I am glad to pen this Message of good wishes as The Goan completes ten years of its journalistic prowess.
Over the past decade, The Goan has succeeded in securing a unique niche in the media landscape of our beloved State. With its balanced reporting, fearless investigative journalism and steadfast commitment to truth, it has become more than just a newspaper: true to its title, it has developed into a voice of the people and for the people of Goa.
I have been requested to share my vision for Goa over the next five years. My vision for Goa extends far beyond this time frame, and I believe it can be at least partly realised in 60 months, depending on the goodwill and collaboration of all concerned.
I envision a Goa that thrives in harmony: a place where its unparalleled beauty blends seamlessly with thoughtful development, not rampant concrete jungles; a Goa that will remain Goa and not lose its identity, despite the strain on the environment and the changing demographics; a Goa where its vibrant cultures – Konkani, Portuguese, Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, Tribal – are not only preserved but celebrated; a Goa where different religious traditions can continue to coexist harmoniously, as they did for centuries in the past.
I envision a Goa where young and talented locals do not feel the need to migrate in search of better prospects, but return home because they can see promise here; a Goa where the rush of modernity does not make us forget our elders, but rather revere them for their wisdom and stories.
I dream of a Goa where villages (and their panchayats) are empowered to shape their futures, where every child, even in a remote hamlet, has access to good education and all-round development; a Goa where women are safe, respected and given equal opportunities in every sphere: social, economic and political.
I dream of a Goa where governance is transparent, leaders are accountable and corruption is not the norm; a Goa where activists are not criminalised for speaking the truth, and where the voice of the common GOAN is louder than the roar of greed.
This is the Goa that I dream of: a Goa for everyone, yes, but especially for Goans. Because this land is not just a destination. It is a home, a heritage and a heartbeat that must continue to thrive – for generations to come.
