MARGAO
Salcete political figures and heavyweights paid rich tributes to former Sports Minister Monte Cruz, with former Chief Minister Luizinho Faleiro asserting that Monte Cruz is immortalized by his construction of the state of the art Nehru stadium at Fatorda.
“Monte is no more, but his work for Goa, specially in the field of sports will remain forever”, stated Faleiro as paid a condolence visit to the former Minister’s residence at Pajifond.
He added: “In fact, Monte Cruz completed the stadium within a record time. In remember in 1980, when I became MLA of Navelim for the first time. Fatorda was then part of Navelim constituency. As a young MLA, I was a member of the TCP board and I had proposed many projects including a stadium at Fatorda. Monte Cruz took the project to the logical conclusion after he became the Sports Minister”.
In his condolence message, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai said Fatorda will always remember Monte Cruz as the 'architect' of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda. “This significant infrastructure has not only become a major sporting venue but also a recognisable landmark of Fatorda. Personally, and on behalf of Fatordekars, I express my deepest condolences to his family and friends’, Sardesai added.
Congress Working Committee (CWC) member and ex-GPCC president Girish Chodankar said the sports and business communities are mourning the loss of former minister Francisco Monte Cruz, a visionary who left a lasting impact. “His legacy, including the iconic Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, has inspired generations of athletes and fostered a passion for sports. Remembering his achievements and the positive influence he had on those around him is a fitting tribute to his memory”, he said.
Girish added: “I was fortunate to have a close relationship with him since childhood, witnessing his remarkable transformation from humble beginnings to a creative entrepreneur. His innovative ventures, such as Imphal bulbs and tube lights, Orlim and Kings beer, and the introduction of pint beer, showcased his entrepreneurial spirit. Our neighborhood bond in Comba-Margao deepened my admiration for his extraordinary journey, and I am grateful for the positive impact he had on me. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire me and many others”.
