“It is a fact that Goa is a world-famous tourism destination. It is also known as a world heritage site due to the mortal remains of Goa’s patron saint, St Francis Xavier, at Old Goa. The remains still attract a huge number of devotees, Christian and non-Christian alike, from all over the world. In Goa, people of all religions offer their prayers to him,” GKMS President Siddanna Meti said.

He added, “Other airports in India were initially named after the area in which they were located and slowly renamed after famous people. We feel that Dabolim International Airport should also be renamed as ‘St Francis Xavier International Airport.”

Meti claimed that he had received information that a few state leaders are already considering renaming Dabolim airport. He continued, “The proposed Mopa airport is also on its way; the ground work will commence soon, as promised by Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar. Therefore, we decided to make representations to State as well as Central leaders with our suggestions before they take a decision on the renaming of Dabolim airport.”

Meti also expressed confidence that the demand of GKMS will be widely accepted. He said, “I am sure that people from all sections of society, even State leaders, will support the demand placed by GKMS and 13 forums affiliated with the Maha Sangh. Our sole intention behind the demand is to honour St Francis, who is also knows as ‘Merciful Saviour of Goa’.