EP-239 | Goa Tourism, 'Taxi Mafia', Casino Culture, Rave Parties & More | Rohan Khaunte

A post on Twitter claiming that foreigners are 'avoiding' Goa due to 'bad services and treatment' has put the state government under scrutiny. Many blame Goa’s 'Taxi Mafia,' which charges high fares due to the lack of private app-based cab services. Some criticize the dirty beaches and the attitude of overcharging both domestic and foreign tourists. Many also argue that Goa is overpriced, and tourists can visit Thailand, Vietnam, or Sri Lanka on the same budget, where they offer a better and more pleasant stay.

Is this the reality, or is there more to the story? In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte addresses all queries about tourism, including whether foreigners are abandoning Goa. He also discusses issues like drug trafficking, rave parties, and the casino culture in Goa.

00:00 - Introduction

01:41 - Goa Tourism in Trouble?

08:04 - Agenda Against Goa Tourism?

12:30 - 'Taxi Mafia' in Goa

19:22 - Commuters' Concerns in Goa

22:40 - Goa's Filthy Beaches

26:11 - Stray Dogs and Cattle on Beaches

28:24 - Fewer ATMs in Goa

30:45 - Power Cuts in Goa

32:44 - Goa's Road Infrastructure

35:20 - Is Goa an Expensive Tourist Destination?

37:25 - Chikhal Kalo Festival

42:20 - IFFI 2024

47:05 - Drug Trafficking in Goa

50:17 - Goan Culture

54:58 - Diversifying Goa's Economy

59:40 - Casinos in Goa

1:03:02 - Mopa vs. Dabolim Airport