CM hints at IIT plan for Ponda, promises Panaji-like development

Ponda: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday said that Ponda could soon host a full-fledged IIT campus.

Describing Ponda as an emerging ‘Temple City’ surrounded by a growing educational hub, Sawant hinted at plans to establish an Indian Institute of Technology in Ponda taluka.

“Our government is committed to inclusive growth under the vision of Narendra Modi—Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas. Late Ravi Naik’s vision for Ponda will be first priority. Ponda city will be developed like Panaji smart city with underground electric cabling and upgraded sports facility, ID hospital to be upgraded,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sawant also engaged with members of the Gujarati and Marwadi communities during a corner meeting held at Dhavali, Ponda.

The interaction is being seen as part of a broader effort to consolidate migrant voter support in the constituency, said political commentators.

BJP candidate for the Ponda bypoll, Ritesh Naik, greeted members of the Gujarati and Rajasthani communities in their respective mother tongues. He urged voters to “choose development” and support the “double-engine BJP government” for faster progress in the region.