The Goa Police are set to add four new Mahindra Scorpio vehicles—two each for North and South Goa—to their patrolling fleet in mining-affected areas. Priced at over ₹1.10 crore, the vehicles will be funded by the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), a fund meant for the welfare of communities impacted by mining operations.
The move has sparked debate, as DMF guidelines prioritise spending on health, education, irrigation, and women's empowerment—without any mention of police infrastructure. Despite this, the DMF Governing Council approved the purchase with the condition that the vehicles bear DMF branding and are used strictly in mining zones.
The decision has drawn criticism from the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association and South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes, who argued that police vehicles should be funded through departmental budgets, allowing DMF money to benefit affected communities more directly.
In response, police officials defended the decision, citing the need for reliable vehicles in remote areas during emergencies, especially during the monsoon. They added that while DMF will cover the initial cost, operational and maintenance expenses will be borne by the police department.