Casinos in Goa
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Goa is one of the few states in India where both onshore and offshore casinos are legally permitted,[1] making it a prominent destination for gaming enthusiasts. Goa has a unique blend of coastals and nightlife, which has been an prime reason for the success of the casino industry, contributing significantly to its tourism and economy.[2]
The setup of the casinos was controversial as live gambling is outlawed in India.[3] This was partially circumvented by hosting it off the mainland. The government in Goa is promoting offshore casino [4] ships by granting new licences to more companies in an attempt to generate more tourist related revenue. Goa and Sikkim are the only two territories in India that permits casinos.
Legal framework
[edit]Under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act, 1976,[5] casinos are allowed to operate within five-star hotels and on offshore vessels, subject to government licensing and regulation. This legal framework has enabled the establishment of various casinos, both land-based and floating, primarily along the Mandovi River and in luxury resorts. Manohar Parrikar granted permanent licenses to casinos in 2014.[6][7]
Casinos on land
[edit]Goa has casinos and gambling establishments on land as well. These establishments are mostly found in Star Hotels. These would be smaller venues which could serve the guests of the hotels and may not be able to accommodatae large audiences. Almost every land casino in Goa operate with the same tariffs, slightly varying between one another based on the choice or menu or seasonality. Notable casinos are Deltin Zuri in Varca, Deltin Suites (Casino Hotel), Majestic Paradise (Casino Hotel), Paradise Casinos and Big B Casino.
Offshore casinos
[edit]
Offshore casinos can be seen in the Mandovi River of Panjim. The anchored cruise liners that are stationed in the river, which serves as a place to host the casinos. There are smaller boats, called feeder boats which are used to bring people on board and off board the casinos. These casinos are priced higher compared to the land ones, as the offshore ones include the feeder boats and are considered an experience.
Few notable offshore casinos include Deltin JAQK, Deltin Royale and King's Casino which are operated by Delta Corp, Majestic Pride and Casino Pride which are operated by Pride Group and Big Daddy Casino.
Economic impact
[edit]The casino industry in Goa significantly contributes to the state's revenue and employment.[8] In the fiscal year 2012–2013, casinos contributed approximately ₹135 crores to the state revenue. The industry also plays a vital role in promoting tourism, attracting visitors from across India and abroad.
References
[edit]- ^ Newspaper, India Post (2025-02-20). "Understanding India's Casino Industry: Growth, Challenges, and Prospects - IndiaPost NewsPaper". Retrieved 2025-05-16.
- ^ "Casinos take strong roots in Goa as middle class tourism grows". India Today. 2018-06-28. Retrieved 2025-05-16.
- ^ "Why Goa doesn't want Goans in its casinos". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2025-05-16.
- ^ "New rules for Goa casinos soon, says CM Pramod Sawant during Budget speech". The Economic Times. 2023-03-30. ISSN 0013-0389. Retrieved 2025-05-16.
- ^ "The Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976" (PDF). www.goa.gov.in.
- ^ "After Fighting Against Goa's Casinos, Parrikar Gives Them What They Want". The Wire. Retrieved 21 May 2025.
- ^ Team, DNA Web. "Casinos are now 'fait accompli' of Goa govt: Manohar Parrikar". DNA India. Retrieved 21 May 2025.
- ^ "Casinos have provided jobs, revenue, says Parrikar". The Times of India. 2017-07-21. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2025-05-16.