Case study of Baga beach

         Baga beach then vs now 


In the past, Baga Beach was not just a tourist attraction but also a favorite spot for locals. While tourism is expected to benefit the local Goan community, our observations during our DST project revealed a different reality. We noticed that very few local Goans were present on the beach, and most shacks and businesses were run by outsiders. This raises an important question who truly benefits from tourism at Baga Beach? 


Impact on Local Goans

Tourism should ideally support the local community, but at Baga Beach, the major financial benefits seem to go to outsiders. Instead of owning businesses, many Goans now work in lower-paying jobs such as cleaners, waiters, or staff in hotels and shacks. The opportunities for them to grow in the tourism industry are limited, as large-scale business investments are made by non-Goans.

This situation has raised concerns about the sustainability of local livelihoods. If the trend continues, Goans might find it even harder to compete in their own land, leading to further economic imbalance. 


Why Are Fewer Goans Visiting Baga?


One of the biggest observations from our DST project was the absence of local Goans on the beach. A few decades ago, Baga was a popular hangout spot for Goans. Today, their presence has significantly reduced.


A major reason for this is the commercialization of the beach. With outsiders running businesses, prices of food, drinks, and services have gone up. The high costs make it difficult for locals to visit frequently. What was once an affordable and enjoyable place for Goans has now become a luxury destination catering mostly to tourists.




Another reason is the changing crowd dynamics. Many Goans feel that the beach no longer has the same charm or sense of belonging. With businesses prioritizing tourist preferences, the local culture is slowly fading away from Baga Beach

For Baga Beach to benefit both tourists and locals, a balance needs to be maintained. Here are a few possible solutions :

Encouraging local entrepreneurship, Government policies can help Goans set up and sustain their businesses on the beach.

Fair employment opportunities that is locals should have access to better-paying jobs in the tourism sector.

Affordable tourism Prices should be regulated so that Goans do not feel excluded from their own beaches.

Promoting responsible tourism  tourists should respect local culture, ensuring that their presence benefits rather than harms the community.


Baga Beach has always been a symbol of Goa’s vibrant tourism, but the question remains who is truly gaining from it? The future of Baga Beach depends on whether locals can reclaim their space and whether tourism can become more inclusive. If these issues are addressed, Baga Beach can once again be a place where both Goans and visitors can coexist in harmony.



Arya Dhamaskar
2402011






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