PANAJI:
Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, in his address to Goa Legislative Assembly, expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the Lairai Devi temple stampede, the tragic Birch nightclub fire, and recent road accidents across the State, terming the incidents as heartbreaking and irreparable losses. The House paid one minute silence
The Governor’s address started amid a protest by Opposition MLAs, who demanded that he begin by acknowledging the Arpora nightclub fire tragedy that claimed 25 lives and call for accountability. When he did not make the reference, Opposition members stood up, shouted “shame” and displayed placards.
Marshals were eventually summoned to restore order, and protesting legislators were marshalled out of the House as the Governor continued his speech.
Meanwhile, Governor announced that Goa has set 2037 as the year by which it aims to become a fully developed State, laying out the government’s long-term roadmap through the Goa Vision 2050 document.
“The Goa Vision 2050 document, now in its final stage, will serve as a long-term blueprint for Vikasit Goa, aligned with the national vision of Vikasit Bharat 2047,” he said, outlining the aspirations for economic and social progress.
Raju highlighted the government’s plan to create the proposed Kushavati district, emphasising the administrative benefits it would bring. “Kushavati district will reduce travelling time, enhance infrastructure development and tourism in the hinterland area,” he noted, stressing the aim of decentralised governance.
He also spoke about the Mhaje Ghar scheme, calling it a defining intervention in the State’s housing sector that would fulfil long‑cherished dreams of homeownership for many Goans. “My government has introduced the Mhaje Ghar scheme, a step that will enhance the happiness of Goans by helping fulfil their long‑cherished dream of owning a home. The move has brought an end to decades of uncertainty,” Raju said.
Education infrastructure received attention, with three new hostels being constructed at government colleges in Sanquelim, Khandola, and Quepem. “Sanquelim hostel, with a capacity of 100 students, is inaugurated and already occupied; Khandola hostel, with 60 seats, is in the final stages of completion,” he pointed out, adding that the facilities were designed to meet international standards.
Highlighting support for farmers, the Governor said the government disbursed Rs 3.27 crore to 3,024 farmers hit by unseasonal rains, extending benefits even to non‑Krishi Card holders. “As many as 6,414 farmers benefited under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, and 29,600 farmers received support for mechanised farming,” he said, underlining agricultural strengthening efforts.
On animal welfare, the Governor said the government was addressing the problem of stray cattle by working with civic bodies to relocate them to gaushals, and noted that 1,35,358 animals have been vaccinated and 1,07,280 treated in the current financial year up to November 2025.
On the economy, Raju credited national tax reforms for driving growth, saying, “Goa’s economy continues on a positive growth trajectory, recording 14.94 per cent growth in 2023–24,” and congratulated the Prime Minister for implementing GST reforms to boost ease of living and doing business.
He stated that for FY 2025–26, the Investment Promotion Board has approved 17 projects with an investment of Rs 397 crore and a potential for 2,449 jobs. Meanwhile, firm commitments have been secured for three mega projects worth Rs 2,245 crore, which are expected to create 1,767 jobs. He added that Goa had been ranked No.1 nationally in the service sector by the Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry, reaffirming its status as an investment‑friendly destination.
On infrastructure, the Governor acknowledged public inconvenience due to ongoing works, including the six-lane elevated corridor from Sangolda Junction to Majestic Hotel, NH-66 approaches, and the Dhargal flyover. “Once completed, these projects will drastically improve intra-state connectivity and reduce travel time,” he said. He also mentioned the revival of the Sanjeevani Sugar Factory on a public-private partnership basis.
Raju also praised the Fire and Emergency Services for responding to 7,111 calls between January and October 2025, saving 140 lives, rescuing 690 animals, and protecting property valued at Rs 29.54 crore. He also stated that Goa had achieved an 87.72 per cent crime detection rate, evidence of vigilant, citizen-centric policing. While Goa Police maintained that the situation remained under control in 2025 with a detection rate of 87.77 per cent, the figure marked a sharp fall from the 96.67 per cent recorded the previous year.
Commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram, the Governor described the national song as a source of collective strength. “It is not just a song; it rejuvenates our energy and awakens us to our duty towards the nation,” he said. He also highlighted Goa’s inclusivity initiatives, noting that Purple Fest is now being replicated.
