Goa, a land of sun sand and surf is the smallest State by area which stretches beyond the Sahyadri range of mountains on western coast of India. It was referred to as ‘Sunaprant’ (golden land) it is evident that this land is full of delight, natural beauty and hospitality. Besides the attractive beaches the kind and hospitable nature of citizens of Goa make the tourists throng to this spot.
A large number of international and domestic tourists reach Goa each year for breathtaking beaches, vibrant nightlife, delicious food, adventure activities and its rare biodiversity. Tourism is generally focused on the coastal belt of Goa. In 2020 over 3 million domestic tourists visited Goa while the foreign tourists accounted for over 300,000.
Although under the surge of prevailing COVID pandemic conditions the tourists are welcomed with enormous heart, stressing to focus on the protocols. Goa is one of the most toured places in India. The biggest attraction that cannot stop people is the adventurous watersports jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat ride and water scooter rides. Many people visit the famous churches and temples like the Bom Jesus Basilica, Immaculate Conception Church at Panjim, Mangeshi Temple, Mahadev Temple, etc. The old heritage site Aguada Fort and the Dudhsagar Falls are also the spots of attraction.
Goa has all that makes a holiday a memorable experience for everyone. Tourism generates 13.7% of net product, 7% of employment and 7% of tax revenue. Tourism plays a vital role in economy. If you look around, are we happy with the existing scenario in Goa? Do we take delight in saying yes Goa is totally safe for all? Amidst this fun, frolic and revenue, there is also an awful side, which brings bevy of issues along with the rise in crimes which affects the tourism industry detrimentally. This takes the real charm of our Goan identity.
The crime rate of Goa has registered a 17.8% rise in last five years. According to Goa Police record, the cops had seized narcotic drugs worth Rs 6.7 crore in 2020 as compared to 2019 when total seizures amounted to Rs 5.5 crore. The substance which was consumed only by adults has gradually attracted teenagers. In many instances they die of overdose. Did we dream of this Goa? A girl, who had left for her job, did not reach to her destination. However, was found dead on the beach. Is this the safety which we are yearning for? Is reckless cutting of trees is the only way to development? Is there any initiative taken to replenish and revive our old Goa with its natural beauty?
Drugs, crimes, human trafficking and all other scandals just hollow our beautiful Goa. The ethics, which were inculcated in us by our forefathers, should be recalled and emulate them to restore the identity of our land. Let us not be mere spectators and accept the title ‘susegad’ but ethically strive for its upliftment being an example for other States. The best gift we can gift our next generation is a healthy, clean and safe Goa. “Remember the struggles you are in today, develop the strength you need for tomorrow.”
