MAM
Goa crowned India’s best romantic destination at Travel + Leisure awards
NEW DELHI: Goa has done it again. India’s most free-spirited state has been named Best Romantic Destination at the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025, sealing its status as the country’s most enduring love affair with travellers.
The award was presented on December 16 at a glittering ceremony at Nandiya Gardens, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, and received on behalf of the department of tourism, government of Goa, by Swati Prabhu Shastri, currently posted at Goa Sadan on deputation from the education department.
The citation celebrates Goa’s intoxicating mix of sun-washed beaches, intimate hospitality, living culture and an easy marriage of luxury with languor—an allure that continues to set hearts racing.
Reacting to the win, tourism minister Rohan A. Khaunte called it “a proud moment for Goa”, adding that the state’s appeal runs deeper than scenery. “Goa offers experiences rooted in culture, warmth and authenticity,” he said. “Our focus is firmly on regenerative tourism, where romance, leisure and sustainability move together and benefit local communities.”
Tourism director Kedar Naik said the recognition reflected sustained work on the ground.
“From heritage stays and wellness retreats to immersive cultural experiences and responsible tourism initiatives, Goa is evolving without losing its soul,” he said.
Now in its 14th year, Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards is one of the industry’s most keenly watched barometers of travel excellence, spanning destinations, hotels and hospitality leaders.
For couples and curious travellers alike, Goa continues to deliver: beachfront hideaways, heritage quarters, lush hinterlands, wellness and spiritual circuits, and carefully curated luxury stays.
Celebration or solitude, buzz or bliss—Goa still knows how to strike the balance.
In a crowded tourism market, the message is clear. Goa is not just a destination. It is a mood—and romance is very much in season.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
