PANAJI: The State Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today approved a series of decisions focused on livelihood generation, welfare measures, healthcare services and education reforms across Goa.
Speaking to the press after the Cabinet meeting, Sawant said the government has approved the appointment of Goa Livelihood Forum as the implementing agency for the operation, management and maintenance of Sustainable Development Goa Multi-One Product Processing Centres.
“We have approved financial assistance of Rs 1 crore annually for the initiative. These processing and value-addition centres will help strengthen livelihood generation, provide training and improve market linkages for local entrepreneurs,” Sawant said.
The government stated that the centres are expected to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities and support entrepreneurship across the State.
Sawant also said the Directorate of Education has already issued a circular regarding scholarships under Government of India schemes for students involved in folk arts, drama, theatre and traditional performances.
“Students selected under these schemes will receive stipends starting from Rs 3,600 along with training support assistance of up to Rs 9,000 depending on the institution and programme. The initiative is aimed at preserving and promoting Goa’s rich folk culture and traditional art forms among the younger generation,” he said.
The Cabinet further approved the annual report and initiatives of the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
“The Office of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities continues to undertake training programmes, sensitisation workshops and support initiatives for persons with disabilities,” Sawant said.
Approval was also granted for the creation of 23 posts under the Goa Rehabilitation Board, an autonomous body dedicated to rehabilitation and welfare services, along with the restoration of two Junior Civil Engineer posts in the Housing Board.
In the healthcare sector, the Cabinet approved consultant appointments, including specialist positions such as Neurosurgeons, to strengthen healthcare services in the State.
Sawant said the Cabinet also approved the Goa Rules of Admission for Postgraduate Degree Courses at Goa University and Goa Medical College to ensure “a transparent and structured admission process for higher medical education.”
The Cabinet further approved allocations related to mineral resources in accordance with legal provisions and sustainable management norms, he added.
