Disrespecting the National flag
Independence Day for us Indians is a day to celebrate with the hoisting of the national flag, recitation of our national anthem, singing patriotic songs and organising social and cultural programmes. As Indians, we should keep remembering the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters who fought bravely for our country’s Independence and pay our due respect to them. But sadly, after every Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations, the country’s national flag is strewn on the roads and people keep stamping on them.
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As Indians, we should have respect for our country’s national flag and national anthem. We should also have respect for our national song. When the national anthem is played on radio or aired on television, people don’t stand still and sing it. They keep talking to friends or family members on their mobile phones. Such kind of people who show disrespect for the national flag, song and anthem should be put behind bars.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
Independence Day and current scenario
On the eve of the 73rd Independence Day here is my thought about the true meaning of Independence and freedom. Freedom is a big word that often means little. A map and a flag do not really constitute freedom for the people living within any territory. Every year we celebrate Independence day but nothing approaching true freedom has been obtained yet. Freedom of a nation depends upon the happiness and satisfaction, safety and security of the people living within. Our constitution provides us many rights but to bring those rights into action is another topic to discuss upon.
In the current pandemic situation when the world is facing various problems, economic crisis and a completely changed lifestyle, we as individuals should strive and work hard towards being independent in true manner. Every person should try and be self reliant, use ones talent to contribute towards the upliftment of the nation. This pandemic situation has caused many people fall prey to depression, loneliness and anxiety, getting them out of these sufferings should be our duty. Maintaining a strong bond with families, healthy interpersonal relationships with people around us, being there for each other in times of difficulty are things that will help each other cope with the pandemic. Patriotism is not only singing the national anthem or hoisting the flag, true patriotism during these difficult times can be shown by abiding by the rules set by the government, following safety measures and helping each other in making the state and the nation independent in every way. Only then can one attain the true meaning of Independence.
Zeba Khan Pathan, Navelim
Postpone IFFI on safety grounds
The state government is all set to host the 51st International Film Festival of India this year. Hence the process of film selection in feature and non-feature sections has been started. However, taking into consideration the ever-increasing cases of Covid-19 positive cases in different parts of the state, the above notion of holding the film extravaganza seems quite awkward and unwarranted. Not only our Goan brothers and sisters, but even tourists visiting the state are likely to catch this deadly virus in the process. It is rather doubtful whether the prescribed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) rules would be strictly followed by the visitors during the 10-day film festival.
There is every possibility of the virus spreading like anything in case wearing of masks, social distancing and other norms are overlooked at any instance. With the Goans already facing the worst sufferings in their day to day lives due to the ongoing pandemic, it would be appropriate for the state government to postpone the IFFI celebration scheduled this year. What counts more is the health and well-being of precious human lives. Hence the state government should assure safety to the citizens by postponing the IFFI if not cancelling the same altogether.
Pravin U Sardessai, Adpai
Govt must re-start mining
The disastrous situation hit me as soon as the mine closed. What should I do next?
As soon as I completed my graduation in 2008, my college professor came to me with an advertisement published in a newspaper on the opening of a job in the reputed world class mining industry. Along with me other 5 graduates were interviewed, but I was fortunate to be selected in the organization.
I knew that Goa is gifted with an important resource namely iron ore, which contributes to the socio-economic development of our state. And being a chemistry student, I grabbed this opportunity and was appointed as a chemist in the chemical laboratory. To upgrade my skills and competencies, I completed my post-graduate course through distance education. Considering my skills and capabilities, the company gave me various platforms to excel and grow in my career with wide experience as a chemist, quality controller, auditor, process controller, jetty operations etc. My family depends on me and I have only one source of income from the mines where I am employed. But now this mining crisis has left me and my parents unsound, now where do I have to use my skills, my abilities, and my gained experience?
I inquired about job opportunities in pharmaceuticals and other industries, but no one is showing interest in hiring me for my mining experience and they prefer freshers. It is very difficult to find another employment, and to survive in this competitive world and meet my family needs.
I lost my 12 years! What was my fault? Why are my development and dreams shattered? The government will have to restart mining or give a government job in the coming days to avoid an unpleasant incident for my family.
Suhel Krishna Narvekar, Quepem
