Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Girish Chodankar has said he received a positive assurance from the Tamil Nadu Government for the establishment of a Goa Niwas at Velankanni, a long-standing demand aimed at providing affordable accommodation for Goan pilgrims visiting the famous Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health.
According to a statement issued by the GPCC, Chodankar raised the proposal during a meeting with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay Joseph in the presence of Congress MLA and Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar (Killiyoor). The meeting primarily focused on strengthening coordination among alliance partners and enhancing cooperation through a Common Minimum Programme, while also addressing issues concerning the people of Goa.
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During the discussions, Chodankar highlighted the difficulties faced by lakhs of Goan devotees who travel to Velankanni each year and urged the Tamil Nadu Government to allot suitable land for the construction of a dedicated Goa Niwas. He said the facility would provide safe, affordable and convenient accommodation for pilgrims and fulfil a long-pending demand of Goa’s Catholic community.
The GPCC claimed that the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister responded positively to the proposal, agreeing in principle to the project and directing Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar to begin the process of identifying suitable land. As an interim arrangement, the Chief Minister also assured that the Tamil Nadu Government would explore providing accommodation for Goan pilgrims through Tamil Nadu Tourism until the Goa Niwas is established.
Expressing gratitude for the assurance, Chodankar said the positive response reflected cooperation between Congress-led governments and reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing the project until it is completed.
“I sincerely thank Hon’ble Chief Minister Vijay Joseph for his prompt and positive response. I am confident that, with sustained follow-up, the long-cherished dream of establishing a Goa Niwas at Velankanni will become a reality, benefiting lakhs of Goan devotees,” Chodankar said.
He added that the Congress remains committed to addressing public concerns through constructive engagement and effective governance.
