PANAJI
Describing Goa's lush greenery as a ‘priceless natural asset,’ President Droupadi Murmu has called for the protection of the dense forests nestled within the Western Ghats.
Speaking at a civic reception hosted in her honour at Raj Bhavan on Tuesday, she claimed that such preservation efforts are pivotal for driving sustainable development in Goa.
“I have been informed about the abundant forest cover in Goa. The Western Ghats’ dense cover serves as a critical habitat for diverse wildlife. Preserving this priceless ecological heritage is essential to push Goa's sustainable growth,” she said as she addressed VIP guests in the presence of Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai, Union Minister Shripad Naik, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and others.
Murmu also underscored the importance of inclusivity in development, urging collaboration with tribal and other forest-dwelling communities, all while respecting and preserving their cultural traditions. This approach, she added, seeks to strike a harmonious equilibrium between progress and heritage.
She further lauded Goa's Forest Rights Act for its positive impact in advocating the rights of indigenous communities and inhabitants of forested areas.
“I am happy to note that Goa's performance on the parameters of sustainable development goals is adequate. It is listed in the leading states of the country,” the President added. Earlier, she distributed ‘sanad’ under the Forest Rights Act to some beneficiaries at the event.
On the other issues, the President said that apart from being a tourist hot-spot, Goa is also an important center for education, trade and commerce, industry, technology and naval defense. She recalled the contributions of the people of Goa in various fields such as sports, arts, public service, spirituality and literature; and expressed confidence that Goa will move forward while striking a balance between modernity and tradition.
On the occasion, she remembered former defense minister late Manohar Parrikar, whose contribution in this sector was immense and is still appreciated world-wide.
“...on the strength of his simplicity, truthfulness and work efficiency. He has made an honourable place in history and his contributions will be etched forever in our memory… Goa's newly-built airport with state-of-the-art facilities has been named Manohar International Airport,” she added.
