Team herald
CALANGUTE: Accusations have emerged from within Goa’s tourism sector, alleging that social media bloggers and influencers are deliberately tarnishing the image of the coastal state, purportedly at the behest of rival regions and countries.
“There are bloggers and influencers who are trying to defame Goa and bring down the name of Goa. They're paid by some other states and countries. Because of them, the name of Goa is getting tarnished,” said John Lobo, President of the All-Goa Tourism Stakeholders Association (AGTSA), during a press conference held in Calangute.
Lobo laid blame on social media for the noticeable dip in tourist arrivals this season, stating that online personalities often seize upon isolated incidents or underperforming locations to create a negative portrayal of the entire state. “There are certain areas where there are fewer tourists and that is portrayed as the whole of Goa which is not true,” he asserted.
Echoing similar concerns, Cruz Cardozo, President of the Shack Owners Welfare Society (SOWS), expressed frustration at the impact of online narratives on public perception. “Everybody is saying tourists are less in Goa. Social media influencers have given us negative publicity for some reason. We request the government to take action against these influencers,” he said.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo emphasised the importance of cleanliness and tourist safety in reviving the sector, while also pointing to the growing influence of online commentary in shaping perceptions of Goa.
Lobo also raised concerns about Goa’s waning appeal to affluent international visitors.