BJP MLA Michael Lobo has sparked controversy by claiming that the sale of South Indian food like idli-sambar and vada pav in Goa’s beach shacks is contributing to the decline in international tourist footfall in the state.
Speaking at a press conference in Calangute, North Goa, Lobo stated, “Some people from Bengaluru are serving vada pav, some are selling idli-sambar. This is why international tourism has been declining in Goa for the past two years.” However, he did not elaborate on how these food choices impact foreign tourist arrivals.
Foreign Tourists Avoiding Goa?
Lobo pointed out that while some regular foreign visitors continue to come, the state is seeing a notable drop in younger international tourists. He urged the tourism department and stakeholders to analyze the reasons behind the decline.
Additionally, he cited ongoing global conflicts as a key factor, stating that Russian and Ukrainian tourists, who form a significant chunk of Goa’s foreign visitors, have stopped coming due to the war.
Goa’s Tourism Crisis: More Than Just Food?
The MLA stressed that Goa needs to address bigger issues affecting tourism, including:
Disputes between cab aggregators and local taxi operators
Lack of structured policies for international tourism
Dwindling interest from younger foreign travelers
“If we don’t put a proper system in place, we will see dark days in the tourism sector,” Lobo warned.
