At the official Prerna Diwas event held on Sunday in Ponda, Goa's Sports and Culture Minister Govind Gaude sparked controversy by openly criticizing the state government for its inadequate efforts in tribal welfare. Speaking at the Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir, Gaude expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises to the tribal community, particularly the prolonged delay in constructing the much-awaited Tribal Bhavan.
Despite repeated reminders, Gaude said, several commitments remain pending, questioning whether the Department of Tribal Welfare is truly delivering on its purpose. “The patience of the tribal community is wearing thin. We will not hesitate to agitate again if needed,” he warned.
Joined on stage by Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik, ST/SC Commission Chairman Deepak Karmalkar, and other key tribal leaders, Gaude emphasized the importance of the Tribal Bhavan in providing a dedicated platform for tribal youth and rural communities. “The administration has failed to follow up on the project. The Chief Minister should publicly declare a timeline for its completion,” he urged.
Gaude also criticized the planning and outreach of the Prerna Diwas programme, arguing that the turnout of tribal community members was underwhelming due to poor coordination. “If the government cannot take this programme seriously, we are prepared to organize it ourselves,” he stated.
Attempting to defuse the situation, Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik promised to personally raise the matter with the Chief Minister. “I will go with Govind Gaude to speak with the CM. We are committed to pushing for the Adivasi Bhavan,” Naik assured the audience.
Former minister Prakash Velip added to the criticism, suggesting the tribal welfare portfolio be handed over to a different minister to improve community access and engagement. He also called for a timeline on implementing political reservations for Scheduled Tribes.
The event highlighted growing unrest within the tribal community over stalled development and unaddressed demands, with ministers and tribal leaders united in demanding more accountability and action from the state government.