ADDRESSING PROBLEMS OF ADVENTURE TOURISM IN GOA– THE POLICYMAKER’S PERSPECTIVES

Abstract: Goa is an excellent destination for adventure tourism. It reflects the spirit of adventure and a lot of scope awaits adventure tourism. Adventure Tourism developed in Goa because of its economic potential; also Goa offers excellent scope for adventure activities due to its abundant availability of favourable natural conditions. However, Adventure tourism is yet to realize its full potential. The state of affairs for adventure tourism is definitely not very positive but Goa has the potential to make it one of the best offerings in this country. There are some key issues that need to be addressed. Government needs to take direct interest in the development of Adventure tourism within the State. Government needs to identify various adventure tourism activities to be taken up at various destinations and provide financial assistance for their development. There is a need to address critical issues of protecting the natural environment; protecting tourist from potential risks; and protecting long term market share through better understanding of adventure customer’s needs and wants. If these issues are addressed now, it will help to provide long term and sustainable future for this sector of the tourism industry. In the back drop of the above discussion it is clear that tourism plays an important part in Goa’s economy. This research paper explores problems in tourism policy making from the perspectives of policy makers. This paper highlights Problems of Adventure Tourism in Goa from the Policy Maker Perspective.