Goa’s Casino Cash Cow: ₹1,661 Crore Raked in Over Five Years

Goa’s casino industry, a cornerstone of its tourism-driven economy, has funneled ₹1,661.27 crore into state coffers through annual recurring fees (ARF) from 2021 to 2025, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant revealed in the state assembly on Tuesday. Responding to BJP MLA Michael Lobo, Sawant provided a detailed breakdown: ₹186.35 crore in 2021-22, ₹353.78 crore in 2022-23, ₹603.76 crore in 2023-24, ₹132.52 crore from April 2024 to February 2025, and ₹384.85 crore from March to July 10, 2025. The figures reflect a 70% revenue surge in 2023-24, driven by three new onshore casino licenses, bringing the total to 15 land-based and six offshore casinos on the Mandovi River.

Despite the financial windfall, the industry faces scrutiny. Sawant disclosed that 10 casino operators owe ₹352.44 crore in unpaid dues, some dating back to 2018, with non-operational casinos like La Calypso Hotels (₹102.11 crore) and Trade Wings Hotels (₹82.7 crore) among the top defaulters. The state has issued show-cause notices to recover these arrears, with the Supreme Court allowing partial payments for COVID-affected periods.

The government is also exploring relocating offshore casinos from the Mandovi River, a contentious issue due to traffic congestion and local opposition. Sawant noted that the Captain of Ports Department is identifying alternative sites, though no timeline was specified. Critics, including Congress MLA Carlos Ferreira, argue the government’s delay in relocation—despite promises since 2019—reflects reliance on casino revenue, which also supports allied sectors like hotels and transport, generating over ₹1,000 crore annually in taxes.

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Goa’s casino sector, governed by the Goa Public Gambling Act, 1976, remains a political flashpoint. While Sawant defends its economic value, social groups demand closure, citing gambling’s social impact. With plans for a Gaming Commissioner and stricter regulations, the state aims to balance revenue with oversight.

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