The Goa government must aim to be a leader in every sector, including per capita income. But it should also remember that the people are the foundation of any government, and their wellbeing is the government’s responsibility.
Homelessness and poverty often carry a social stigma, making it hard for people to get help or opportunities. Giving small amounts of aid to the poor is not enough to help them build proper homes. Many people have built what are called “illegal” houses”these may be demolished or regularised under the law. But the law must also understand the reason behind such constructions. Why have Goans built illegal houses? The likely answer is either homelessness or unemployment. The law must consider this thoughtfully.
How many free houses have been provided under the Prime Minister’s housing scheme in Goa? The state government should take the lead and propose to the PMO that free houses be provided to those in real need. Per capita income should not be the only factor. Free homes must be given to the truly needy, regardless of caste, tribe, or BPL status, based on income levels. Special focus should be given to the landless, homeless, and jobless.
Secondly, the government should give job opportunities to the homeless on a priority basis and offer them homes on easy monthly instalments. This can be done under either a Prime Minister’s or a Chief Minister’s housing scheme.
Thirdly, the government should regularise existing houses where possible and strictly stop further illegal constructions.
The Prime Minister has stated that the NDA government has built four crore pucca houses, set a target of three crore Lakhpati Didis, provided 12 crore households with tap water, and ensured free medical care for all senior citizens. But the issue of unemployment still remains unresolved.
The Prime Minister says, “We have provided basic amenities to the poor and are working to cover 100 per cent of the beneficiaries.” His mission is clear and should also benefit Goans. I urge all 40 elected representatives from Goa to request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to approve free housing in Goa for the homeless, landless, and jobless. The people are the true infrastructure of any government”this is the core of democracy.
