Goa tourism industry mulls PR agency help to clean image

Goa tourism industry has proposed taking help of professional public relations (PR) agency to spruce up the tainted image of the state after a spate of crimes against tourists in last couple of years.

"Goa's image has taken a beating of late, because of three negative instances that took place in the state," Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) president Gaurish Dhond
said.

Dhond, who took over the rein of this apex tourism body, said that these instances received worldwide publicity, damaging the fair image of Goa, while 2.5 million tourists, who left the state after a happy and enjoyable holiday did not find any mention at all.

"We have to be more proactive not only for damage control but to put things in their right perspective. A professional PR agency to address this issue is the need of the hour," TTAG chief added.

Dhond took over the charge as TTAG chief from outgoing president Ralph D'Souza in a ceremony held on Friday evening. 

Goa governor Dr SS Sidhu and chief minister Digamber Kamat were also present for the ceremony.

TTAG president said that strict implementation of law and order and justice will avert any such instances in future. 

Goa's tourism saw a downslide after alleged rape on British teenager Scarlet Eden Keeling and few other instances which tarnished the image of the state due to tardy investigation by law enforcing machinery.