Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, along with Panchayat and Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, MLA Nilesh Cabral and Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet, met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi to seek clarity on the future of Dabolim International Airport.
During the meeting, the Centre assured the Goa delegation that Dabolim Airport will continue to handle civilian flight operations even as Mopa International Airport expands its services. The assurance has brought significant relief to the people of Goa, addressing long-standing concerns related to air connectivity, employment opportunities, regional balance and the sustainability of existing aviation infrastructure.
The leaders highlighted the importance of Dabolim for South Goa and for thousands of families dependent on airport-linked livelihoods. The Defence Minister’s reassurance, they said, underlines the Centre’s commitment to safeguarding Goa’s interests while ensuring coordinated civil and defence aviation operations.
The state government reiterated that it will continue engaging with the Centre to ensure seamless functioning of both airports, strengthening Goa’s position as a key aviation and tourism hub.
