Kashmir rubbing shoulders with Goa
R.K. Sinha
There is much in store for the Indian tourism industry. It can expect a boom for two reasons. First, growing popularity of Kashmir and Goa both the tourist destinations. Second, the Pran-Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya which has become a great religious tourist destination not only in India but in the entire world. It is on the dotted lines. Religion attracts people all over the world.
But no one had believed a decade ago that ice-clad Kashmir in winter will become a big tourist attraction. The valley had become a terrorists hide -out. Stone -pelting and firing of gunshots had become a common every day feature. All that is past. In less than ten years everything has changed. No one also believed that well being Kashmiri population will move to Goa sea beaches for their holidays.
Now, Kashmir is coming closer to Goa known for its beautiful beaches. Many would not believe their eyes and ears. But it is a reality, though unbelievable at the first instance. Thousands of people from Kashmir valley visiting Goa also underlines that the two states are coming closer.
Both are equally popular. These two are among the states which are the best tourist destinations not only in India but also in the world. Goans have been going to Kashmir to spend holidays for a long time, but utill a few years ago such a thing was unthinkable for Kashmiris.
However, the situation changed rapidly and people of the valley are going to Goa in large numbers to spend holidays. Those traveling in Delhi-Goa flight can easily see this welcome change. If you have ever travelled to Goa from the capital’s Indira Gandhi International Airport in recent times, you must have seen Kashmiris going to Goa with their families. This also confirms that the situation in Kashmir, which was once turbulent, is now different. During his recent visit to Srinagar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also said that and more. Kashmir is changing economically too.
The warmth with which the people of Kashmir welcomed him was unimaginable till a few years ago. ” I am working hard to win your hearts,” the Prime Minister had said at a rally held at Bakshi Maidan in Srinagar . The main reason behind Kashmiris going to Goa for holidays is the peace. Since there is no direct flight from Srinagar to Goa, Kashmiris have to go to Delhi first. From Delhi they will have to take a flight to Goa. When there is bone-chilling cold in Kashmir, they begin journey to Goa. Kashmiris like to visit the sea-facing city from November to January. It has an inclusive society.
Bigger crowds can be easily seen on beaches like Calangute, Baga Anjuna and Candolim. If you talk to Kashmiri tourists in Goa they they would tell you two things.
First , they were tired of the long period of unrest in the valley. Now as things are getting better in their state, they are experiencing peace along with development. They consider Goa as a place to relax. Secondly, Kashmiri tourists will be found praising Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for one reason—-efforts made by the Goa government to promote tourism and provide more facilities and safety to tourists. This is a big compliment to the Goa government.
The Chief Minister has something more up his sleeves. He has some new proposals for “quality tourists”. Everyone from hotel owner to taxi operator will benefit from the scheme. Although tourists keep coming to Goa throughout the year , the influx is more from the first week of October and it is during Christmas, New Year et al , that peak is reached. The arrival of tourists continues till the month of May. Every year about 80 lakh tourists visit Goa. Among them are a large number of foreign tourists.
There is no doubt that the last year i.e. 2023 proved to be very important in the development journey of Goa. Because of that many important meetings were held in Goa under G- 20 summit. Goa also hosted an important event, G-20 ministers meet focused on tourism. The event symbolized the unification of international leaders and policy makers engaged in discussions on global economic matters. It highlighted not only the natural beauty of the region but also its role in shaping global tourism. It is true that the G- 20 summit held under the chairmanship of India had a positive impact on the Goa tourism. One could see it in the increase in foreign tourists visit to Goa in the last two years.
In fact after the G20 summit many airlines are toying with the idea of starting direct flights to Goa. Famous cricket writer and commentator Tony Cozier once said that Goa’s breathtaking beaches and life can attract anyone. Bright sunshine invites to sunbathing on the beach. It is also beneficial to milky skin. The aroma of coconut water, melodious music and wonderful sea food also attract to the beaches. A good many hang out near the beaches, shop and eat on the streets.
Like foreign tourists, Kashmiris love the bright sunshine when their own place is cloudy and chilly. Russian tourists also visit Goa in large numbers every year. When it is summer in Goa, it is severe winter in that country, a reason enough to make a beeline. Several restaurants and stores have written names in Russian to draw their attention.
Above all is the access which is easier. The Goa government deserves a part for it. The tourism sector plays a major role in shaping the destiny of a state. The sooner the other states realise it , the better .
(The writer is a senior Editor, columnist and former MP)