The Goa Barge Owners’ Association on Friday submitted its inputs for drafting the State Budget for the financial year 2026-27 to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant during a meeting held in Panaji.
The delegation was led by Association President Chandrakant K Gawas and included Executive Committee members Rahul Naik and Mahendra Parsekar. The representatives handed over a detailed memorandum outlining key recommendations concerning the inland water transport and barge industry in Goa.
According to the Association, the proposals were aimed at strengthening the barge sector and addressing issues faced by operators, particularly in the backdrop of fluctuating mining activities and operational challenges. The delegation expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for granting them an opportunity to present their suggestions ahead of the upcoming budget.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant appreciated the representation and assured the members that the recommendations would be examined for possible inclusion in the forthcoming State Budget. He also acknowledged the role of the barge industry in supporting Goa’s economy and employment generation.
The Association, in its statement, thanked the Government for its continued support to the sector and referred to the upgradation of Brittona School, stating that such initiatives would help create skilled manpower for the industry.
President Chandrakant K Gawas said the interaction was constructive and expressed hope that the concerns and suggestions of barge owners would receive due consideration in the budgetary process for 2026-27.
