Need to control
cholera
This is in reference to a report appearing in O Heraldo edition dated September 25 ‘Over 20 new cholera cases emerge…’ Today people are aware of the fact that cholera is an extremely virulent disease transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
Now, weeks have passed since the first cholera case was reported at Cutbona, yet the cases keep on rising. As reported, the cholera outbreak has already claimed the lives of five persons. It is alarming to read such reports in Goa, which is a popular destination for international and domestic tourists. If there is a will, there’s a way. If not contained in time, it could lead to an epidemic.
Cholera can easily be controlled and treated as well. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is the need of the hour to control cholera in those villages to reduce deaths. What is required from the health authorities is a strict surveillance of the cholera-prone areas, improving the basic sanitation facilities, providing safe water, good hygiene and timely treatment.
Rui Pereira, Navelim
Enhance doctors’ security
Close on the heels of the recent agitation over the safety and security of doctors following the Kolkata rape and murder of a post-graduate student doctor, a case of a patient allegedly misbehaving and manhandling a doctor at the casualty ward of the Goa Medical College and Hospital at Bambolim has come to light.
The patient was reportedly found by the roadside in an inebriated state. Such violence against the medical fraternity is unacceptable as it compromises the quality of care and puts healthcare provision at risk.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Goa has demanded strict Central laws and action on the violence against doctors to ensure that the culprits are arrested immediately.
The Prevention of Violence against Healthcare Professionals and Clinical Establishments Bill, 2022 needs to be implemented. It is learnt that to ensure the safety of doctors, the government is implementing crucial changes at GMC, including the installation of security cameras and revising laws to better protect doctors.
The government may promulgate an ordinance or bring in a bill in the next Assembly session aiming at the safety of medical staff in government and private hospitals.
The safety of those who dedicate their lives to save the lives of others is vital. Despite all these steps, the misbehaviour and alleged manhandling of a doctor at the casualty ward of GMC comes as a shocker and calls for enhanced security for the members of the medical profession.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
10 years of
Make in India
As India celebrates 10 years of Make in India, Goa stands tall with its remarkable strides toward an Atmanirbhar Bharat, thanks to Swayampurna Goa.
From empowering women self-help groups to revolutionising agriculture, horticulture, and fisheries, Goa’s journey towards self-reliance is inspiring.
The Kamdhenu Scheme has boosted dairy production, with traditional farmers reaping the benefits.
Goa is even cultivating strawberries, a sweet outcome of transformative agricultural initiatives. Another milestone was the Chaturthi e-Bazaar, where women SHGs showcased homemade sweets and matoli, a vibrant display of empowerment. And who can forget the pink e-rickshaws, offering a new avenue for women entrepreneurs?
Goa’s success stories deserve to be shared. This movement isn’t just about self-reliance; it’s about building stronger and resilient communities. As we say, ‘Vocal for Local’, every step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swayampurna Goa strengthens our economy and spirit. Let’s celebrate and support these triumphs.
Vaman Shyam Sankhalker, Harvalem
Double gold at
Chess Olympiad
Indian chess has achieved an extraordinary milestone by winning a ‘double gold’ at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary.
The momentous occasion marks the first time that India has won gold in this prestigious tournament and the victory highlights the nation’s growing prominence in global chess.
Over the years, the Indian chess community has gone from strength to strength, with players emerging as strong competitors on the world stage.
India’s rise in global chess rankings has been marked by the rise of these talented youngsters who have shown a great understanding of the game and a strong commitment to improving their skills.
The ‘double gold’ win is a solid proof that more youngsters will be inspired to take up chess and aim for the top at the global level. The achievement at Budapest has sent a strong message that India has become a powerhouse in world chess, capable of defeating the best of teams globally.
Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai
‘Goa get rabies
free of cost’
I suggest the Goa government change its rabies notice from ‘Goa Free from Rabies’ to ‘Goa get rabies free of cost’.
On my visits to the prominent Colva Beach, not only has the number of dogs increased in the past few months, but I have noticed quite a few pups that have just been littered! So what has happened to the sterilisation campaign!
At an earlier Colva gram sabha (sometime last year), I recall that a Colva resident offered to do it free of cost as a public service and all he needed was official approvals with some space! The Colva Panchayat as well as its related government depts/ministers seems to be sleeping on the issue! The only area they are super efficient at is to issue licenses to big hotels and many swimming pools; against the carrying capacity of the village!
Are Goa Chief Minister, Tourism Minister, Health Minister, Panchayat Minister, Health Dept, etc, waiting for another health emergency like for example the cholera/dengue surge at Cutbona, before they in a reactive mode take some action?
Arwin Mesquita, Colva