PANAJI
Delivering a staunch message ahead of phase 3 elections in Goa on May 7, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delineated the polls as a choice between two contrasting ideologies.
Addressing a massive public rally at Sancoale on Saturday, Modi said I could not decide whether this is an election rally or a victory rally. “I am grateful for this immense response from the people of Goa”, Modi said, as he began his speech in Konkani.
PM stressed on creating a distinction between the NDA, which he portrayed as working for the betterment of the nation and its people; and the INDI Alliance, which he accused of pursuing self-interest and family-vested agendas.
Modi in his 33-minute long speech hailed the State's contribution across all the sectors and assured sports enthusiasts of hosting the Olympics in Goa. "I want to assure Goa, known as a land of football lovers, that we will fulfill your dream of hosting the Olympics in Goa,” he said at the poll rally.
Highlighting the government’s developmental efforts in the State, PM Modi reiterated the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas" (Together with All, Trust of All), emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance and heaped praises on Goa for fulfilling the "saturation approach."
“The saturation approach, epitomized by our mission "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas," ensures that government benefits are evenly distributed without discrimination, reaching every segment of society. Goa stands as a shining example under Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's leadership and his team's concerted efforts as it has made remarkable achievements,” he said adding,
“Goa has achieved 100 percent Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, electricity coverage, and LPG and tap connections. This holistic development shows secularism and social justice... the marginalized groups such as the poor, farmers, fishermen, and women have reaped significant benefits.”
While refraining from making pointed allegations against the Opposition leaders against the backdrop of controversial statements regarding the Constitution and party candidates in both parliamentary constituencies, PM Modi condemned the Opposition, particularly the Congress party, for what he termed as spreading negativity and obstructing progress.
“They have been disregarding the ethos of "Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat" (One India, Great India) and damaging the constitutional values for the sake of political gains,” he slammed.
Speaking further, Modi made ambitious promises for the future stating he will ensure constructing three crore permanent houses for the underprivileged after the elections; and appealed to the people of Goa to tap any families who need ‘pakka ghar.’
He also reiterated commitments, such as free medical treatment for citizens above 70 years of age and the already ongoing home voting for those above 85 years and persons with disabilities, etc across the country.
Reflecting on Goa's rich cultural heritage and its contribution to India's development, PM Modi assured to further enhance infrastructure and tourism potential within the State. He also compared the inflow of foreign tourists during 70 years of Congress and the massive jump in 10 years of his government at the Centre.
“BJP is also working to make Goa a major centre for international conferences,” Modi added, as he also claimed that progress made in the tourism sector nationwide has benefited Goa’s tourism industry too.
He also lauded the coexistence of different communities in Goa while recalling his strong connection with the State. “My fate is decided in Goa… My Prime Minister's journey started from Goa after this appointment… I was appointed as PM candidate in 2013 in Goa and hence, I have a strong and emotional connection,” he said.
The PM also remembered his “friend” ex-Defense Minister and ex-CM of Goa Manohar Parrikar stating that he would be happy to see the abolishment of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir.
