PANAJI
As debate over the closure of Dabolim International Airport resurfaced ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the BJP has reiterated government’s assurance to ensure its operations are intact.
At a press conference held in the BJP head office, Panaji on Thursday, party’s State President Sadanand Shet Tanavade assured that both Dabolim and the Manohar International Airport (MIA), Mopa will continue their operations unhindered.
He also dismissed concerns about Dabolim’s closure, particularly after Qatar Airways shifted its operations to MIA.
“Flights will operate at both the airports and there are no plans to close Dabolim. We have witnessed an increasing number of daily flights and improved connectivity to various tourism destinations,” he said replying to media queries.
Earlier on Tuesday, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho criticized GMR group, alleging that they were pressuring the Centre to divert flights from Dabolim to MIA, Mopa. The minister also warned GMR to refrain from unethical practices while reassuring the State that Dabolim airport will remain operational.
Meanwhile, the party will launch the ‘Beneficiaries Sampark Abhiyan’ as part of a nationwide initiative to connect with every person who has benefited from the Central government’s welfare schemes. Tanavade said that each beneficiary will receive a letter of gratitude from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through booth karyakartas across Goa.
The State has around 30,000 beneficiaries of various Central government schemes. “Our booth workers will personally deliver PM Modi’s letters to beneficiaries in their respective areas. MoS Shirpad Naik, Chief Minister (Pramod Sawant), MLAs, and other leaders will participate,” he added, informing that a dedicated team will oversee the campaign from March 1 to March 4.
In another move, PM Modi will address a special virtual session on March 6 to commemorate International Women's Day. In Goa, large screens will be set up in each constituency to allow women to participate in the address.
Tanavade reiterated the BJP’s confidence in winning the Lok Sabha elections, citing over 50 per cent voting share in each parliamentary poll. He also reiterated that Goa will secure both seats while taking a jibe at the INDIA bloc over withdrawals of support.
“BJP will win over 370 seats, and the NDA over 400 seats. We are confident because BJP has worked towards infrastructure and human development since it came to power at the Centre,” he maintained.
