Mixed reaction to new district proposal
AMRESH PARAB
MARCEL, AUG 29
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat’s recent announcement to consider a separate district for Ponda taluka and nearby areas has evoked mixed reactions in the taluka.
Claiming that a small state like Goa did not need three districts, former minister Dr Kashinath Jalmi felt that a third district would put further financial burden on the exchequer.
“We already have two districts in the north and south. Goa is a small state and it would not be advisable to have a third district,” said Dr Jalmi.
“It will only increase the financial burden on the exchequer. We would need more manpower and hence more government jobs, a new building for the office of the collector and many other expenses.”
“I don’t think the formation of a new district would benefit people in an around Ponda taluka,” he added.
Former Ponda mayor and sitting councillor, Sanjay Naik, has, however, welcomed the move to create a new district, claiming that it would benefit people and promote development of the region.
“It will indeed help the populace to a great extent and will save time travelling to North Goa Collectorate in Panjim. Development wise, regions coming under third district will also benefit. Being a third district, more funds will be available for developmental activities,” said Naik.
Shiv Sena has also welcomed the idea for having third district in Ponda. North Goa Shiv Sena unit chief Damu Naik said: “We are supporting the idea for having the third district, as it will help people and administrative work for the people will easy.”
Adv Narendra Savoikar said though the idea is good, but it has to come into force.
“No doubt having a third district will benefit people, but it has to come into practice. Just making announcements is of no use, unless and until it comes into effect. Ponda taluka has a unique identity and also a culture rich area, having a third district will surely help.”
Sources in district administration said once the third district is announced, then a separate building will be required. The present government administrative building at Tisk-Ponda won’t suffice.
“Additional staff will have to be recruited. The third district could have two more talukas included and it will be up to the government to decide which areas should be included in the new district. Having a third district will also help in fund allocation. Works pertaining to land conversions, licences, allotment of government land and many other works will be done in one place if third district comes into force,” said sources.
