MARGAO
Social activist and convenor of Goa Panchayati Raj Institutions, J Santan Rodrigues was felicitated for his active role in fighting the battle to get more powers and functions for the panchayat raj institutions and his work to protect the biodiversity.
A function organised by friends and well-wishers on the occasion of his 60th birthday on Friday saw people from all walks of life, including sarpanchas, panchayat members, former MLAs and ZP chairperson showering praises on Santan for his contribution to the panchayat movement.
Paddy Man of Goa, Fr George Quadros pointed out that Santan is one person who will not skip any programme on farming and biodiversity across the State. “The nature of Santan is his simplicity. He is in touch with nature and that’s why he is with biodiversity. He honours God’s creation and that is his integrity. Integrity is the most important thing in the life of a human being,” he added.
The sarpanchas of Rachol and Camurlim Joseph Vaz and Basil Fernandes respectively highlighted Santan’s contribution to the panchayat movement in the State.
Former Raia Sarpanch Xavier Fernandes said that Santan has guided the panchayat members in the Goa PRIs. Former MLA Clafacio Dias recalled the work carried out by Santan during his membership of the South Goa Zilla Panchayat.
