GL responds: Hi Philip, Thanks for your input of yesterday. You seem to suggest that when the December numbers come in, the annual figures may be higher? :=))
Either way, since you are 'keeping your hand on the pulse' of revenues from tourism and especially from the two events, (SFX and IFFI) perhaps you can update us on the facts. As I said, it is always a pleasure to read some factual information on Goa. Like you say, one should be "not so fast" to claim success. By the same token: Is the corollary not true? Should Goans be quick in claiming failures / fiascos by individuals or the government without even asking / seeking basic information? Can Goa's news-reporters and professional-writers take a lead and make a New Year's resolution to compose fact-backed / stated opinions in cyber-Goa? This is not directed at anyone but hopefully will be the first step in a road for all of us, Goenkars. IMHO, being 'disparaging is a poor substitute for ignorance'. Regards, GL. Philip Thomas: Not so fast! The Seminar issue is dated NOVEMBER 2004. Hence the material predates IFFI/SFX. The estimate of a Rs 500 cr increase in tourist FX earnings over the "average" figure of previous years (not the actual for 2003-04) may be based on projected increases in tourist arrivals in Goa based perhaps on international trends etc. It would be premature to ascribe the increase in FX earnings to IFFI/SFX and conclude about good ROI from it. Gilbert Lawrence, Dec 27]: Can someone tell us why the 500 crore INCREASE in foreign exchange THIS fiscal year? And how much has translated into increased state tax receipts? This 500 crore (increase) is into Goa's local economy spent by tourists' consumers at the retail level. And of course this does not include the tourist expenditures by Indians / non-foreigners who visit Goa. They are reported / estimated to be 60% of Goa's tourists. We are told this year, IFFI and SFX exposition cost the Goa government 125 crore (75 + 50). By my calculations, and I hope the accountants come to the same conclusions, that is some pretty good 'return on investment' for native Goans. Please educate me otherwise. I am all ears.