Panaji, Oct 9 (TNN): Goa tourism has begun the tourism season with a bang.

It bagged the Safari India National Tourism Award for 'Best State for Beach & Culture Tourism' for the year 2013.

The award was given at a ceremony in New Delhi last week and received by deputy resident commissioner of Goa in Delhi, Valsala Vijayan.

Dilip Parulekar, minister of tourism, government of Goa, said, "It is a matter of great pride that Goa is being recognized for beaches and culture; and to receive this from the editorial board of an established publication only makes our resolve stronger to make Goa the preferred destination among all tourists, all throughout the year."

In order to develop its coastline, Goa tourism is working towards making the beaches cleaner, safer, beautiful and more secure.

The government of Goa recently approved a proposal to develop infrastructure in some of the most visited beaches like Baga and Calangute. This is part of a bigger plan to boost tourism throughout the year in the state.