa Tourism Master Plan and Tourism Policy yet to take shape, the government is set to frame Night Tourism Policy in a bid to regulate the night life operations in the State. 

Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar has said the policy will be framed in consultation with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. “The night tourism policy will be framed shortly after a thorough consultation with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who has been always encouraging yet watchful. No foreigner will be given bar licence or be allowed to operate in the night life industry,” he said in a press statement issued on Tuesday. 

Ahead of 2019-20 tourism season Ajgaonkar warned of police action against persons indulging in anti-social activities that would tarnish the image of the State.

“Our policy setting is to protect the Goan entrepreneurs, and I wish to let the people of Goa know that illegal activities like night clubs associated with drugs and other illegal activities such as flesh trade, etc, will not be tolerated,” he warned adding that “It is time we handle quality and quantity with great responsibility.”

“I take this opportunity to wish each and every Goan all the very best for the coming tourism season. Today, tourism is the economic backbone of our beautiful State. The industry employs thousands of people, and is a window to showcase our tradition and culture to the world. The Tourism Department will strive hard to get 

high value international visitors this season, so also we are focusing on Indian tourists with attention. I wish the tourists who visit Goa return to their respective countries with fond memories of our beautiful State. This industry is made by Goans for Goa,” the release further states. 

The tourism season will commence on October 4 with first charter carrying over 200 passengers to land at Dabolim airport.