BELAGAVI
Stating that Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is keen on an amicable resolution to the Mhadei water sharing issue, Karnataka’s special representative in New Delhi Shankar Gowda Patil said the chief ministers of Goa and Karnataka should seek the Centre’s intervention to resolve the issue for the benefit of people of both states.
He was speaking to media persons from Belagavi after he had called on Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday in a bid to enhance the cordial relations between Goa and Karnataka.
The meeting at the chief minister’s official residence at Altinho-Panaji, lasted 25 minutes and they discussed various issues pertaining to economic and social growth of both states. Discussions were also held to strengthen further relations between Karnataka and Goa.
“Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed satisfaction to have an amicable solution for every issue that prevails between both states concerning economic and social development, including the Mhadei water diversion issue.”
“I have apprised and assured the Goa chief minister that nothing will be destroyed after the project is implemented and Karnataka will divert water only for drinking purpose,” said Patil, while adding that all possible measures would be initiated to avoid damage to the environment and forest.
“The Goa chief minister is keen to find a lasting solution to the long-pending Mhadei dispute. He has also expressed desire to find an amicable solution although the issue is sub-judice. I am confident that both chief ministers will take a final call soon by having a dialogue,” Patil added.
Discussions were also held to strengthen relations between both the states to explore opportunities available in different fields which are beneficial to both sides.
“We also held talks on giving a boost to traditional medicine as both the states were making progress in producing ayurvedic medicines at a large scale,” Patil said.
“Goa and Karnataka have a huge scope to promote traditional medicine as the Centre had set aside Rs 4,500 crore for it in the budget. The Goa CM assured to extend all possible support to Karnataka in giving a boost to traditional medicine,” Patil added.
