MAPUSA
Outlining his comprehensive plan for development if elected, Congress Party’s Lok Sabha candidate for North Goa, Ramakant Khalap proposed the formation of a council comprising 20 advisors, each representing a constituency in the district.
These advisors, well-versed in the challenges faced by their respective villages, would convene a meeting every three months, including one meeting before each Parliament session to address local issues that could be raised in the Lok Sabha or communicated to ministers.
Khalap pledged efficient allocation of MPLAD funds and the implementation of various schemes across all constituencies.
He emphasised a transparent process, allocating a portion of the annual Rs 5 crore fund for every constituency based on community needs and priorities. Additionally, he committed to executing numerous schemes for the district’s welfare.
“Be it roads or other works, we will allocate funds annually for each constituency, based on the demands of the people and the priority. Besides this, there are so many schemes which I will get implemented in the district,” Khalap said.
Reflecting on his past accomplishments, Khalap noted the ongoing appreciation for previous initiatives, such as the Social Security Scheme for vulnerable groups. Despite credit being diverted elsewhere for some projects, he remained resolute in his commitment to serving the community.
Addressing grassroots concerns, Khalap stressed the importance of resolving local issues like poor road conditions at the appropriate level. He affirmed his familiarity with the populace’s challenges, citing his longstanding presence in the political arena and track record of service.
Khalap admitted to his persistence in advocating for constituents’ needs, even if success was not always guaranteed, demonstrating a steadfast determination to fight for their interests.
'Tillari pipeline must be completed in Guirim'
MAPUSA: Asserting that adequate water supply is a crucial requirement for Goans, INDIA bloc’s North Goa candidate Ramakant Khalap said that the work on the Tillari pipeline project in Guirim and Saligao pursued by him was left incomplete by the BJP government.
“Pipelines were laid in Guirim and Saligao as part of the Tillari water supply project. If you stand atop Guirim, you will see these half pipelines that have been laid. Crores of rupees were spent on this. These pipelines are lying unused. When I was out of the government, the subsequent administration didn’t pursue this project,” Khalap said while addressing corner meetings at Anjuna and Assagao as part of his campaign.
“I have been telling them for the past 12 years that let us bring this water. Now they are building a water treatment plant at Guirim, but where will the water come for this?” he asked.
He also spoke on the need to preserve Goa’s dwindling land resources.
