Go for planned development
The State Planning Board was disbanded in April 2017. Later the State Institution for Transformation (SIT) Goa was formed which was subsequently renamed as Goa Institution For Future Transformation (GIFT) in order to serve as a knowledge and innovation hub and one-stop solution provider by following best practices suited for sustainable development. GIFT had the mandate to spearhead feasibility studies and guide government decisions on non-polluting industries, eco-friendly ventures, and take up development issues within the state for management as well as development of inland waters. GIFT was formed to suggest improvements, necessary amendments along with course correction. It was assumed that GIFT would assist in achieving sustainable development goals and Vision 2030. However, the institution reportedly remains inactive and there has barely achieved any progress since its inception. Public opposition to development projects is often portrayed as resistance to progress. In reality, it is frequently a reaction to inadequate planning, poor communication, and a lack of long-term vision. To address these gaps, governments need to institutionalise expert-led planning frameworks. One potential pathway is reviving and strengthening forward-looking institutions like GIFT.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Nefarious designs
The state government has moved to suspend land conversion proposals  under Section 39A of the Town and Country Planning Act in St Andre Assembly constituency. It is pertinent to note that the scale of St Andre’s land conversions is nothing compared to the conversions in Old Goa, Tivim, Corgao and other areas. A scrutiny of the reclassification largely from orchard, agricultural, and natural cover to settlement reveals that what was introduced as a mechanism for ‘minor’ corrections has turned into slaughter of Goa’s beautiful land. The government has made a strategic retreat saying that the matter would be taken up in the Assembly and a final decision would be made, knowing well that it has brute majority to nullify the supposed ‘suspensions’. The government has booked St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar, social activist Swapnesh Sherlekar and even tribal and old women who were part of the agitation. The fig leaf put forward for this reprehensible action is that files have gone missing from the TCP office, presumably stolen by protestors. The Sawant government is trying every trick in its book to paint the protestors as criminals. The battle has been won but the war is far from over. Not one MLA from the ruling party has acknowledged that Section 39A is ruining Goa. We need to be ever vigilant and not let the government succeed in its nefarious designs.
Misha, Varca
Give peace a chance
I write with deep concern over the conflict in the Middle East involving global powers such as the United States, Israel, and Iran. At a time when the world is already grappling with economic challenges, climate crisis, and social instability, an armed conflict is deeply alarming. History has shown that war brings devastation, displacement, and the tragic loss of innocent lives—especially children, whose futures are destroyed. No political objective can justify such irreversible human suffering. World leaders must recognise that true strength lies not in military aggression, but in choosing dialogue and diplomacy over hostility. Institutions like the United Nations must take meaningful steps to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful negotiations. Preventing conflict is not only a political duty but a moral responsibility. War destroys nations and generations, while peace fosters cooperation, stability, and hope. Let us urge global leaders to set aside differences and ensure that dialogue triumphs over destruction.
Evaristo Fernandes, Merces
Wasteful expenditure
The recent installation of stainless steel railings around the municipal garden by the Margao municipality  appears to be an unnecessary and wasteful expenditure of public funds. Rather than improving pedestrian movement, the railings have created inconvenience and restricted access, especially since only the east and west entrances are commonly used while the north and south openings remain largely unused. The garden pathway has increasingly become a gathering spot for loiterers and anti-social elements, with benches being used as resting and even sleeping places throughout the day and night. This has made it uncomfortable for local residents to visit the garden with their families. It is unfortunate that taxpayer money has been spent on costly railings that may not be durable, while genuine civic concerns remain unaddressed. The civic body had even attempted to raise house tax earlier, adding to residents’ frustration. Councillors and authorities seem to have overlooked the deteriorating condition of the garden environment. It is hoped that the authorities concerned will take immediate steps to restore the municipal garden as a safe and respectable space for families and the local community.
Bhalchandra VS Priolkar, Margao
