Goa MLA Blames ‘Idli-Sambar’ in Beach Shacks for Drop in Foreign Tourists

New Delhi: Goa Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Michael Lobo claimed that the sale of idli-sambar and vada pav in beach shacks is contributing to the decline in international tourist arrivals in the state. Speaking at a press conference in Calangute, Lobo asserted that Goans renting out beach shacks to outsiders has led to changes in the food served, which he believes is driving away foreign visitors.  

“Some people from Bengaluru are serving vada pav, and some are selling idli-sambar. This is why international tourism has been declining in the state for the past two years," Lobo said, according to PTI. However, he did not explain how the popular South Indian dishes are affecting Goa’s tourism industry.  

Tourism Crisis: Who Is to Blame?

Lobo emphasized that the government alone cannot be blamed for the drop in foreign tourists, adding that all stakeholders, including shack owners and tourism operators, must take responsibility. 

He pointed out that while some regular foreign tourists continue to visit, the younger generation of international travelers is opting out of Goa.  

Lobo also highlighted the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, stating that many tourists from Russia and former USSR countries have stopped visiting Goa. Additionally, he raised concerns about unresolved issues between cab aggregators and local tourist taxi operators, warning that if systemic problems are not addressed, Goa’s tourism sector could face ‘dark days.’

“The tourists from former USSR countries have stopped visiting Goa,” he said.

Crackdown on Beach Shacks

Amid growing concerns about Goa’s tourism sector, the state tourism department has issued show-cause notices to 99 beach shacks for violating state policies. 

According to officials, 80 shacks in North Goa and 19 in South Goa were found to be non-compliant with the Goa Shack Policy, which aims to ensure that local Goans benefit from beachside businesses.