TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: The newly appointed Union Minister for Tourism (independent charge) Shripad Naik made it clear that he was not in favour of encouraging offshore casino culture in Goa. He has however left it to the respective state governments to take a policy decision on the matter.
The Parrikar government had only announced to shift all the casinos out of River Mandovi by 2015.
Q) With taking over the charges, what are your top-most priorities as far as Goa is concerned?
Naik: As of now, I have not prioritized any specific need. But I will make all efforts to strengthen the infrastructure of tourism sector.
Q) What about those projects that require central assistance?
Naik: Yes, there are several tourism-related projects in the state that are stuck midway. Clearances would be issued to all those projects soon.
Q) Goa is known for casinos, what is your take on this? Is the Ministry planning to take any decision on this?
Naik: Nothing is decided as yet on the long term operation of offshore casinos but I am against encouraging offshore casinos.
But finally, it’s policy decision of every government. In Goa, government has already said that it will shift the casino vessels out of Goa and will also ban entry of locals.
