As the debate on nagar panchayats continues, it has become apparent that conversion of a panchayat area to a nagar panchayat can only be done through an amendment of municipal laws. A nagar panchayat lies somewhere between a municipality and a panchayat and represents an area in transition to a city. Certain panchayat areas in the state have grown into semi-urban areas but continue to be referred to as villages. The Porvorim plateau for instance could easily be considered as the twin city of Panaji, but residents have resisted the move to convert the area into a municipality on account of the higher tax regime and a lack of clarity on the benefits. The population criteria for formation of a nagar panchayat is a 30,000 and above. None of the villages seeking this status fit into this criteira. Taleigao, which is perhaps the largest village has a population of 24,000. But then, Goa is a small state and the criteria might have to be suitable altered to suit it. Although those villages which have sought nagar panchayat status have done so in the belief that more money will flow in from the state's exchequer, there are other aspects that need to be debated and studied before a decision can be taken. Per se, the idea appears to be sound as it combines the best of both grass-root level institutions and the matter must be pursued with greater vigour.
