PANAJI
Panaji Mayor Rohit Monserrate has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at tackling crime, child begging, and everyday civic concerns by involving the community more directly in policing and welfare efforts.
Speaking to the media, Monserrate announced the formation of a Child Committee comprising Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) members, NGOs, police officials, and Childline representatives.
The committee will focus on eliminating child begging in the capital and will also engage with schools to address student-related issues. “We want to ensure children are protected and supported, not exploited on the streets,” Monserrate said.
The Mayor noted that a similar committee has already been operational under the CCP for several months to improve safety for women and children. The new body, he explained, will expand the scope of intervention by working closely with educational institutions and social organizations.
Monserrate also highlighted the launch of a community policing initiative designed to strengthen coordination between citizens and the police. Under this programme, selected community members will receive training to identify and report suspicious activity. The initiative will be supported by WhatsApp groups for real-time communication and monthly review meetings to assess progress.
“The idea is to make policing more participatory,” Monserrate said. “When citizens and police work hand in hand, we can prevent crime more effectively and respond faster to issues affecting daily life.”
Officials hope the initiative will help bridge the gap between law enforcement and residents, creating a safer environment in Panaji. By empowering citizens to act as the eyes and ears of the police, the programme aims to deter petty crime, improve vigilance, and foster a stronger sense of community responsibility.
The Mayor stressed that these measures are part of a broader effort to address the city’s pressing challenges, from child welfare to public safety. With community involvement at the core, the CCP hopes to build a model of urban governance that is proactive, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Panaji’s residents.
