Panaji: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman did not mention Goa in her Budget speech, but the state’s hospitality sector found optimism in her announcement of five medical tourism hubs.“Budget 2026-27 continues emphasising infrastructure development of rail, airline, and waterway connectivity, which bodes well for tourism,” said Travel and Tourism Association of Goa’s Jack Sukhija. “Incentives for seaplane manufacturing should benefit a coastal state like Goa. The focus on medical tourism hubs allied with traditional healing systems is particularly noteworthy.”
Goa’s hospitality sector anticipates foreign travellers on archaeological circuits will add the state to their itineraries. Sitharaman announced 15 archaeological sites, including Lothal, Dholavira, Adichanallur, Hastinapur, and Leh Palace, will be developed as tourist attractions. She also promoted world-class trekking experiences in North India and along the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border.“The proposal to promote heritage and cultural tourism is a good idea, particularly since when these circuits are marketed to foreigners, they tend to also visit Goa for around two days at the end of their holiday,” said Sukhija.Calling tourism vital for employment, forex earnings, and local economic growth, Sitharaman outlined proposals for a National Institute of Hospitality, upskilling 10,000 guides at 20 tourist sites, and creating a National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid.Sukhija welcomed the 12-week guide training programme for guides as a major positive for Goa.“The tourism focus is commendable because India has long underutilised its potential while neighbours fully leveraged theirs,” said Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry vice president Yatin Kakodkar. “Medical tourism is crucial. Goa should pivot to high-value tourism instead of the current model leading to overtourism.”
