Panaji, Nov 19: A significant step towards strengthening Goa’s spiritual tourism landscape was taken with the laying of the foundation for the ‘Gomant Sarita Poojan’, the development of the Ghat Aarti on the banks of the River Mandovi project at Narve. The initiative aims to enhance visitor experiences along the riverbank, creating a meaningful spiritual and cultural space for residents and travellers alike.

The event witnessed the presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, Shri Shripad Naik; Hon’ble Tourism Minister For Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; Member of Parliament Shri Sadanand M. Shet Tanavade; Hon’ble MLA, Mayem, Shri Premendra V. Shet; Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; Chief Engineer,  Shri P. B. Badami; Z.P. Member, Shri Shankar Chodankar; Sarpanch of Narve Village Panchayat, Shri Siddesh Parsekar, along with local leaders, representatives of Communidade: community members and stakeholders.

Hon’ble Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, Shri Shripad Naik expressed confidence in the project’s impact, stating: “Narve holds immense cultural and spiritual potential. The ‘Gomant Sarita Poojan’ project will create a serene space for devotees and visitors, giving a fresh impetus to spiritual tourism. This initiative reflects the growing importance of heritage-led development in Goa.”

Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the project’s alignment with Goa’s broader tourism vision; “Our focus is on creating tourism experiences that strengthen local identity, celebrate culture and support community well-being. The riverfront development at Narve will offer visitors a peaceful spiritual experience while contributing positively to the local economy. Initiatives like these reflect our commitment to fostering regenerative and inclusive tourism across the State.”

MLA, Mayem Shri Premendra Shet highlighted the importance of the riverbank development; “The upcoming Ghat Aarti at Narve will offer a unique devotional experience and open new avenues for community-based tourism. This development will uplift surrounding villages and enhance the area’s cultural appeal,” he said

The ‘Gomant Sarita Poojan’ initiative includes riverbank beautification, dedicated spaces for Aarti, improved access for visitors, and enhanced amenities aligned with Goa’s regenerative tourism approach. The project will support local employment, encourage cultural preservation, and add value to Goa’s growing spiritual tourism sector.