Progress boost
The recent approvals by the Modi government for Goa are highly encouraging. The proposed Vande Bharat Express between Bengaluru and Margao promises faster, more comfortable, and reliable travel. It will ease commuting for residents, provide a convenient alternative to road journeys, and significantly boost tourism and the state’s economy. Equally noteworthy is the Centre’s approval of Goa’s first veterinary college. This institution will bring quality veterinary education within the state, sparing students the need to move elsewhere. With growing demand in animal husbandry and dairy sectors, it is likely to offer excellent employment prospects, while strengthening animal healthcare in Goa. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Modi government for these forward-looking initiatives that enhance connectivity and education. I also appreciate Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for his consistent efforts in advancing these projects.
Vaman S Sankhalker, Harvalem
Muddying Mandovi water
A month ago Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had assured the state that no new casino vessel will be allowed to be moored in the Mandovi river. A PIL was filed by Justice (Retd) Ferdino Rebello of the Enough is Enough NGO to stop the proliferation of floating casinos. But the Advocate General of Goa has revealed in the High Court that mooring permission had already been granted to the 2,000-capacity ship a few years ago. In fact, the government and the company have blamed the NGO stating that the petitioners filed the case late knowing the vessel had already set sail for Goa. The concessonaire’s advocate submitted that Rs 400 crore had already been spent on the vessel and that no interim relief be granted to the petitioners, also he pleaded that the ‘malafide’ PIL should be dismissed. The AG representing the state government mentioned that the casino vessel will be allowed to operate only after further statutory permissions are secured by the company.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
Safety of enumerators
Two schoolteachers in Odisha, who were engaged in census duty, tragically died within two days, reportedly due to sunstroke. This marks the third such incident in the state, raising concerns about the safety of enumerators during high-temperature conditions. As the census in Goa is currently underway, similar concerns are emerging. The state is experiencing soaring temperatures of 33–34°C. Many teachers and field workers are tasked with door-to-door enumeration, exposing them to prolonged sun and heat. Health experts warn that working under such extreme conditions significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be fatal if not addressed promptly. Officials and local authorities in Goa need to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of census workers. Measures could include scheduling frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas, ensuring that the enumerators are provided with adequate water for hydration, limiting exposure to peak afternoon heat by rescheduling the work and by providing awareness on recognising early signs of heatstroke.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Heatwave days
The familiar heatwaves have not only arrived in India but have also intensified. In the years to come, a two degree rise in temperature is said to push the globe to thrice the normal exposure, and this phenomenon is likely to affect the South Asian countries more. The ‘marine heatwaves’ too have shown little signs of abating. Heat brings humidity, and the natural cool air from the seas gets smothered by high humidity in coastal India. In regions, like Maharashtra’s Vidarbha, hot winds and lack of moisture are responsible for the mercury soaring high. Areas that have received little showers in April are heading towards an insuperable period. People need to remain on their toes: heat exhaustion, heat cramp and heat stroke – the three common heat conditions. Additionally, water paucity and overuse of electricity has put much pressure on the power grids causing load shedding in some areas. Simmering heat, paucity of water, and polluted air form a deadly triplet.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Signs of intolerance
Funded and nurtured by the likes of Aurobindo Ghosh and Rabindranath Tagore, Jadavpur University was a centre of resistance against the British rule. JU students continue to carry forward the legacy of academic excellence and the commitment to raising their voice in support of democracy and social justice. Rather than escaping to safety, they took the trouble to regularly cook and distribute food among the stranded, starving local people during the Covid-19 lockdown. JU has always been a high-ranking university. In the NIRF Ranking 2025, JU ranked 9th among universities, 18th overall, and first among state public universities. Branding those students who are the real assets of the country as anti-nationals shows signs of an autocratic mindset, intolerant of peaceful agitation and dissent.
Sujit De, Kolkata
