TEAM HERALD
VASCO: Environment and Forest Minister Alina Saldanha stated that the environment of the State with its hills, plateaus, valleys, rivers, springs and waterfalls is rich with unique flora and fauna, placing Goa among the 39 biodiversity hotspots of the world.
Saldanha was speaking after unfurling the tricolour to mark the 66th Republic Day of the nation at Vasco.
“Let us make use of this environment judiciously for our needs and at the same time ensure that it is conserved and protected for the future generations to come,” said Saldanha.
“On this day 66 years back, the people of India solemnly resolved to become a sovereign, socialist, secular democratic republic and to secure to all its citizens justice, liberty and equality,” stated Saldanha while addressing police, students of various schools from Mormugao taluka and the public.
“We are proud to be world’s biggest democracy living united inspite of diversity of culture, language, region, caste and creed. Republic Day is an occasion for all of us to remember our illustrious leaders, freedom fighters and great common people from all regions and religions who struggled and sacrificed their precious lives so that we and the future generations may live in freedom and peace,” she said.
“Communal disharmony has been of late creating bitterness and fear among various communities and this can be fatal for all of us and unless stopped completely, can lead to most dangerous consequences,” she added.
“Living in harmony has been the basis of Goa’s culture and Goa can be proud of its prevailing communal harmony in which all the communities have lived together for centuries.”
Saldanha further said Goa has made notable achievements in political, economic, social and cultural spheres.
