PORVORIM
Margao MLA Digambar Kamat has criticized sustained opposition to Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) land in Goa and called for Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s intervention.
During the discussion on the State Budget 2023-24, Kamat expressed strong disapproval of the opposition faced by the government for setting up a permanent IIT campus in Goa. He lamented that such opposition is sending the wrong message considering Goa’s high literacy rates.
“The government has increased budget allocation for IIT but there’s absence of an IIT in Goa, despite efforts. Top businessmen from other states are inquiring regarding the opposition to the IIT project in the State. What is happening to Goa? We have one of the highest literacy rates then why are we opposing this project,” Kamat questioned.
Kamat also highlighted the vehement opposition witnessed during the setting up of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), although its permanent campus is now nearing completion. “There was a lot of debate...We finally found a place and the construction began in full swing. I believe the work will be complete by December-end,” he added.
Kamat also emphasized the need for CM’s intervention in identifying and finalizing the land for IIT.
From Sanguem to Valpoi, Canacona, and even Pernem, the government has faced opposition from locals demanding the relocation of the project. Despite CM’s repeated appeals to shun negativity, the government has not yet identified a new location for an IIT campus.
