HEADING
I will extend development to
oppn constituencies: Arlekar
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PIC: ARLEKAR
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New roles: Shet
is happy, Wagh
says will think
>> See pg 2
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INTRO
Rajendra Arlekar, who is to be sworn in as minister today (Thursday), in an interview to Elvino Aurajo assured that he would approach development as an inclusive process and not restrict it to constituencies represented by the ruling party MLAs. Excerpts
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The Goan (TG): What is your reaction to being selected as a minister?
Rajendra Arlekar (RA): I accepted whatever my party decided for me. Earlier, my party wanted me to take up the post of the Speaker which I humbly accepted and now the party felt that I should be elevated to the rank of cabinet minister which I welcome. As a speaker I have done my duty to my utmost ability and since my party has elevated me to a minister my responsibility has increased as I am not only the minister of my constituency but of the entire State.
TG: Could you list your priorities?
RA: I will not restrict his work only to my constituency but will work for the benefit of the entire State. Development is an ongoing process and I will not limit development to the ruling MLA's constituency but will take it to the constituencies represented even by the opposition MLA’s constituency.
TG: What about development in your constituency?
RA: As Speaker there were certain restrictions as I had to call on the ministers for the developmental works. Ministers have their own preferences towards their constituencies, nonetheless I was supported by each and every minister to carry out my developmental works in my constituency.
TG: Have you made a demand for a particular portfolio?
RA: Although I am taking the oath tomorrow (Thursday) as a minister I am not aware of which portfolio will be allotted to me.
TG: What is the kind of development that Dhargalim needs?
RA: Public amenities like roads, electricity and proper network for water supply will be my priority. There are some roads which needs urgent attention. I also want to construct a 15 MLD water reservoir. There are other works in the pipeline which I want to complete after being formally inducted in the cabinet of minister.
