The Town Square project will span 11,000 square metres and incorporate a variety of features such as a market court, welcome court, fountain court, movie court, heritage court, an Ashoka Stambh, and a clock tower. Designed as a year-round community hub, the Town Square aims to create opportunities for local artisans and cultural entrepreneurs to exhibit their skills while promoting Porvorim as a tourist attraction.
Khaunte extended his thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Goa’s Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant for their unwavering support. “The Town Square will open new doors for artists and cultural entrepreneurs, providing a contemporary venue steeped in Goan heritage,” he remarked.
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Goa Tourism minister Rohan Khaunte (C) during the launch of the ₹120.97 crore Town Square project in Porvorim.
Out of the total ₹120.97 crore allocated, ₹90.74 crore will be contributed by the Central Government, while the State Government will provide ₹35.32 crore. The project is slated for completion by March 2026.
In addition to the Town Square, other projects were introduced including the beautification of Porvorim Creek and the establishment of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum at Farmagudi. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enrich Goa’s cultural tourism experience.
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Khaunte additionally announced funding approval for the Porvorim-to-Harvalem Rural Circuit under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme. This includes the enhancement of Torda Creek, Malim Jetty, Virlosa, Pomburpa spring, and the spiritual Gomant Sarita Poojan in Narve, linking it to the Ekadasha Teertha venture. Furthermore, redevelopment efforts for Colva are in progress under the coastal component of the same initiative.
Responding to media inquiries, Khaunte clarified that there is no prohibition on visiting waterfalls or destinations popular during the monsoon. “Visitor safety remains a top priority,” he emphasized, adding that coordination with the Forest Department and the Goa Forest Development Corporation is ongoing to ensure safe access.
He also urged responsible communication regarding Goa’s tourism image, highlighting efforts to promote “Monsoon Tourism” and expand perceptions beyond the state’s famed beaches. “The world knows about Goa and Goans—‘amka bhivpachi garaj na’. But yes, we need to make some adjustments,” he admitted, encouraging the media to take a proactive role in addressing issues such as unregulated taxis and touting.
Over the past three years, nearly ₹400 crore in tourism infrastructure projects have been approved for Goa, aiming to draw quality tourists through eco-tourism, adventure tourism, MICE, and wellness initiatives.
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu sent her greetings to the people of Goa on Statehood Day, emphasizing the significance of sustainable tourism. “Warm greetings to the people of Goa on Statehood Day! Goa’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, warm hospitality, and various attractions continue to entice visitors from around the globe,” the President expressed on X (formerly Twitter).
Warm greetings to the people of Goa on Statehood Day! Goa’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, warm hospitality, and several other attractions continue to draw visitors from across the world. Tourists and residents should come together to preserve Goa’s culture and…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 30, 2025
She further urged both tourists and residents to support the preservation of the state’s cultural legacy. “Tourists and residents should unite to safeguard Goa’s culture and heritage by adopting sustainable tourism practices and supporting local communities,” she noted, adding, “May the state of Goa continue to prosper and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.”
In summary, the government’s ambitious development agenda and the President’s call for responsible tourism highlight a collective effort to solidify Goa’s growth as a comprehensive and heritage-rich destination.
