THE GOAN NETWORK
MARGAO
The Akhil Gomantak Kshatriya Maratha Samaj has urged the Goa Government to establish a separate commission for the welfare of economically weaker sections belonging to the General Category, on the lines of commissions for reserved categories and backward classes.
Organisation president Suhas Fal Dessai said economically disadvantaged youth, students and families from the General Category are facing growing hardships due to inadequate government support. He said deserving individuals are being left behind and are unable to participate fully in the state's social and economic progress.
The organisation demanded that economically weaker persons from the General Category receive benefits comparable to those available to reserved category beneficiaries. It also sought financial assistance for house construction, stating that many families still lack proper shelter.
The Samaj further urged the government to provide fee concessions and educational assistance to meritorious students from the General Category, including the Maratha community, besides extending pre-matric and post-matric scholarships and financial support for coaching for competitive examinations such as NEET and JEE.
It also demanded low-interest loans and government subsidies for unemployed youth seeking to establish businesses or industries.
The organisation said the Kshatriya Maratha community has made significant contributions to Goa's freedom struggle and remains predominantly agrarian, yet continues to be neglected despite its role in the state's development.
Fal Dessai said a delegation would soon meet the Chief Minister to submit a memorandum outlining these demands.
