PORVORIM: Against the backdrop of jibes by the Opposition leaders over the recent change in the political scenario, CM Sawant on Wednesday said it has strengthened the govt and will contribute towards Goa’s welfare.
The remaining five Congress MLAs, GFP MLAs and Ind MLA Rohan Khaunte have been repeatedly been taking a dig at the 10 ex-Congress MLAs joining BJP in the sudden political development.
“The 10 former Congress MLAs have seen how the Narendra Modi-govt is doing well at the Centre as well as the BJP govt in Goa, which is why they took this step (to join BJP) for Goa’s betterment. I welcome them. This has strengthened the govt. It will also contribute to Goa’s progress,” he told the House.
Fatorda MLA CM Vijai Sardesai slammed that the recent political changes claiming it has violated 10th schedule of the Indian Constitution. The former Dy CM, who withdrew his support from the govt after all the GFP leaders were asked to resign from their respective portfolios, questioned the ‘real and fake Goenkarponn.’
To this, CM said it was for the people of decide. MLA Isidore Fernandes, who was amongst the 10 to jump the ship, objected to the jibes, asking the Opposition MLAs to look into their past.
CM gives update on other govt issues
On the Agriculture front, CM said various schemes have been introduced to ensure survival of farming in the State. Similarly, several activities are being taken up to educate and create awareness about different facets of this sector. He assured the House that the govt’s focus was to double the farmers’ income by the year 2022.
On the “Clean Goa, Green Goa” mission, he sought public participation to ensure the State is rid of the garbage menace. We have created a new dept on garbage management, which is handled by Minister Michael Lobo. Entire garbage will be cleaned. The streets are already being cleared of the mess. We need support from the people to keep the State clean and green, because otherwise it would impact everywhere such as health and tourism,” he added.
Sawant also discussed about the on-going free distribution of nearly 2 lakh saplings to institutions, committees, etc in a bid to boost green cover in the State. He said the Forest dept has been instructed to reduce distributing Akasia saplings owing to its adverse effects. Following the recommendation from Congress MLA Digambar Kamat to distribute fruit-bearing saplings, CM assured to commence the drive soon.
With the upcoming Mopa airport and recent laying of the foundation stone for the All India Institute Ayurveda Yoga and Naturopathy in Pernem, Sawant said he was optimistic the taluka will be ranked number 1 in the next three years.
