PANJIM: Stating that the Narendra Modi led-government is aware of the miseries of mining dependents, Union Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu said that the new government at the Centre will resolve the mining issue as soon as possible.
“I don’t want to say what is done or what should have been done. But one thing I know is that closure of mining has economic as well as a social impact,” he said replying to queries on mining.
He said while the economic impact can be measured easily by loss of revenue or loss of GDP etc, the more important loss is the social impact.
“The people dependent on mining had to suffer innumerable issues and therefore we are committed to resolve that issue,” he said.
He said the “solution to the mining issue can be legal, administrative or legislative. We will look into all possible aspects working with the State government.”
Prabhu said he had met the former CM (late) Manohar Parrikar on a number of occasions to discuss the mining issue.
“I was present when he wrote the last letter to the prime minister on what should be the solution to the mining issue,” he added.
Asked what could be the possible solution, he replied, “I don’t want to tell you this on the eve of elections but surely the new government will find a solution regarding resumption of mining taking into account the miseries of the people”.
Prabhu, speaking on the current Lok Sabha elections, said there was a strong commitment of the people to bring back Modi sarkar at the centre.
“I am sure both candidates in Goa will win by thumping margin,” he opined.
Giving achievements of the Modi-led government, he disclosed that in the last 5 years inflation has dropped and India has become the fastest growing economy, that too against the backdrop of a global slowdown.
“On national security too, this government has provided internal security and on the borders. Whenever there has been a threat, we have given a strong reply,” Prabhu stated adding that the ‘last five has been exemplary since independence’.
Prabhu also batted for sustainable development in Goa saying “We do not want to develop Goa which does not benefit Goans.”
“Goa can be developed by sustainable mining, eco-friendly tourism and bringing up the fisheries business,” he stated adding “Goa can immensely benefit with a logistic hub at the Mopa airport.”
He said development in Goa has to happen without disturbing beauty of Goa.
