Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that the state will be developed into India’s foremost “Living Laboratory” for sustainable architecture. This declaration was made during the initiation of the National Conference on Goan Architecture & Sustainability in New Delhi, where he was accompanied by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade. The event, organised by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC), aimed to unite leading architects, urban planners, engineers, and policymakers to transform approaches to sustainable urban design.

CM Sawant highlighted the importance of integrating heritage with modern technology, referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s principles of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”. He underlined that Goa is set on a course to merge age-old heritage insights with contemporary green technologies to offer climate-responsive infrastructure. “We are committed to demonstrating that tradition and innovation can coexist to create a resilient and ecologically responsible state”, he articulated.

Focus on Heritage and Sustainability

During his address, the Chief Minister reiterated the conference’s objective to convene various experts and stakeholders to discuss future sustainable development rooted in Goa’s rich architectural legacy. He stated that discussions would encompass conservation and urban sustainability, while asserting the government’s dedication to advancing both heritage conservation and development concurrently.

CM Sawant remarked, “The conference serves as a platform to elevate Goan architecture and sustainability, enhancing dialogue among national-level architects and urban development planners.” He emphasised that the efforts aim to promote Goa on a national front while echoing the Prime Minister’s vision of harmonising heritage with development.

He further indicated that the state is focused on implementing nature-friendly infrastructure solutions. This approach aims to generate collaboration and ideas at a national level, fortifying Goa’s position in the architectural arena.

Transforming Tourism Through Sustainable Practices

CM Sawant also pointed out the evolving dynamics of tourism in Goa. He noted that the state is observing a shift in tourist interests beyond its well-known beaches and churches. Recently, there has been a surge in interest in spiritual, sports, and wellness tourism, motivating the state to expand its tourism offerings while prioritising sustainability in its developmental framework.

He commented, “Visitors previously came mainly for beaches and churches, but today there is a growing demand for experiences in spiritual, sports, and wellness sectors. The government is actively promoting several national-level programmes focused on sports tourism.” The Chief Minister stressed that sustainability remains a crucial element in the state’s tourism development.

CM Sawant concluded by mentioning ongoing discussions with other states and countries to further enhance Goa’s sustainable tourism initiatives. He reiterated that the alignment of Goan architecture with sustainable practices is of paramount importance as the state seeks to forge its path in evolving tourist interests.

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