It must be said that the bulk of tourists visiting Goa head to the coastal belts, and beach shacks are considered to be a major attraction. The Goa State Beach Shack Policy 2023-2026, which was approved by the cabinet on Friday, has introduced a slew of reforms to not only prohibit illegalities such as sub-letting, noise pollution and illegally installed deck beds, umbrellas, tents etc., but to also ensure quality experiences for patrons. What comes as a surprise is that an age limit of 18 to 60 years for the applicants has also been stipulated in the policy. It is learnt that shack owners see red over the stipulated age clause and have reportedly resolved to oppose the shack policy tooth and nail till the age clause is removed. There seems to be no logic in having an age limit for starting a shack. It is learnt that most of the experienced shack owners have been running the sacks over the years and must have completed 60 years. They will be left without a source of livelihood. Senior citizens should be given an opportunity to earn a living. The government needs to do a rethink on the clause of age limit for applicants of the shack license.
