Tourism and a village in transition: A sociological study of Agonda, South Goa

Abstract

Agonda, a coastal village with crystal clear beaches, used to be a quiet and secluded village till the early 90s. Few tourists visited the village until it became a beaming tourist destination with the development of five-star hotels, beach shacks, homestays, entertainment clubs, and multi-cuisine restaurants. As a flourishing industry in Goa, tourism has exposed the local population to many new changes in their lifestyle, jobs, entertainment, social relationships, cultural transitions, political leadership, and economic stability. This article aims to examine the impact of tourism on the livelihood of Agonda Villagers in Canacona, Goa. The article also evaluates the changing occupation structure and occupational mobility in Agonda due to the tourism industry. Therefore, the foremost focus is on the transition of the village. The article has used participant observation and case article methods to collect data on the lived experiences of the villagers. The article revealed a shift from traditional occupations to exposure to a modernized job market, bringing emancipation and empowerment in the lives of local villagers. The transitions are seen in the lives of the local population based on the caste system. The article found that tourism impacts the Economy, Society, Culture, and Politics in the Agonda village.