MAPUSA
Coming out openly in support of local youth who sell fish and other goods by the roadside, Ports Minister, Michael Lobo said the government should encourage Goans to earn a living who have lost jobs due to the pandemic.
He said the Covid-19 pandemic has robbed employment opportunities and disrupted economic activity not only in the State and the country but all over the world.
“This is a calamity that has affected governments all over the world. At a time when our youth have lost jobs and have no other source of income, I think it’s our duty to help those who are in need,” Lobo said.
He further said that he has helped at least 200 of such youth in the State majority of whom are from his constituency to start such activity.
Across Goa, several youth including tourist taxi drivers have taken up odd jobs like selling fish and vegetables to make ends meet.
Several businessmen who have been affected by the pandemic have also come out with out of the box strategies to survive in these difficult times.
The Ports Minister said he was very much aware that selling goods by the roadside was illegal and many would also disapprove the activity.
“But we have to understand that these are uncertain times and we need to protect the youth from going astray,” he opined.
He said the pandemic has brought out the best among the people and many Goans have taken up such jobs which in normal times they would have refused, due to embarrassment. “Can you believe that Goans are today ready to sell fish and vegetables? No one could have imagined this before the pandemic. They are doing it for a living. People have no jobs and therefore no money,” he said.
The minister has plans to construct an open shed in a field in Parra to allow people to sell food items.
“The plan is to offer a roof to those who want to make a living by selling various goods. Anyone can come and sell fish, vegetables, fruits, cakes, snacks, etc in the shed,” Lobo said.
