Goa Unveils Ambitious Plan to Become Global Wellness Destination
In a significant move to position Goa as a premier global hub for holistic wellness, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced comprehensive government support for nature-friendly wellness initiatives during the inauguration of the first India International Ayurveda and Wellness Expo and Summit 2026 in Panaji.
New Policy Framework for Wellness Development
The Chief Minister unveiled the groundbreaking Goa Wellness Ayurveda and Yoga Policy 2026, marking a strategic shift in the state's approach to healthcare and tourism. This policy framework represents a conscious effort to shape Goa's identity beyond its traditional sun, sand, and sea attractions toward becoming a recognized global wellness destination.
"Goa is already known globally for its natural beauty, biodiversity and spiritual harmony, but today we are consciously shaping Goa's identity as a global wellness destination," Sawant emphasized during his address.
Comprehensive Government Support for Stakeholders
The government has committed to providing substantial support across multiple sectors to achieve this vision:
- Nature-friendly wellness projects that respect Goa's land, forests, coastline and cultural heritage
- Ayurveda-based research and innovation initiatives
- Skill development training centers for wellness practitioners
- Wellness tourism infrastructure development
Sawant assured stakeholders, practitioners, researchers, investors and entrepreneurs of the government's commitment to creating an enabling environment for wellness businesses to thrive in Goa.
Annual State-Sponsored Wellness Event
The India International Ayurveda and Wellness Expo and Summit will become an annual state-sponsored event organized in collaboration with the Goa Council for Ayurveda and allied institutions. This initiative aims to encourage all Ayush practitioners to establish wellness practices in Goa and showcase the state's growing capabilities in holistic healthcare.
"So many people come to Goa for sun, sand and sea. Many globally are already coming in for wellness, and we have to tap them," the Chief Minister noted, highlighting the untapped potential in wellness tourism.
Focus on Preventive Healthcare and Employment Generation
The wellness initiative extends beyond tourism to address broader healthcare and economic objectives:
- Preventive Healthcare: The Expo focuses on reducing additional expenditure in the health sector by promoting preventive measures and healthy lifestyles
- Integrated Treatment: Emphasis on integrated approaches that can help cure diseases including cancer through holistic methods
- Employment Generation: The growing network of Ayush centers across Goa is creating significant employment opportunities in the state
"Wellness tourism is eco-friendly, people-centric and sustainable, and respects our land, forests, coastline and culture," Sawant explained, highlighting the alignment between wellness development and environmental conservation.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Approach
The wellness policy emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, ensuring that development respects Goa's natural assets while creating economic opportunities. This approach positions wellness tourism as a model for sustainable development that benefits both residents and visitors while preserving the state's ecological balance.
The initiative represents a strategic pivot toward value-added tourism that leverages Goa's existing strengths while creating new economic opportunities in the growing global wellness industry.
