Team Herald
PANJIM: Addressing the event at Goa IT Day, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar got candid on his health issue when asked how he waded through the difficult times in the recent past.
“I am a very optimistic person. I have strong views and I do what I decide. The most important was the strength and love which I received from the people of our State. It was not only in Goa but good wishes and get well soon messages came from all across India. I am sure their prayers helped me. That was a major strength for me,” Parrikar told Shraddha Sharma founder and CEO of YourStory who was moderating a discussion.
Gauging Parrikar’s mood, Mohandas Pai co-founder of Infosys who is now helping Goa to bring it in the IT map of India, quipped saying, “You had India on a platter. You were one of the best Defence Minister India had but your heart was here in Goa and you always wanted to come back here. What is so special about Goa for you?”
Parrikar replied, “I was asked to go to Delhi and I did my job pretty well in Delhi and I am satisfied with it.”
During my tenure as a Defence Minister we launched a “Make in India” programme. We also re-introduced Tejas fighter aircraft. I also ensured that a couple of helicopters were developed. But the most important event during my tenure was the surgical strikes which required political decision with the support of Prime Minister. So, I have done my duty diligently. Probably Goa owed to Delhi for its support during its fight for its liberation. I think I paid back the debt. My heart is always in Goa.”
The Chief Minister added that Goa was only known as a tourist destination.
“For tourism sector, we do not need to market much. Goa being such a small place has produced talent much beyond the expectations. This exists for IT also. Opportunities are now required in Goa. We have to reverse the brain drain from Goa and my target would be that our talents stay within the State and develop the eco system which includes industry and IT sector with a positive mindset.”
