Goa Tourism Department clarifies use of dolphin image in promotional material for WTM London 2024

In a clarification issued on Wednesday, Goa's Department of Tourism stated the use of a dolphin shown in the promotional materials for the World Travel Mart (WTM) 2024 event in London was intended as a 'symbolic representation' to showcase Goa's 'vibrant' marine life and coastal beauty.

"It was not meant to indicate any specific species, including the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin or any other species native to Goan waters. We acknowledge this oversight and regret any confusion it may have caused," stated the tourism department and added that it 'deeply appreciates' the feedback from ecologists and community members.



The clarifications come following concerns expressed by ecologists that the promotional materials depicted the wrong species of dolphin, and not the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, which is residential to Goa's waters.

"The Department remains committed to accurately representing Goa’s natural heritage in all communications and will take extra care in future promotional efforts to avoid similar misunderstandings," Goa's Department of Tourism said in a statement on Wednesday.

The department also stated that it would like to expresses its gratitude to well-wishers for bringing this matter to its attention.