Does Goa really need
a private university?
A growing movement of locals, including some prominent Gaunkars are reportedly uniting in opposition to the proposed establishment of a private university on comunidade land in the village of Tivim.
The villagers argue that the project could threaten their environment, infrastructure and heritage. There is the fear among locals that other projects like hotels will follow in the wake of the university which could turn the village into a concrete jungle. The natural ecosystems and the hills surrounding the area will be vulnerable to soil erosion and deforestation.
The project will also put a strain on the village infrastructure including sewage systems, waste management and the availability of water and electricity. Widening of roads will mean demolishing the compound walls of several houses. The villagers have also called for a special gram sabha to address the issue publicly.
Be that as it may, the question that arises is whether Goa is really in need of a private university that will occupy 2 lakh square meters of pristine land when the existing infrastructure at the Goa University can be improved. It is learnt that the state government has received proposals for four private universities to establish their campuses in Goa. The government has reportedly stressed on the potential of the private universities and their capability to create job opportunities while offering wider educational options. However, whether private universities will ultimately benefit Goan students is debatable.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Clarity on health
insurance cover
The Union cabinet approved Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Bima Yojna on September 11. This covers all senior citizens above 70 yrs of age for free irrespective of income. The scheme also covers family for Rs 5 lakh. Now, the scheme has been launched. But it is not clear as to how it works. It is not clear if one has to register with Health Department or panchayat in case of village or it is based on electoral roll or election list . The scheme is launched to cover 4.5 crores families and 6 cr senior citizens with distinct card.
Today we have many insurance companies issuing health policies and give cashless facilities if treatment is taken in private hospitals if covered in the network. The government scheme has to be clear as to how one can know that he or family is covered in the said scheme and also important to inform the senior citizens and family about the procedure and how they will be able to take benefit of the same.
The government should also clarify if the treatment taken in government or district hospitals will be part of the scheme.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco
Middle East is closer
than ever to-all-out war
As expected, a typically belligerent Israel is mounting all efforts to inflict damage on Hezbollah in Lebanon, even defying the US. Israel's decision to turn on Hezbollah after bringing Hamas on knees is strategic in essence. It means that Tel Aviv is bent upon stoking fire, heightening fears of an all-out regional war.
Such escalation presents an acute and dangerous challenge, but the country has been under the shadow of war for much of the past year. Iran’s silence over the Israeli attack on Hezbollah is surprising. The West lacks the guts to question Israel’s sledgehammer tactics, but at the same time, it is desperate to avoid the mere spectator tag.
The United Nations chief has sharply criticized the powerful but deeply divided Security Council at a high-level meeting Wednesday for a failure of leadership to end wars in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and beyond. The call for an immediate 21-days ceasefire by the US and others, if acted upon – would bring much-needed reprieve to Lebanon and Gaza.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Govt's haphazard
employment policy!
Goa is facing an unemployment crisis that is far worse than the national average, according to the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24. With an unemployment rate of 8.7%—nearly double the national rate of 4.5%—Goa's employment situation is deeply concerning. For women, the situation is even more dire, with female unemployment standing at a staggering 16.8%, while the national average is just 4.9%.
These unemployment statistics are shocking no doubt, but what is even more shocking and unacceptable is the Goa government's haphazard employment policy and clear lack of will in addressing this crisis!
Must mention that there is clear confusion between top ministers themselves e.g. TCP Minister says Govt needs to create 22000 jobs and CM says 2 lakh jobs will be available in 2 years (so which Minister which should we believe?).
Arwin Mesquita, Colva
Sue govt for
bad roads
The dangerous roads in Goa, especially in Bhatlem, Patto, Porvorim, Ribandar, Ponda, etc, are like death trap for commuters. Besides causing severe damage to vehicles, travelers experience a harrowing time. That is a fatal accident reported almost everyday.
The condition of roads is beyond description reflecting the negligence of the PWD. When assembly elections draw near, political parties engage in a fierce competition to win over voters. Poll promises are often woven around the key issues affecting the public.
But once elections are over, the same politicians are seen after five years (next election).
Political parties and their leaders know very well how to take the masses for a ride.
Until and unless people's anger over the issue gets reflected in elections in terms of choosing the right candidate, the condition of the roads will not improve.
K G Vilop, Chorao
Kangana leaves
BJP red faced
Actor-turned-politician and BJP MP, Kangana Ranaut has once again found herself at the centre of controversy with her recent remark calling for the return of the now-repealed farm laws, though withdrawing it later. Her remark highlights a pattern of provocative statements that raise important questions about her intentions and the broader political implications, leaving the BJP finds itself in an embarrassing situation every time. The BJP high command must know that while her willingness to engage in controversial topics can energise a segment of the party's base due to her celebrity status, her comments always draw flaks and pose risks. The BJP must ensure that its party members maintain balance in their comments, especially when addressing sensitive topics like agriculture and farmers' rights.
Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai