Appeal to overseas Goans
It is disheartening to see many Goans selling ancestral properties in Goa to settle abroad, where the high cost of living quickly erodes the value of wealth generated by selling the parcels of land. In Goa, these assets could sustain families for generations, yet they are often undervalued and sold off. Non-Goans, recognising their worth, readily acquire them, while Goans themselves overlook the long-term benefits of retaining such heritage. This trend not only squanders generational wealth but also weakens ties to the homeland. With global instability and rising expenses even in traditionally secure countries, it is time for overseas Goans to reconsider severing connections with Goa. Instead of selling, they should explore ways to preserve and utilise these properties, ensuring they remain valuable for future generations. Protecting this legacy is not just about wealth—it is about safeguarding identity and continuity for Goans everywhere.
Arwin Mesquita, Colva
Transparency tool
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has made biometric Aadhaar authentication (e-KYC) mandatory for all domestic LPG consumers. This marks a significant step toward addressing long-standing inefficiencies and misuse in the distribution system. This policy decision aims to bring greater transparency, accountability, and equity to LPG distribution. For years, the diversion of highly subsidised domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes has strained supply chains, distorted pricing, and deprived genuine households of timely access. By enforcing KYC norms, authorities can track end users, identify irregularities, and curb such practices. The issue has been further exacerbated by global factors. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts have disrupted energy supply chains, leading to volatility in fuel availability and prices. Hoarding and black marketeering only escalate shortages. KYC verification can help create a more robust consumer database. Coordination between local authorities, distributors, and enforcement agencies will be necessary to create a deterrent effect.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Quest for cooking gas
The battle between Iran and US-Israel is globally taking a heavy toll in various ways. Because of the ongoing conflict, gas shortage is felt in most parts of India, with people restoring to black marketing and buying at enhanced prices. Central and state governments  are keeping an eye on the situation. Reportedly, tens of eateries have either closed down, re-invented the menu or increased the prices; celebrations have been affected since these depend on caterers who need LPG cylinders. Those hardest hit by cylinder shortage would be orphanages, religious places where free food is served, senior citizens and destitute homes, hospital canteens and in other work sites that are considered as essential services. At these places, not all can use or afford induction stoves as these need special vessels and electrical fittings, or install solar system due to lack of time and prices or use firewood because of unfeasibility and availability. Governments must prioritise supply of gas cylinder to such vulnerable places
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
LPG chaos
The recent panic over LPG supply following the Iran conflict highlights poor government communication. While officials assured there was no shortage of domestic LPG cylinders, they failed to clarify the situation regarding commercial cylinders. This abrupt halt in supply created chaos for hotels and eateries, forcing menu cuts and threatening closures. The uncertainty quickly spread to domestic users, leading to online booking crashes, queues at distributors, and widespread fear. Now, commercial supply has resumed in some regions, raising questions about why it was stopped at all. Such mismanagement recalls earlier crises—demonetisation, GST rollout, and vaccine delays—where confusion and panic were avoidable. The government often creates problems, then claims credit for solving them. Though diplomacy with Iran may offer temporary relief, reliance on foreign supplies leaves India vulnerable. What is needed is pragmatic, transparent handling of emergencies.
S Kamat, Mysuru
Iran war must end
The US and Israel are struggling in the current war with Iran as both lack the clear game plan. President Donald Trump’s request to his European and NATO allies to send warships to end the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has met with a rebuff. The effective closure of the vital waterway by Iran in retaliation for airstrikes by the US and Israel has proved catastrophic for global energy and trade flows, causing the largest oil supply disruption and soaring global oil prices. If Trump is serious about ending the war, he must declare an immediate ceasefire. Israel in particular must be reined in. Destructive airstrikes — such as the ones in which Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Iranian security chief Ali Larijani were killed — will hardly create a conducive atmosphere for a negotiated solution.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
