Wednesday, July 29, 2009
House hits turbulence
North-South Divide delayed decision on Mopa airport: CM
Section 6 of Land acquisition within 7 days
Steering Committee to be formed
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat created a flutter in the House yesterday as he pinned the ten-year delay to kick-start land acquisition proceedings for Mopa international airport to the North-South divide in the state.
Amidst vociferous protests and demands for explanation from opposition leader Manohar Parrikar and former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar, the Chief Minister referred to the High Powered Committee and its decisions in a bid to deflect attention from the North-South controversy. Add to that, a meager budgetary provision of Rs 30 lakhs for the project, made the opposition charge the government with adopting a lackadaisical approach on this project.
The current status
The proposal for acquisition of land for the international airport at Mopa and approach road has been submitted by the Special Land Acquisition Officer, Mopa through the Collector for notification under Section 6 of the Land Acquisition Act.
The government has not floated Expression of Interest (EoI), letter of intent or any other advertisement for undertaking construction of the airport. Matters related to the actual construction of the airport have to be decided by the High Powered Steering Committee under the Chairmanship of the Chief Minister.
Meetings of this Committee were last held during the tenure of former Chief Minister Pratapsing Rane and the last such meeting took place in September 2005. Subsequently, no meeting took place as the government was awaiting the report of the Six Member Committee constituted by the office of the Prime Minister to look into various aspects of the international airport at Mopa.
This Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister submitted its report in June 2008 to the Prime Minister. Thereafter, despite a file being moved for constituting the Steering Committee under the new government, the Chief Minister had remarked that the matter should be kept pending, claims the written reply.
CM’s promise in House
Yesterday, the Chief Minister vowed to publish Section 6 of the Land Acquisition Act within seven days and informed that Steering Committee is ‘Being Formed’. He announced that the aforesaid Steering Committee would comprise of local MLAs and local people.
According to the Chief Minister, the procedure for land acquisition proceedings for Mopa airport was completed much earlier, notification was also issued but was allowed to lapse.
“There arose a dispute between North and South and the land acquisition proceedings lapsed,” opined Kamat. Explaining the seriousness of the government’s intention of having Mopa airport, Kamat said the Urgency Clause for land acquisition was invoked precisely for this reason.
The delay, Kamat explained, was due to the formationn of the HPCC by the central government. “It was only after it was decided that Mopa is a must in addition to Dabolim that land acquisition proceedings commenced with an Urgency Clause,” added the Chief Minister.
The land to be acquired, Kamat informed, was in conformity and as per the recommendations of ICAO. “The land acquisition proceedings will be over immediately and money will be made available,” assured the Chief Minister.
The debate in House
Earlier, setting the ball rolling on the delay in executing of Mopa international airport was former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar.
His points of debate revolved around three aspects: the inordinate delay on this project even as the government of Maharashtra has declared a special package of Rs 5,000 crore for tourism development in the neighbouring Ratnagiri district.
Narvekar made a mention about Maharashtra government’s plans of constructing an airport at Chipi in Konkan. He also sought explanation on the North-South divide mentioned by the Chief Minister.
Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar, Mandrem MLA Laxmikant Parsekar also supported Narvekar in demanding explanation from the Chief Minister on the ‘North-South divide’.
Parsekar pointed out to the utter lack of seriousness of the government on Mopa when he pointed out that area in addition to that mentioned by the Chief Minister for acquisition is required for the airport.
“The government has decided on some 1 crore square metres area as requirement for Mopa international airport,” informed Parrikar.
All about airport members of high powered committee
Chairman: Chief Minister
Members: All three Goan MPs, Joint Secretary (Civil Aviation), Chief Secretary
The HPCC submitted its report in July 2008 to Prime Minister
Total land proposed to be acquired: 749 hectares (for international airport)
Land for approach road: 84 hectares
Land acquisition proceedings u/s 4 and 17 (Urgency Clause) of Land Acquisition Act invoked
Section 6 of Land Acquisition Act within seven days
Possible date for declaration of award: Early 2010
Bid to kill Ponda civic councillor!
BY A GT CORRESPONDENT
PONDA: Ponda councillor, Vincent Paul Fernandes, had a narrow escape after he was allegedly knocked down from his bike by a car, allegedly by two brothers, whose illegal structure the civic body had ordered to be demolished yesterday.
Vincent Paul, who is tipped to be the next vice-president of the Ponda civic body, told the police that the two brothers -- Daniel and Benny Fernandes -- from Silvanagar, Ponda “tried to kill him” at 5.35 pm near the Verenkar teashop on Ponda-Belgaum road.
Both the brothers are absconding, but the car used by them to knock down the councillor, was left parked in front of the police station.
Vincent Paul was riding his Bajaj bike (GA-01-P-5603) to the Ponda bus-stand and on reaching the teashop a red Maruti Swift (GA-05-B-0248) drove straight into him. Although he took to one side, the car knocked him down injuring his right leg. The car later zoomed off, police said.
The councillor was rushed to the ID hospital, while the police proceeded to the residence of the accused, but did not find the brothers there.
Vincent Paul, meanwhile, demanded stern police action against the duo, who he alleged, enjoy political patronage.
“I filed many complaints against them and they even
threatened to murder me. They built some illegal structure and the matter was in court. Today, the Chief Officer ordered demolition of the structure and this is the reason they attacked me,” Fernandes told the media.
He said if the police did not take strong action, it will only encourage anti-social elements and people will lose faith in the system. Former chairperson, Venkatesh Naik, and councillors Kishore Naik, Damodar and Pradeep Naik visited Fernandes.
Ponda police have registered a case under sections of the IPC 341 (restraining), 324 (assault), 427 (damages) and 506 (II), which is non-bailable offence for threatening to kill.
PONDA: Ponda councillor, Vincent Paul Fernandes, had a narrow escape after he was allegedly knocked down from his bike by a car, allegedly by two brothers, whose illegal structure the civic body had ordered to be demolished yesterday.
Vincent Paul, who is tipped to be the next vice-president of the Ponda civic body, told the police that the two brothers -- Daniel and Benny Fernandes -- from Silvanagar, Ponda “tried to kill him” at 5.35 pm near the Verenkar teashop on Ponda-Belgaum road.
Both the brothers are absconding, but the car used by them to knock down the councillor, was left parked in front of the police station.
Vincent Paul was riding his Bajaj bike (GA-01-P-5603) to the Ponda bus-stand and on reaching the teashop a red Maruti Swift (GA-05-B-0248) drove straight into him. Although he took to one side, the car knocked him down injuring his right leg. The car later zoomed off, police said.
The councillor was rushed to the ID hospital, while the police proceeded to the residence of the accused, but did not find the brothers there.
Vincent Paul, meanwhile, demanded stern police action against the duo, who he alleged, enjoy political patronage.
“I filed many complaints against them and they even
threatened to murder me. They built some illegal structure and the matter was in court. Today, the Chief Officer ordered demolition of the structure and this is the reason they attacked me,” Fernandes told the media.
He said if the police did not take strong action, it will only encourage anti-social elements and people will lose faith in the system. Former chairperson, Venkatesh Naik, and councillors Kishore Naik, Damodar and Pradeep Naik visited Fernandes.
Ponda police have registered a case under sections of the IPC 341 (restraining), 324 (assault), 427 (damages) and 506 (II), which is non-bailable offence for threatening to kill.
Khalap, others get HC reprieve
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Former Union Minister and chaiman of Mapusa Urban Cooperative Bank Limited Ramakant Khalap along with a few members of the board of directors and a loanee got a reprive in the Bombay High Court at Goa when the latter set aside the order of the Sessions Court refusing to withdraw criminal cases filed against them in 2003.
The High Court observed that there was no reason for the Additional Sessions Court to dismiss the plea of the Bank when it had managed to get the loan recovered from the defaulting parties.
The petitioners including Khalap and others had approached the High Court stating that there was no reason to continue with the criminal case against them when the Bank had recovered the loans granted to three firms from Bangalore about 11 years ago. The Bank had also made a request to the state government in this regard.
However, the Sessions Court while rejecting their appeal in October 2007, stated that all these facts were not brought on record and also repayment of loan was not a ground to withdraw criminal cases. It also upheld the order passed by the JMFC, Mapusa in April 2007.
The CID/Crime Branch, Panjim had registered misappropriation and cheating case against Khalap and 13 others in connection with the release of Rs 3.5-crore loan to a partnership firm from Bangalore, without allegedly following proper procedure for its building project - M/s Vasanta Farms between 1998 and 1999.Besides, the board of directors, the partners of Vasanta Farms were also named as accused in the case.
Advocates Atmaram Nadkarni and Mahesh Sonak argued on behalf of the firms and the Mapusa Bank respectively while, public prosecutors Adv Carlos Ferreira and Winnie Coutinho represented the state.
PANJIM: Former Union Minister and chaiman of Mapusa Urban Cooperative Bank Limited Ramakant Khalap along with a few members of the board of directors and a loanee got a reprive in the Bombay High Court at Goa when the latter set aside the order of the Sessions Court refusing to withdraw criminal cases filed against them in 2003.
The High Court observed that there was no reason for the Additional Sessions Court to dismiss the plea of the Bank when it had managed to get the loan recovered from the defaulting parties.
The petitioners including Khalap and others had approached the High Court stating that there was no reason to continue with the criminal case against them when the Bank had recovered the loans granted to three firms from Bangalore about 11 years ago. The Bank had also made a request to the state government in this regard.
However, the Sessions Court while rejecting their appeal in October 2007, stated that all these facts were not brought on record and also repayment of loan was not a ground to withdraw criminal cases. It also upheld the order passed by the JMFC, Mapusa in April 2007.
The CID/Crime Branch, Panjim had registered misappropriation and cheating case against Khalap and 13 others in connection with the release of Rs 3.5-crore loan to a partnership firm from Bangalore, without allegedly following proper procedure for its building project - M/s Vasanta Farms between 1998 and 1999.Besides, the board of directors, the partners of Vasanta Farms were also named as accused in the case.
Advocates Atmaram Nadkarni and Mahesh Sonak argued on behalf of the firms and the Mapusa Bank respectively while, public prosecutors Adv Carlos Ferreira and Winnie Coutinho represented the state.
Pay hikes for MLAs
BT A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The state Cabinet yesterday is learnt to have approved a proposal to hike salary, allowances and pensions of Ministers and MLAs.
It is learnt that the meeting held in the Goa Assembly Complex yesterday evening decided to enhance housing loans for MLAs from Rs 12 lakh to Rs 30 lakh. It also discussed various government bills including the Parliamentary Secretaries (Salaries, Allowances and Pensions) Bill, 2009 to be introduced in the ongoing Assembly session.
PANJIM: The state Cabinet yesterday is learnt to have approved a proposal to hike salary, allowances and pensions of Ministers and MLAs.
It is learnt that the meeting held in the Goa Assembly Complex yesterday evening decided to enhance housing loans for MLAs from Rs 12 lakh to Rs 30 lakh. It also discussed various government bills including the Parliamentary Secretaries (Salaries, Allowances and Pensions) Bill, 2009 to be introduced in the ongoing Assembly session.
Govt pulled up on all fronts
Under fire, Churchill assures work in BJP constituencies
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The alleged step motherly treatment meted out to constituencies represented by the opposition while planning, sanctioning and executing development works saw the opposition BJP benches rise in unison against PWD Minister Churchill Alemao in the House yesterday.
BJP MLAs -- Mayem MLA Anant Shet, Mandrem MLA Laxmikant Parsekar, Canacona MLA Vijay Pai Khot, Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar, Shiroda MLA Mahadev Naik -- charged the government of not according financial approval for works in their constituencies.
Parsekar charged the government with holding back 12 files which had been sent for sanction. "No roads have been constructed in Mandrem for two years," said Parsekar.
Mayem MLA Anant Shet was very specific on his Starred Question. Shet wanted to know the number of works tendered and work orders issued.
Ministry for Tribal Welfare soon: CM
PANJIM: The reduction of funds for tribal welfare prompted the opposition BJP benches to put the Social Welfare Minister Sudin Dhavlikar on the mat. It was only after Chief Minister Digambar Kamat came to the rescue of his colleague and promised a Ministry of Tribal Welfare that the BJP relented.
Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar was peeved over the gradual reduction of funds for Tribal Welfare as a percentage of the budget envisaged under the Tribal Sub Plan. Dhavlikar contended that some departments failed to prepare the relevant estimates, he pinned the blame on Finance Department. "The outlay reduced from 7% to 5% of the budgetary provision is done by the Finance Department," he said.
At this stage, Parrikar quickly pointed out that the percentage must be 12% as per the norms.
Govt mulling law to prosecute owners not reporting tenants
PANJIM: The government is examining the pros and cons of enacting a suitable legislation to empower the police to prosecute those owners who do not furnish information about migrants residing in their residences. However, any law enacted in this regard will be in tandem with the provisions of the Constitution of India.
This assurance by Home Minister Ravi Naik came against the backdrop of a Calling Attention Motion moved by Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo.
Lourenco demanded more measures such as taking finger prints of migrants. Naik put the rough estimates of migrants in Goa at 4 to 5 lakhs.
"It will, however, be unfair to assume that only migrants are indulging in crimes. Any law aimed against migrants would be discriminatory in nature and violative of the Constitution.
Illegal conversion of agri land echoes in House
PANJIM: Revenue Minister Jose Philip D'Souza admitted that the law pertaining to illegal conversion of agriculture land needs to be changed in the rapidly changing scenario. Priol MLA Pandurang Dhavlikar,Cumbharjua MLA Pandurang Madkaikar and former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar who described the situation at ground level as alarming.
Earlier, Dhavlikar raised the matter through a Calling Attention Motion when he pointed out to the illegal conversion of agricultural land in the state and the non-implementation of the acts/rules in this regard.
While former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar referred to encroachment in comunidade property, he wanted these structures to be regularised.
This, Narvekar argued, was due to the existence of these structures for many years. Madkaikar opposed the regularisation of structures on agricultural land while Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho was for setting a revised cut-off date for regularising these structures.
In his reply, the Revenue Minister said it was high time to amend the law. Delving into history, he informed that in the year 2002, an amendment was made for regularisation of structures on comunidade land where the cut-off date was pegged at June 2000. "One comunidade went to court and the entire procedure was paralysed," said Jose Philip.
He put the number of such cases of illegal construction on comunidade land at 2515 -- with 2127 in the North and 418 in the South. The options before the government, Jose Philip claimed, were regularisation or demolition. He felt the need for amending the law for enabling the filing of an FIR, registering the encroachment as cognisable offence and seizure of material.
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The alleged step motherly treatment meted out to constituencies represented by the opposition while planning, sanctioning and executing development works saw the opposition BJP benches rise in unison against PWD Minister Churchill Alemao in the House yesterday.
BJP MLAs -- Mayem MLA Anant Shet, Mandrem MLA Laxmikant Parsekar, Canacona MLA Vijay Pai Khot, Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar, Shiroda MLA Mahadev Naik -- charged the government of not according financial approval for works in their constituencies.
Parsekar charged the government with holding back 12 files which had been sent for sanction. "No roads have been constructed in Mandrem for two years," said Parsekar.
Mayem MLA Anant Shet was very specific on his Starred Question. Shet wanted to know the number of works tendered and work orders issued.
Ministry for Tribal Welfare soon: CM
PANJIM: The reduction of funds for tribal welfare prompted the opposition BJP benches to put the Social Welfare Minister Sudin Dhavlikar on the mat. It was only after Chief Minister Digambar Kamat came to the rescue of his colleague and promised a Ministry of Tribal Welfare that the BJP relented.
Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar was peeved over the gradual reduction of funds for Tribal Welfare as a percentage of the budget envisaged under the Tribal Sub Plan. Dhavlikar contended that some departments failed to prepare the relevant estimates, he pinned the blame on Finance Department. "The outlay reduced from 7% to 5% of the budgetary provision is done by the Finance Department," he said.
At this stage, Parrikar quickly pointed out that the percentage must be 12% as per the norms.
Govt mulling law to prosecute owners not reporting tenants
PANJIM: The government is examining the pros and cons of enacting a suitable legislation to empower the police to prosecute those owners who do not furnish information about migrants residing in their residences. However, any law enacted in this regard will be in tandem with the provisions of the Constitution of India.
This assurance by Home Minister Ravi Naik came against the backdrop of a Calling Attention Motion moved by Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo.
Lourenco demanded more measures such as taking finger prints of migrants. Naik put the rough estimates of migrants in Goa at 4 to 5 lakhs.
"It will, however, be unfair to assume that only migrants are indulging in crimes. Any law aimed against migrants would be discriminatory in nature and violative of the Constitution.
Illegal conversion of agri land echoes in House
PANJIM: Revenue Minister Jose Philip D'Souza admitted that the law pertaining to illegal conversion of agriculture land needs to be changed in the rapidly changing scenario. Priol MLA Pandurang Dhavlikar,Cumbharjua MLA Pandurang Madkaikar and former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar who described the situation at ground level as alarming.
Earlier, Dhavlikar raised the matter through a Calling Attention Motion when he pointed out to the illegal conversion of agricultural land in the state and the non-implementation of the acts/rules in this regard.
While former Finance Minister Dayanand Narvekar referred to encroachment in comunidade property, he wanted these structures to be regularised.
This, Narvekar argued, was due to the existence of these structures for many years. Madkaikar opposed the regularisation of structures on agricultural land while Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho was for setting a revised cut-off date for regularising these structures.
In his reply, the Revenue Minister said it was high time to amend the law. Delving into history, he informed that in the year 2002, an amendment was made for regularisation of structures on comunidade land where the cut-off date was pegged at June 2000. "One comunidade went to court and the entire procedure was paralysed," said Jose Philip.
He put the number of such cases of illegal construction on comunidade land at 2515 -- with 2127 in the North and 418 in the South. The options before the government, Jose Philip claimed, were regularisation or demolition. He felt the need for amending the law for enabling the filing of an FIR, registering the encroachment as cognisable offence and seizure of material.
Maid’s torture: State invokes SC/ST Act
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The State police yesterday, yesterday invoked section 3 of the Prevention of Atrocities (SC/ST) Act against the family accused of torturing their maid-servant as the victim belongs to the protected community.
Under this act, the case has to be investigated by an officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent or higher.
DySP Gundu Naik has been assigned the case.
A family going by the surname Pednekar residing at Porvorim, was booked earlier this week on charges of torturing -- beating and burning-- their minor maid servant.
The prosecution will file an appeal against the conditional bail granted to one of the three alleged accused owners Audumber alias Shubam Pednekar, by the Children’s Court on Monday.
Official spokesperson of the Goa Police, Superintendent Atmaram Deshpande confirmed that a revision application is being filed in the Bombay High Court at Goa.
Meanwhile, appalled by the state of the minor girl employed by the Pednekar family as domestic help and regularly assaulted by her owners, Save Child Abuse Now (SCAN)-India yesterday sought intervention of the Women and Child Development terming it as a case of ‘child labour’.
Deshpande further revealed that the Porvorim police have recorded the statement of the 10-year-old victim girl, who is still undergoing treatment at Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim.
Reliable sources have confirmed that according to girl, her employeers Shubham, his wife Meenaxi and sister-in-law Rekha Wagale regularly assaulted her, ever since she was employed at their place, six months back. The anticipatory bail plea of the two females will be heard at the children's court, today.
In yet another revelation, the girl’s salary was picked up by a person (not known) on her behalf, though she was not regularly paid.
In addition, she was forced to sleep in the balcony of her owner’s house and her flesh was burnt, quite often. She was even assaulted by her male owner, earlier.
It was moreover learnt that GMC at Bambolim will constitute a fresh medical board to examine the girl, thoroughly. When contacted GMC Superintendent Dr Rajan Kunkolienkar, however said that they haven’t received any such request from the police.
“We have not been requested for the same. However, if we are requested then we will indeed constitute a board to examine the girl’s old and new bruises,” Kunkolienkar told GT.
He said that personal attention was given to the minor girl’s health and that she would be shifted to a separate room shortly. “We are giving personal attention to the girl. Her food, treatment, etc are all being looked after,” the doctor said.
PANJIM: The State police yesterday, yesterday invoked section 3 of the Prevention of Atrocities (SC/ST) Act against the family accused of torturing their maid-servant as the victim belongs to the protected community.
Under this act, the case has to be investigated by an officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent or higher.
DySP Gundu Naik has been assigned the case.
A family going by the surname Pednekar residing at Porvorim, was booked earlier this week on charges of torturing -- beating and burning-- their minor maid servant.
The prosecution will file an appeal against the conditional bail granted to one of the three alleged accused owners Audumber alias Shubam Pednekar, by the Children’s Court on Monday.
Official spokesperson of the Goa Police, Superintendent Atmaram Deshpande confirmed that a revision application is being filed in the Bombay High Court at Goa.
Meanwhile, appalled by the state of the minor girl employed by the Pednekar family as domestic help and regularly assaulted by her owners, Save Child Abuse Now (SCAN)-India yesterday sought intervention of the Women and Child Development terming it as a case of ‘child labour’.
Deshpande further revealed that the Porvorim police have recorded the statement of the 10-year-old victim girl, who is still undergoing treatment at Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim.
Reliable sources have confirmed that according to girl, her employeers Shubham, his wife Meenaxi and sister-in-law Rekha Wagale regularly assaulted her, ever since she was employed at their place, six months back. The anticipatory bail plea of the two females will be heard at the children's court, today.
In yet another revelation, the girl’s salary was picked up by a person (not known) on her behalf, though she was not regularly paid.
In addition, she was forced to sleep in the balcony of her owner’s house and her flesh was burnt, quite often. She was even assaulted by her male owner, earlier.
It was moreover learnt that GMC at Bambolim will constitute a fresh medical board to examine the girl, thoroughly. When contacted GMC Superintendent Dr Rajan Kunkolienkar, however said that they haven’t received any such request from the police.
“We have not been requested for the same. However, if we are requested then we will indeed constitute a board to examine the girl’s old and new bruises,” Kunkolienkar told GT.
He said that personal attention was given to the minor girl’s health and that she would be shifted to a separate room shortly. “We are giving personal attention to the girl. Her food, treatment, etc are all being looked after,” the doctor said.
Mapusa cops bust gang, net rich haul
By A GT Correspondent
Mapusa: The Mapusa police, on Sunday, arrested three robbers and recovered stolen property worth more than Rs one lakh. The trio have been remanded to five days police custody by JMFC Mapusa.
The three thieves have been identified as Manjunath K Nagraj Achari alias Manja (26), Hanumant Karvat (22) and Sayam Karvat (19).
All three are residents of Carassco waddo-Mapusa and are natives of Karnataka.
According to PI Manjunath Desai the three accused committed are behind the thefts at Acoi, Karaswada and Gaunswado all falling within Mapusa Municipal limits.
The accused were arrested at the Banda check post while they were in a Panjim-Kolhapur MSRTC bus.
Head Constble Arjun Gauns, Sushant Korgaonkar, PC Nilesh Parab, Dinesh Satelkar, Sushant Chopdekar and Prabhakar alias Patrick Parab arrested the accused.
Police have recovered stolen articles such as two cooking gas stoves, cylinders, 3 TV sets, 8 water pumps, one fan, 2 DVD players and Crockery. PI Manjunath Desai assisted by PSI Uday Parab is conducted the investigation under the supervision of DySp Sammy Tavares.
Meanwhile, ASI Shankar Yeram and his team while on night patrolling duty at Housing Board on then night of July 26 night arrested one Govind Pujari (30) and Shivappa Nayak while they were attempting to steal an electricity transformer at Ganeshpuri.
Mapusa: The Mapusa police, on Sunday, arrested three robbers and recovered stolen property worth more than Rs one lakh. The trio have been remanded to five days police custody by JMFC Mapusa.
The three thieves have been identified as Manjunath K Nagraj Achari alias Manja (26), Hanumant Karvat (22) and Sayam Karvat (19).
All three are residents of Carassco waddo-Mapusa and are natives of Karnataka.
According to PI Manjunath Desai the three accused committed are behind the thefts at Acoi, Karaswada and Gaunswado all falling within Mapusa Municipal limits.
The accused were arrested at the Banda check post while they were in a Panjim-Kolhapur MSRTC bus.
Head Constble Arjun Gauns, Sushant Korgaonkar, PC Nilesh Parab, Dinesh Satelkar, Sushant Chopdekar and Prabhakar alias Patrick Parab arrested the accused.
Police have recovered stolen articles such as two cooking gas stoves, cylinders, 3 TV sets, 8 water pumps, one fan, 2 DVD players and Crockery. PI Manjunath Desai assisted by PSI Uday Parab is conducted the investigation under the supervision of DySp Sammy Tavares.
Meanwhile, ASI Shankar Yeram and his team while on night patrolling duty at Housing Board on then night of July 26 night arrested one Govind Pujari (30) and Shivappa Nayak while they were attempting to steal an electricity transformer at Ganeshpuri.
HC directs Candolim p’yat to furnish details
By A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The Bombay High Court at Panjim, yesterday, directed the Candolim panchayat to furnish the details of action initiated against illegal structures sprouted in the fields at Aradi-Candolim by August 10.
The Court directives came after it witnessed heated arguments between the Adv Pranoy Kamat, counsel for the petitioner and the Advocate General Subodh Kantak.
The petitioner John Baptista Sequeira pointed out in 2000 the High Court had passed a judgement banning conversion of tenanted fields and despite of this, illegal constructions were made in fields at Aradi-Candolim. He said that these structures were granted all permissions including occupancy certificate by the panchayat even after he had lodged complaints at all competent authorities.
AG Kantak told the Court that the Mapusa deputy collector was investigting the case and that at present 16 such cases were pending with him. He said that the petitioner did not approach these offices with his complaint. Arguing on behalf of the Candolim panchayat, Adv Nitin Sardessai said that the petitioner did not bother to inquire what action the panchayat had initiated against the illegal structures and when he had every oppotunity to approach the Deputy Director of Panchayats, Panjim.
PANJIM: The Bombay High Court at Panjim, yesterday, directed the Candolim panchayat to furnish the details of action initiated against illegal structures sprouted in the fields at Aradi-Candolim by August 10.
The Court directives came after it witnessed heated arguments between the Adv Pranoy Kamat, counsel for the petitioner and the Advocate General Subodh Kantak.
The petitioner John Baptista Sequeira pointed out in 2000 the High Court had passed a judgement banning conversion of tenanted fields and despite of this, illegal constructions were made in fields at Aradi-Candolim. He said that these structures were granted all permissions including occupancy certificate by the panchayat even after he had lodged complaints at all competent authorities.
AG Kantak told the Court that the Mapusa deputy collector was investigting the case and that at present 16 such cases were pending with him. He said that the petitioner did not approach these offices with his complaint. Arguing on behalf of the Candolim panchayat, Adv Nitin Sardessai said that the petitioner did not bother to inquire what action the panchayat had initiated against the illegal structures and when he had every oppotunity to approach the Deputy Director of Panchayats, Panjim.
Buzz at Malim has just begun
With the fishing ban slated to end on July 31, trawler crew members have begun arriving from other states and are gearing up for the season ahead. Vibha Verma speaks to fishermen on difficulties faced at the Malim jetty and the season ahead.
PANJIM: An eerie of silence that prevailed at the seven jetties across the state, has began to transcend into a buzzing zone with the fishing season coming to an end on July 31.
The Fisheries Department has started pooling in resources to give these jetties a facelift to improve the working conditions.
However the Malim jetty is still in a dilaphidated condition despite complaints from the trawler owners and fihing crew working on this jetty.
Malim jetty has over 4,000 workers working on 300 trawlers that venture into the sea for fishing. The workers expects the government to boost the working conditions at the jetty.
Apart from crew members who venture into the sea, presently around 30 workers are untangling purseine nets at the jetty, while others are busy washing nets, cleaning trawlers and mending nets.
The jetty faces numerous problems like its maintenance, expansion, and so forth.
“We expect the government to provide us with more facilities. We require additional 200 meters space at the jetty as against the present 110 meters, as the jetty is getting congested,” said Chairman of the Mandovi Fishermen Co-operative Society Sitakant Parab.
He also added that the congestion at the jetty results in damage of the trawlers parked.
Sitakant complainted that the trawlers parked at the jetty collide into each other with huge waves, strong currents and winds, which lead to their damage.
Of the total trawler boats, 250 are made of wood while remaining are fiber boats which require proper maintenance.
Ironically, ever since Malim jetty was constructed in the year 1996, upto now it has been debarred from water supply despite connection from the Public Works Department (PWD). The jetty users daily require atleast two-lakh litres of water, which they obtain from water tankers.
“The taps are run dry everyday. The society pays for the water tankers daily, which in turn is paid to the society by the trawler owners depending on the volume of water they utilize,” he said adding that their Ice Plant utilizes nearly 50,000 litres of water, everyday.
Insisting on the maintenance and amenities at the existing jetty, Parab brought to notice the need for a ‘Fish Selling Platform’.
“Number of trucks are parked inside the jetty creating a chaos during fish auction, every morning. To avoid this, we have requested the government to provide us with platforms,” he stated further adding that several recommendations to the fisheries ministry did not help. “We were given only assurances.”
Subsides offered by the government however alleviates the encumbrance. The association receives reimbursement for diesel. “We pay Rs 5.60 (market rate) for one-litre of diesel, which the government refunds later,” he said.
The trawlers owners expect this season to be fruitful. As per figures, the total catch at the Malim jetty from April 2008 to March 2009 was 11,500 tones.
He however claimed the society was in profit as it was outfitted with diesel pumps, ice plant, a spare part shop, grocery, workshops, medical facilities, etc. for trawler owners and its workers.
Meanwhile, out of the total labourers working on the trawlers and jetty, atleast 40% workers hail from Karnataka and Orissa each, while the remaining constitute of labours from Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and even Nepal (as they can enter India without a visa).
Besides, under the ‘new welfare schemes for safety of the fishermen’, proposed by the government lately, Parab informed that they received five complimentary ‘Distress Alert Transmitters’ (DAT) from the Coast Guard.
“These are on a trial basis, following which every trawler owner will have to purchase this transmitter.
DAT would benefit the workers on fishing vessels, as it is directly connected to the satellite.
During any emergency the fishermen can press the button of the instrument, and the satellite signal would reach the Coast Guard showing the exact location of the vessel to conduct rescue operation.
PANJIM: An eerie of silence that prevailed at the seven jetties across the state, has began to transcend into a buzzing zone with the fishing season coming to an end on July 31.
The Fisheries Department has started pooling in resources to give these jetties a facelift to improve the working conditions.
However the Malim jetty is still in a dilaphidated condition despite complaints from the trawler owners and fihing crew working on this jetty.
Malim jetty has over 4,000 workers working on 300 trawlers that venture into the sea for fishing. The workers expects the government to boost the working conditions at the jetty.
Apart from crew members who venture into the sea, presently around 30 workers are untangling purseine nets at the jetty, while others are busy washing nets, cleaning trawlers and mending nets.
The jetty faces numerous problems like its maintenance, expansion, and so forth.
“We expect the government to provide us with more facilities. We require additional 200 meters space at the jetty as against the present 110 meters, as the jetty is getting congested,” said Chairman of the Mandovi Fishermen Co-operative Society Sitakant Parab.
He also added that the congestion at the jetty results in damage of the trawlers parked.
Sitakant complainted that the trawlers parked at the jetty collide into each other with huge waves, strong currents and winds, which lead to their damage.
Of the total trawler boats, 250 are made of wood while remaining are fiber boats which require proper maintenance.
Ironically, ever since Malim jetty was constructed in the year 1996, upto now it has been debarred from water supply despite connection from the Public Works Department (PWD). The jetty users daily require atleast two-lakh litres of water, which they obtain from water tankers.
“The taps are run dry everyday. The society pays for the water tankers daily, which in turn is paid to the society by the trawler owners depending on the volume of water they utilize,” he said adding that their Ice Plant utilizes nearly 50,000 litres of water, everyday.
Insisting on the maintenance and amenities at the existing jetty, Parab brought to notice the need for a ‘Fish Selling Platform’.
“Number of trucks are parked inside the jetty creating a chaos during fish auction, every morning. To avoid this, we have requested the government to provide us with platforms,” he stated further adding that several recommendations to the fisheries ministry did not help. “We were given only assurances.”
Subsides offered by the government however alleviates the encumbrance. The association receives reimbursement for diesel. “We pay Rs 5.60 (market rate) for one-litre of diesel, which the government refunds later,” he said.
The trawlers owners expect this season to be fruitful. As per figures, the total catch at the Malim jetty from April 2008 to March 2009 was 11,500 tones.
He however claimed the society was in profit as it was outfitted with diesel pumps, ice plant, a spare part shop, grocery, workshops, medical facilities, etc. for trawler owners and its workers.
Meanwhile, out of the total labourers working on the trawlers and jetty, atleast 40% workers hail from Karnataka and Orissa each, while the remaining constitute of labours from Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and even Nepal (as they can enter India without a visa).
Besides, under the ‘new welfare schemes for safety of the fishermen’, proposed by the government lately, Parab informed that they received five complimentary ‘Distress Alert Transmitters’ (DAT) from the Coast Guard.
“These are on a trial basis, following which every trawler owner will have to purchase this transmitter.
DAT would benefit the workers on fishing vessels, as it is directly connected to the satellite.
During any emergency the fishermen can press the button of the instrument, and the satellite signal would reach the Coast Guard showing the exact location of the vessel to conduct rescue operation.
Modify law on church, state ties: Faleiro
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro yesterday said, the existing law in Goa regulating relations between the Church and the state should be modified for the same reasons and to the same extent as done in Portugal.
He said, the present law was created by the “Concordata” or treaty signed between the Holy See (Vatican) and the Portuguese government in 1940 and enacted during Salazar's dictatorship. It had been repealed in Portugal on the grounds that it was unconstitutional and violative of the democratic constitution that came into force in Portugal in 1974, post-Salazar, he added.
Faleiro was delivering his presidential address at the conference on 'Should there be a law to protect the properties of the Church?' organised by All India Catholic Union (Goa State) and Goa Cultural and Social Centre at the Goa International Centre, Dona Paula.
Faleiro further said, the Church authorities in Portugal supported the repeal of the Concordata of 1940, which was also against the letter and spirit of the Vatican-II Council.
The Concordata of 1940 was then repealed and substituted by the Concordata of 2004. In furtherance of the Concordata of 2004, two joint committees had been created in Portugal consisting of representatives of the Church and of the government. One of the joint committees deals with the interpretation and proper execution of the Concordata.
Faleiro said the Legislative Assembly was competent to enact a new law as this is within the legislative powers granted to it by the concurrent list in the seventh schedule of the Indian Constitution. Such laws exist for other other major religions in the country such as the Hindu Endowments Act, the Wafk Board Act and the Sikh Gurudwara Act.
Faleiro, however added that, any such change in the laws should be done in prior consultation with Church authorities and with their co-operation.
Former Supreme Court Judge K T Thomas, in his key-note address said, the Sikh religion, which is one of the smallest religions (in membership) in India, had the “Sikh Gurudwara Act” to govern its properties. Muslims too had also trust properties, the administration of which is governed by the “Wakf Act” and under these legislations the activities were subject to judicial scrutiny, apart from public auditing.
PANJIM: Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro yesterday said, the existing law in Goa regulating relations between the Church and the state should be modified for the same reasons and to the same extent as done in Portugal.
He said, the present law was created by the “Concordata” or treaty signed between the Holy See (Vatican) and the Portuguese government in 1940 and enacted during Salazar's dictatorship. It had been repealed in Portugal on the grounds that it was unconstitutional and violative of the democratic constitution that came into force in Portugal in 1974, post-Salazar, he added.
Faleiro was delivering his presidential address at the conference on 'Should there be a law to protect the properties of the Church?' organised by All India Catholic Union (Goa State) and Goa Cultural and Social Centre at the Goa International Centre, Dona Paula.
Faleiro further said, the Church authorities in Portugal supported the repeal of the Concordata of 1940, which was also against the letter and spirit of the Vatican-II Council.
The Concordata of 1940 was then repealed and substituted by the Concordata of 2004. In furtherance of the Concordata of 2004, two joint committees had been created in Portugal consisting of representatives of the Church and of the government. One of the joint committees deals with the interpretation and proper execution of the Concordata.
Faleiro said the Legislative Assembly was competent to enact a new law as this is within the legislative powers granted to it by the concurrent list in the seventh schedule of the Indian Constitution. Such laws exist for other other major religions in the country such as the Hindu Endowments Act, the Wafk Board Act and the Sikh Gurudwara Act.
Faleiro, however added that, any such change in the laws should be done in prior consultation with Church authorities and with their co-operation.
Former Supreme Court Judge K T Thomas, in his key-note address said, the Sikh religion, which is one of the smallest religions (in membership) in India, had the “Sikh Gurudwara Act” to govern its properties. Muslims too had also trust properties, the administration of which is governed by the “Wakf Act” and under these legislations the activities were subject to judicial scrutiny, apart from public auditing.
Handicapped ex-serviceman pedals to Goa
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Prabhajit Singh, ex-sepoy of 4-Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, a handicapped ex-serviceman who undertook a nationwide cycle expedition with the 'Nothing is Impossible' motto, reached Goa yesterday morning.
Singh had joined the army in 1984 and was discharged from service on medical grounds in 1989 when he lost his arm in a train accident.
He embarked on the cycle tour of the nation in January 19, 2009 from Ambala in Haryana and has so far travelled 11,823 kilometres, covering 21 states including Central, North-Eastern and Southern India, in 118 days.
On reaching Bambolim Military Camp, Singh was received by Brig Ashwani Sharma, Commandant 2-Signal Training Centre and Station Commander, Goa Military Station, who presented him a cheque of Rs 15,000. Officers and other ranks of the Centre were also present.
PANJIM: Prabhajit Singh, ex-sepoy of 4-Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, a handicapped ex-serviceman who undertook a nationwide cycle expedition with the 'Nothing is Impossible' motto, reached Goa yesterday morning.
Singh had joined the army in 1984 and was discharged from service on medical grounds in 1989 when he lost his arm in a train accident.
He embarked on the cycle tour of the nation in January 19, 2009 from Ambala in Haryana and has so far travelled 11,823 kilometres, covering 21 states including Central, North-Eastern and Southern India, in 118 days.
On reaching Bambolim Military Camp, Singh was received by Brig Ashwani Sharma, Commandant 2-Signal Training Centre and Station Commander, Goa Military Station, who presented him a cheque of Rs 15,000. Officers and other ranks of the Centre were also present.
No new mine at Dhave: CM
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat yesterday assured Speaker Pratapsing Rane that the government will not allow new mining at Dhave, Sattari in the stretch of Western Ghats even if it was granted environmental clearance by the Union Ministry of Forest and Environment and that non-operating mines will not be renewed.
The Chief Minister also reiterated that the government will close all illegal mines in the state and that all MLAs will be taken into confidence before drafting the new Mining Policy for Goa and see that the interest of the state was protected. He was replying to the discussion of Demands for Grants for mines, industry commerical taxes, art and culture, information techonlogy, etc in the Legislative Assembly.
He told the House that under MMRD Act, if any mine owner applies for renewal of licences after the expiry of his lease licences, the lease continues because this entire process consumes a lot of time for clearance. He said that following demand for low grade iron ore in countries like China, some of the closed mines re-started their operations including the entry of traders into the business. He said that the government passed a regulation to regulate these traders and so far 260 traders had been registered with the Department of Mines, while the officials are checking from where they procured the iron ore and stored.
He said that a committee of officers headed by Chief Conservator of Forests had been authorised to conduct inspections and initiate cation against the illegal mining in the state.
Earlier, Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar rued that the Government of India was not bothered to check the reports submitted by the public while, the environmental clearances granted by them was also not available on the website. He said that there was 75 per cent increase in mining operation in the state. He said that there were only 74 mines registered in 2004 and the same had increased to 115 mines (though official figure as 108), of which 58 mines were located in Sanguem taluka.
Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar demanded that the government should constitute a House standing committee to look into the complaints of all illegal mining in the state. He said that these illegal mining was doing nothing good for Goa and mining business was increasing despite global recession. He demanded that the NEERI report regarding the working of mining and environmental degradation should be reflected in the draft mining policy.
PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat yesterday assured Speaker Pratapsing Rane that the government will not allow new mining at Dhave, Sattari in the stretch of Western Ghats even if it was granted environmental clearance by the Union Ministry of Forest and Environment and that non-operating mines will not be renewed.
The Chief Minister also reiterated that the government will close all illegal mines in the state and that all MLAs will be taken into confidence before drafting the new Mining Policy for Goa and see that the interest of the state was protected. He was replying to the discussion of Demands for Grants for mines, industry commerical taxes, art and culture, information techonlogy, etc in the Legislative Assembly.
He told the House that under MMRD Act, if any mine owner applies for renewal of licences after the expiry of his lease licences, the lease continues because this entire process consumes a lot of time for clearance. He said that following demand for low grade iron ore in countries like China, some of the closed mines re-started their operations including the entry of traders into the business. He said that the government passed a regulation to regulate these traders and so far 260 traders had been registered with the Department of Mines, while the officials are checking from where they procured the iron ore and stored.
He said that a committee of officers headed by Chief Conservator of Forests had been authorised to conduct inspections and initiate cation against the illegal mining in the state.
Earlier, Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar rued that the Government of India was not bothered to check the reports submitted by the public while, the environmental clearances granted by them was also not available on the website. He said that there was 75 per cent increase in mining operation in the state. He said that there were only 74 mines registered in 2004 and the same had increased to 115 mines (though official figure as 108), of which 58 mines were located in Sanguem taluka.
Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar demanded that the government should constitute a House standing committee to look into the complaints of all illegal mining in the state. He said that these illegal mining was doing nothing good for Goa and mining business was increasing despite global recession. He demanded that the NEERI report regarding the working of mining and environmental degradation should be reflected in the draft mining policy.
Sherol: Lass who brought smiles from Lisbon
BY JULIO D'SILVA
CHANDOR: Six years of dedication and a disciplined regimen of regular training paid off when Sherol Fernandes won the bronze medal in the below 57 category of Taekwondo at the Lusofonia Games held in Lisbon recently where eight former Portuguese colonies along with the host country participated.
Way back when Sherol was studying in the V standard at Fatima Convent High School, her father noticed her sporting talent as she used to regularly climb the guava tree in their courtyard at Padribhat in San Jose de Areal.
"I do not know why, but I had this brainwave that she would do well in Taekwondo and as classes in this sport were being held in the village, I got her enrolled," disclosed Anicet Sucorro Fernandes.
However, as the classes in the village were irregular, she joined the Taekwondo classes at Margao and kept improving her game. In the very first Nationals that she participated at Manipur in 2005, Sherol bagged a silver.
Her tally of medals at the National level are: two gold won in the year 2007 and 2008 and now taking a place of pride is the Bronze medal at the international tournament won in 2009.
However, Sherol very closely missed the games even though she had trained hard for them for nearly one-and-a-half month including a residential camp - the reason being that she was overweight weighing 64.7 kilograms.
In order to qualify, she started eating cabbage and finally when the tournament commenced, the scales showed her weight to be 56.2 kilos meaning she had reduced 7.5 kgs.
Sherol is very happy with her performance and is grateful to the principal of her school - Shree Damodar Higher Secondary School at Paroda - for giving her the permission to not only participate in the games but also to train for it, missing classes.
"If only my earlier principal had to give me similar permission, maybe I would have participated in an international tournament earlier," rues Sherol.
In December 2007, Sherol was invited to participate in the national Taekwondo camp at Bhopal to select the Indian team for the World Junior Championship and Asian Senior Taekwondo Championship. However, as the principal of Bethany Convent, San Jose de Areal refused to give her any assurance on compensation for missing classes during the training and tournaments, she had to drop out. "I wish the government and schools give us extra marks for the days we miss classes, specially when we win medals and bring honour not only to the State but also the institute we are studying in," opined Sherol.
As the practice sessions were affecting her studies, Sherol's mother Sucorina, at one stage wanted her to stop Taekwondo. However, her father did not agree.
"This sport has made me self confident," discloses Sherol who earlier was a timid child. "For my first match, I was very scared, but after I won it, my confidence rose and today I am no longer afraid of entering the ring," she said.
Sherol has now set her eyes on the Taekwondo Olympics slated to be held in Goa in 2013 while at the same time she is preparing for the West Zone nationals to be held in October this year.
"We have to work very hard and improve our speed," she quipped, when asked about lessons learnt from the Lusofonia Games.
CHANDOR: Six years of dedication and a disciplined regimen of regular training paid off when Sherol Fernandes won the bronze medal in the below 57 category of Taekwondo at the Lusofonia Games held in Lisbon recently where eight former Portuguese colonies along with the host country participated.
Way back when Sherol was studying in the V standard at Fatima Convent High School, her father noticed her sporting talent as she used to regularly climb the guava tree in their courtyard at Padribhat in San Jose de Areal.
"I do not know why, but I had this brainwave that she would do well in Taekwondo and as classes in this sport were being held in the village, I got her enrolled," disclosed Anicet Sucorro Fernandes.
However, as the classes in the village were irregular, she joined the Taekwondo classes at Margao and kept improving her game. In the very first Nationals that she participated at Manipur in 2005, Sherol bagged a silver.
Her tally of medals at the National level are: two gold won in the year 2007 and 2008 and now taking a place of pride is the Bronze medal at the international tournament won in 2009.
However, Sherol very closely missed the games even though she had trained hard for them for nearly one-and-a-half month including a residential camp - the reason being that she was overweight weighing 64.7 kilograms.
In order to qualify, she started eating cabbage and finally when the tournament commenced, the scales showed her weight to be 56.2 kilos meaning she had reduced 7.5 kgs.
Sherol is very happy with her performance and is grateful to the principal of her school - Shree Damodar Higher Secondary School at Paroda - for giving her the permission to not only participate in the games but also to train for it, missing classes.
"If only my earlier principal had to give me similar permission, maybe I would have participated in an international tournament earlier," rues Sherol.
In December 2007, Sherol was invited to participate in the national Taekwondo camp at Bhopal to select the Indian team for the World Junior Championship and Asian Senior Taekwondo Championship. However, as the principal of Bethany Convent, San Jose de Areal refused to give her any assurance on compensation for missing classes during the training and tournaments, she had to drop out. "I wish the government and schools give us extra marks for the days we miss classes, specially when we win medals and bring honour not only to the State but also the institute we are studying in," opined Sherol.
As the practice sessions were affecting her studies, Sherol's mother Sucorina, at one stage wanted her to stop Taekwondo. However, her father did not agree.
"This sport has made me self confident," discloses Sherol who earlier was a timid child. "For my first match, I was very scared, but after I won it, my confidence rose and today I am no longer afraid of entering the ring," she said.
Sherol has now set her eyes on the Taekwondo Olympics slated to be held in Goa in 2013 while at the same time she is preparing for the West Zone nationals to be held in October this year.
"We have to work very hard and improve our speed," she quipped, when asked about lessons learnt from the Lusofonia Games.
Kidnappers booked for murder, illegal possession of weapon
BY A GT REPORTER
MARGAO: The four kidnappers of the Chicalim resident Sayad Ayaz have been booked by the Cuncolim police for an attempt to murder as well as under the Arms act.
An offence under Section 307 IPC and 25 r/w 4 of the Arms act has been filed against the four kidnappers Parriket Dileswhar Handike, Assam, Venkantash G Shrinivas (27), Orissa, Suraj Kumar Jha, Bihar and Imid Ali, Assam after the police recorded the statements of various witnesses from Canaguinim, Betul. Police have also recovered the weapon (a pistol) that the accused used to fire at them when they were chased in the woods at Rajbhag, Cabo de Rama, Canacona.
A bag containing a knife and some documents were also left behind by the accused while trying to escape from the clutches of the police.
The Verna police had earlier detained Suraj's brother Ravi Kumar has been now arrested on the charge of murdering the driver of the Maruti van, Sudan Dabhale of Mapusa on July 17.
Ali, Suraj and his brothers have been all brought on a transfer warrant to Vasco and shall be produced in court for police custody, today, July 28. Meanwhile, the postmortem conducted of the deceased driver Dabhale has revealed that the victim was stabbed in the abdomen and chest and that the throat was slit with a sharp weapon.
Slain taxi driver cremated
Mapusa: The Mapusa police have taken in their custody Ravindra Za (26), the accused involved in the kidnapping and killing Maruti Van driver Sudan Dabhale of Belowado Ucassaim. Za has been remanded to 14 days police custody by JMFC Mapusa.
Meanwhile the last rites of the deceased Sudan Dabhale was performed yesterday evening at Ucassaim. His body was earlier handed over to the relatives after autopsy.
North Goa SP Bosco George visited Mapusa police station to take stock of the investigation and offerd a few tips to DYSP Sammy Tavares and PI Manjunath Desai along with their team. Revealing details, PI Manjunath Desai disclosed that on July 17 around 7.45 pm one Mohamad Ali and his friend hired the Maruti Van of the deceased to go to Verna. He was last seen when he went to refuel the taxi at at around 8 pm at Carvalho petrol pump at Mapusa.
CM announces compensation
PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat yesterday announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh to the kin of Sudan Dabhale, a taxi driver from Ucassaim, Mapusa who was murdered by four abductors at Consua, near Cansaulim last week.
The Chief Minister also announced a compensation of Rs 25,000 to a minor girl Laxmi Nagappa Rathod, who was allegedly tormented and branded by her employers who had employed her as a maid servant.
MARGAO: The four kidnappers of the Chicalim resident Sayad Ayaz have been booked by the Cuncolim police for an attempt to murder as well as under the Arms act.
An offence under Section 307 IPC and 25 r/w 4 of the Arms act has been filed against the four kidnappers Parriket Dileswhar Handike, Assam, Venkantash G Shrinivas (27), Orissa, Suraj Kumar Jha, Bihar and Imid Ali, Assam after the police recorded the statements of various witnesses from Canaguinim, Betul. Police have also recovered the weapon (a pistol) that the accused used to fire at them when they were chased in the woods at Rajbhag, Cabo de Rama, Canacona.
A bag containing a knife and some documents were also left behind by the accused while trying to escape from the clutches of the police.
The Verna police had earlier detained Suraj's brother Ravi Kumar has been now arrested on the charge of murdering the driver of the Maruti van, Sudan Dabhale of Mapusa on July 17.
Ali, Suraj and his brothers have been all brought on a transfer warrant to Vasco and shall be produced in court for police custody, today, July 28. Meanwhile, the postmortem conducted of the deceased driver Dabhale has revealed that the victim was stabbed in the abdomen and chest and that the throat was slit with a sharp weapon.
Slain taxi driver cremated
Mapusa: The Mapusa police have taken in their custody Ravindra Za (26), the accused involved in the kidnapping and killing Maruti Van driver Sudan Dabhale of Belowado Ucassaim. Za has been remanded to 14 days police custody by JMFC Mapusa.
Meanwhile the last rites of the deceased Sudan Dabhale was performed yesterday evening at Ucassaim. His body was earlier handed over to the relatives after autopsy.
North Goa SP Bosco George visited Mapusa police station to take stock of the investigation and offerd a few tips to DYSP Sammy Tavares and PI Manjunath Desai along with their team. Revealing details, PI Manjunath Desai disclosed that on July 17 around 7.45 pm one Mohamad Ali and his friend hired the Maruti Van of the deceased to go to Verna. He was last seen when he went to refuel the taxi at at around 8 pm at Carvalho petrol pump at Mapusa.
CM announces compensation
PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat yesterday announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh to the kin of Sudan Dabhale, a taxi driver from Ucassaim, Mapusa who was murdered by four abductors at Consua, near Cansaulim last week.
The Chief Minister also announced a compensation of Rs 25,000 to a minor girl Laxmi Nagappa Rathod, who was allegedly tormented and branded by her employers who had employed her as a maid servant.
Ravi: New law on casinos soon
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Home Minister Ravi Naik yesterday stated in the Legislative Assembly that the government will soon draft a comprehensive legislation encompassing modern day casino gaming rules and stringent verification of antecedence of licence holder including financial position.
Replying to the discussion on Demands for Grants for home, Goa police and prosecution, Ravi said the government will ensure there was no revenue loss in casino operation and that its interest will be protected as always it has.
He further assured that no illegal casino will be allowed to operate in the state, adding that legislators will be taken into confidence before enacting the law.
However, he said those operators who had not met statutory requirements had been given time to produce the same taking into consideration that hundreds of Goan youth were employed with decent remuneration.
PANJIM: Home Minister Ravi Naik yesterday stated in the Legislative Assembly that the government will soon draft a comprehensive legislation encompassing modern day casino gaming rules and stringent verification of antecedence of licence holder including financial position.
Replying to the discussion on Demands for Grants for home, Goa police and prosecution, Ravi said the government will ensure there was no revenue loss in casino operation and that its interest will be protected as always it has.
He further assured that no illegal casino will be allowed to operate in the state, adding that legislators will be taken into confidence before enacting the law.
However, he said those operators who had not met statutory requirements had been given time to produce the same taking into consideration that hundreds of Goan youth were employed with decent remuneration.
Mickky to get tough on casinos
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: All activities in five casinos operating in river Mandovi are to be sealed. These erring casinos continue to operate despite their NOCs having expired (See Box on Pg 2).
This matter echoed in the House yesterday as Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar pointed out to the glaring irregularities in this regard. Compounding matters further for the government, the opposition leader also showed how the Advocate General had adopted a contradictory stand on this issue. This prompted the Tourism Minister Mickky Pacheco to announce the sealing of all activities on the errant five casinos in tune with Parrikar's demand for the same.
The issue had its genesis in the blatantly illegal way casinos continued operations in river Mandovi. Parrikar said their NOCs have long expired.
To start with, the Tourism Minister informed that letters have been served to all six owners of casino vessels directing them to shift from river Mandovi to outer anchorage at Aguada Bay. "Wherein, they have filed a writ petition in the High Court of Bombay at Goa challenging the said letters. The Advocate General made a statement that in the meanwhile, no action will be taken pursuant to the impugned communication," said Pacheco.
At this stage, Parrikar was quick to point to the Cabinet Note listed in the miscellaneous agenda of the cabinet meet dated 23 February, 2009. "While the AG's note mentions that the casino vessels need to be moved to the Aguada Bay as vessels in Mandovi face navigational problems, why did the AG tell the Court that no action has to be taken in this matter?" questioned Parrikar. "Why no action was taken after the NOCs of these vessels expired?" Parrikar asked Pacheco when the latter sought to take refuge under the premise that these vessels were asked to move to Aguada Bay after their NOCs had expired. "Why has the Captain of Ports not stopped operations on these five casinos when they are not having NOCs. Why are you not stopping operations other than plying on these five casinos? questioned Parrikar.
The issue took an interesting turn when the Speaker opined that the AG can be summoned to the House in case the Minister finds it difficult to justify his stand. Pacheco finally bowed to Parrikar's demand and promise to seal all activities on these five casinos.
PANJIM: All activities in five casinos operating in river Mandovi are to be sealed. These erring casinos continue to operate despite their NOCs having expired (See Box on Pg 2).
This matter echoed in the House yesterday as Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar pointed out to the glaring irregularities in this regard. Compounding matters further for the government, the opposition leader also showed how the Advocate General had adopted a contradictory stand on this issue. This prompted the Tourism Minister Mickky Pacheco to announce the sealing of all activities on the errant five casinos in tune with Parrikar's demand for the same.
The issue had its genesis in the blatantly illegal way casinos continued operations in river Mandovi. Parrikar said their NOCs have long expired.
To start with, the Tourism Minister informed that letters have been served to all six owners of casino vessels directing them to shift from river Mandovi to outer anchorage at Aguada Bay. "Wherein, they have filed a writ petition in the High Court of Bombay at Goa challenging the said letters. The Advocate General made a statement that in the meanwhile, no action will be taken pursuant to the impugned communication," said Pacheco.
At this stage, Parrikar was quick to point to the Cabinet Note listed in the miscellaneous agenda of the cabinet meet dated 23 February, 2009. "While the AG's note mentions that the casino vessels need to be moved to the Aguada Bay as vessels in Mandovi face navigational problems, why did the AG tell the Court that no action has to be taken in this matter?" questioned Parrikar. "Why no action was taken after the NOCs of these vessels expired?" Parrikar asked Pacheco when the latter sought to take refuge under the premise that these vessels were asked to move to Aguada Bay after their NOCs had expired. "Why has the Captain of Ports not stopped operations on these five casinos when they are not having NOCs. Why are you not stopping operations other than plying on these five casinos? questioned Parrikar.
The issue took an interesting turn when the Speaker opined that the AG can be summoned to the House in case the Minister finds it difficult to justify his stand. Pacheco finally bowed to Parrikar's demand and promise to seal all activities on these five casinos.
Govt to suspend erring policemen
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Home Minister Ravi Naik yesterday warned that the government would suspend any police officer refusing to register a complaint of any nature.
Ravi gave the warning while replying to the Demands for Grants for Police, Home, Prosecution, Jails, Home Guards, etc in the Legislative Assembly.
He said that persons visiting at the police station along with their grievances/complaints should be heard politely and their grievances solved. He said that reception counters had been opened at the police station in order to get friendly relation with the police. He said that community policing had been maintained and police-public interaction were held to solve their problems/grievances on the spot.
He said that a full-fledged missing person squad had been constituted to investigate and follow up cases of missing persons. It will maintain database of all missing persons anmd will help the various investigating officers at all police stations.
He strongly denied that the police transfer were effected in violation of the Supreme Court directives. He said that in pursuance of the directions by the apex court, the government had constituted Police Establishment Board to recommend the postings and transfers of officers of and above the rank of Superintendent of Police.
The Home Minister informed the member that the Goa Police would raise its second Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) comprising 1007 personnel, in order to tackle law and order problems and to strengthen the internal security of the state. The recruitment process for this battalion had already started while, the government was in the process of creating infrastructure for stationing Battalions at suitable place from where this manpower could be reached in shortest possible time at the place of need.
He told the House that the government was proposing to acquire Firing Training Simulator for improving the aiming and marks manship of the Goa police. He said that the Eagle Force launched recently would be expanded. The government is also considering to acquire Laser Speed Radar for the Police Traffic Cell, he said adding that full-fledged traffic cells would be set up at Curchorem, Calangute and Ponda.
He said that the government would procure additional weapons such as 150 rifle AK 47 folding butt 7.62 mm and 350 pistol Glock-269X19 mm under the police modernisation scheme.
He said that the process was on to recruit additional 250 Home Guards to supplement the workload of the Traffic Police, etc in the state. The government had enhanced the honorarium of Home Guards after seven years from Rs 150 per day to Rs 200 per day while, it was also examining the idea of providing comprehensive group insurance cover to Home Guards.
The Home Minister claimed that the conviction rate in courts in serious cases was high last year compared to 2007 and that police officers were sent to various Institutes in India for upgrading their investigating skills. Referring to the eight accused released on bail in connection with the seizure of swords case at Margao, Ravi said that the government would take appropriate decision to prosecute them under section 153-A of IPC.
Earlier, the opposition members charged that the government had failed to investigate the cases of temple desecration and failed to investigate the sword cases of Margao with seriousness it deserved. They said that the government failed to improve the conviction rates in courts and failed to curb menace of drug dealing.
The opposition members further alleged that the government failed to maintain sanctity of Supreme Court decision in matters of police transfer and failed to prevent politicisation of police transfers thereby making it ineffective.
PANJIM: Home Minister Ravi Naik yesterday warned that the government would suspend any police officer refusing to register a complaint of any nature.
Ravi gave the warning while replying to the Demands for Grants for Police, Home, Prosecution, Jails, Home Guards, etc in the Legislative Assembly.
He said that persons visiting at the police station along with their grievances/complaints should be heard politely and their grievances solved. He said that reception counters had been opened at the police station in order to get friendly relation with the police. He said that community policing had been maintained and police-public interaction were held to solve their problems/grievances on the spot.
He said that a full-fledged missing person squad had been constituted to investigate and follow up cases of missing persons. It will maintain database of all missing persons anmd will help the various investigating officers at all police stations.
He strongly denied that the police transfer were effected in violation of the Supreme Court directives. He said that in pursuance of the directions by the apex court, the government had constituted Police Establishment Board to recommend the postings and transfers of officers of and above the rank of Superintendent of Police.
The Home Minister informed the member that the Goa Police would raise its second Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) comprising 1007 personnel, in order to tackle law and order problems and to strengthen the internal security of the state. The recruitment process for this battalion had already started while, the government was in the process of creating infrastructure for stationing Battalions at suitable place from where this manpower could be reached in shortest possible time at the place of need.
He told the House that the government was proposing to acquire Firing Training Simulator for improving the aiming and marks manship of the Goa police. He said that the Eagle Force launched recently would be expanded. The government is also considering to acquire Laser Speed Radar for the Police Traffic Cell, he said adding that full-fledged traffic cells would be set up at Curchorem, Calangute and Ponda.
He said that the government would procure additional weapons such as 150 rifle AK 47 folding butt 7.62 mm and 350 pistol Glock-269X19 mm under the police modernisation scheme.
He said that the process was on to recruit additional 250 Home Guards to supplement the workload of the Traffic Police, etc in the state. The government had enhanced the honorarium of Home Guards after seven years from Rs 150 per day to Rs 200 per day while, it was also examining the idea of providing comprehensive group insurance cover to Home Guards.
The Home Minister claimed that the conviction rate in courts in serious cases was high last year compared to 2007 and that police officers were sent to various Institutes in India for upgrading their investigating skills. Referring to the eight accused released on bail in connection with the seizure of swords case at Margao, Ravi said that the government would take appropriate decision to prosecute them under section 153-A of IPC.
Earlier, the opposition members charged that the government had failed to investigate the cases of temple desecration and failed to investigate the sword cases of Margao with seriousness it deserved. They said that the government failed to improve the conviction rates in courts and failed to curb menace of drug dealing.
The opposition members further alleged that the government failed to maintain sanctity of Supreme Court decision in matters of police transfer and failed to prevent politicisation of police transfers thereby making it ineffective.
Exit mining, enter service industry
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: A growth rate of 10 per cent per annum; gradual decline of the primary sector and rise of the service or tertiary sector are all indications that the Goan economy is modernizing and the state is marching ahead.
Figures mentioned in the Economic Survey 2008-09 which was released yesterday showed that the contribution of the primary sector comprising agriculture, mining, fishing and forests to the state domestic product has declined from 11.3 per cent in 2001-02 to 10.42 per cent in 2007-08.
The number of workers in the agriculture sector has declined from 60 per cent of the total workforce in 1960 to 27.5 % in 1991 to 16.6 % according to the 2001 census.
“This may be attributed to the high cost of cultivation, pressure on land due to heavy urbanization leading to less economic viability in relative terms,” the reports stated.
The value added by forestry and logging also declined in real terms as cutting trees is banned in the state.
Admitting that fish production is the state had remained static, the report noted that in 2008 the total fish catch was 93,000 tonnes as compared to 94,000 tonnes the previous year.
At the time of liberation mining contributed about 17 per cent of the state income. Today the value added by the sector is les than 4 %.
However, the secondary sector, which included manufacturing units, electricity, gas, water supply and construction, has grown to fill in the void created by the decline of the primary sector.
The share of value addition in the state domestic product under this sector has increased from 8 % at the time of liberation to 34.34 per cent at present.
The pride of place goes to the tertiary sector, which led by the tourism industry, has become the main stay of the Goan economy. This sector has grown in leaps and bounds, increasing from 49.26 per cent in 2001-02 to 55.24 % in 2007-08.
In keeping with the demands of the 11th five year plan, the government now plans to focus on fast inclusive growth with greater emphasis on social security, enhanced quality of education and health care facilities, quality infrastructure, water supply, solid waste management and IT knowledge economy.
The expenditure in the first two years of the 11th five year plan has risen from Rs 1224.50 crore in in 2007-08 to Rs 1400. 89 crore in 2008-09.
PANJIM: A growth rate of 10 per cent per annum; gradual decline of the primary sector and rise of the service or tertiary sector are all indications that the Goan economy is modernizing and the state is marching ahead.
Figures mentioned in the Economic Survey 2008-09 which was released yesterday showed that the contribution of the primary sector comprising agriculture, mining, fishing and forests to the state domestic product has declined from 11.3 per cent in 2001-02 to 10.42 per cent in 2007-08.
The number of workers in the agriculture sector has declined from 60 per cent of the total workforce in 1960 to 27.5 % in 1991 to 16.6 % according to the 2001 census.
“This may be attributed to the high cost of cultivation, pressure on land due to heavy urbanization leading to less economic viability in relative terms,” the reports stated.
The value added by forestry and logging also declined in real terms as cutting trees is banned in the state.
Admitting that fish production is the state had remained static, the report noted that in 2008 the total fish catch was 93,000 tonnes as compared to 94,000 tonnes the previous year.
At the time of liberation mining contributed about 17 per cent of the state income. Today the value added by the sector is les than 4 %.
However, the secondary sector, which included manufacturing units, electricity, gas, water supply and construction, has grown to fill in the void created by the decline of the primary sector.
The share of value addition in the state domestic product under this sector has increased from 8 % at the time of liberation to 34.34 per cent at present.
The pride of place goes to the tertiary sector, which led by the tourism industry, has become the main stay of the Goan economy. This sector has grown in leaps and bounds, increasing from 49.26 per cent in 2001-02 to 55.24 % in 2007-08.
In keeping with the demands of the 11th five year plan, the government now plans to focus on fast inclusive growth with greater emphasis on social security, enhanced quality of education and health care facilities, quality infrastructure, water supply, solid waste management and IT knowledge economy.
The expenditure in the first two years of the 11th five year plan has risen from Rs 1224.50 crore in in 2007-08 to Rs 1400. 89 crore in 2008-09.
IN BLACK AND WHITE
‘Chorao-Madel p’yat fails to utilise grants’
BY GERARD D'SOUZA
PANJIM: While many panchayats claim shortage of funds, and others say they can just about manage, the Village Panchayat of Chorao-Madel has in hand a total closing balance of Rs 12.47 lakh.
According to the Audit report for the year 2007-08, the panchayat recorded a total income of Rs 19.76 lakh of which 8.06 lakh came in the form of government grants and the rest in the form of taxes and royalties collected by the panchayat.
However the large amount of money in hand is not necessarily a good sign. A bulk of this finds its source in unutilized funds of the panchayat. The panchayat has not spent a paise on either the Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana (SGRA) or the Goa Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. This despite the government allotting one-lakh under the SGRA during the year and the panchayat itself having almost 4-lakh carried over from the previous year under the two schemes.
A total of 7.5 lakh has remained in the kitty of these two schemes making up more than half of the closing balance.
The audit report also pointed out various irregularities by the panchayat. The Sarpanch has not certified the paid bills towards stationery etc. So also he has not attested the entries in the cash book. The panchayat has not maintained a separate cash book for the GREGS and SGRY schemes and has instead incorporated the entries in the general cash book.
The panchayat has exceeded its prescribed limit of 25,000 on expenditure purchased stationery by Rs 6,227.
This is not the case of this year itself but ever since 2000-01. Thus the total exceeded expenditure has touched Rs 74,047 which has not been approved. The report suggests that the panchayat obtain approval for this expenditure.
The audit report also found that during the year the panchayat collected Rs 2.75 lakh of taxes which amounts to just 36% percent of the total demand. Of the Rs 4.82 lakh of all (House, professional, light, cycle, cart and dog taxes), yet to be collected Rs 3.56 lakh itself comes from house tax.
Besides this, the last re-assessment of house tax was done in the year 1999-2000 and was valid up to the year 2003.
Reassessment of taxes which was due in the year 2005-06 has not been done till date.
It has also been brought to notice that the panchayat has executed various sundry jobs at the cost of Rs 18,575 and has not kept any record of the same and hence the reasonablity of the payments could not be verified in the audit.
The panchayat also issued 23 construction licences during the year and collected Rs 71,417 all of which has been found in order. However in the case if illegal constructions, another three cases cropped up during the year adding to the existing eight making the number of unsettled cases to 11, none of which were settled during the year.
The audit report ends by suggesting that the Panchayat improve it financial position by making all efforts to recover arrears of taxes and rent amounting to Rs 4.86 lakh along with a 10% penalty.
BY GERARD D'SOUZA
PANJIM: While many panchayats claim shortage of funds, and others say they can just about manage, the Village Panchayat of Chorao-Madel has in hand a total closing balance of Rs 12.47 lakh.
According to the Audit report for the year 2007-08, the panchayat recorded a total income of Rs 19.76 lakh of which 8.06 lakh came in the form of government grants and the rest in the form of taxes and royalties collected by the panchayat.
However the large amount of money in hand is not necessarily a good sign. A bulk of this finds its source in unutilized funds of the panchayat. The panchayat has not spent a paise on either the Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana (SGRA) or the Goa Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. This despite the government allotting one-lakh under the SGRA during the year and the panchayat itself having almost 4-lakh carried over from the previous year under the two schemes.
A total of 7.5 lakh has remained in the kitty of these two schemes making up more than half of the closing balance.
The audit report also pointed out various irregularities by the panchayat. The Sarpanch has not certified the paid bills towards stationery etc. So also he has not attested the entries in the cash book. The panchayat has not maintained a separate cash book for the GREGS and SGRY schemes and has instead incorporated the entries in the general cash book.
The panchayat has exceeded its prescribed limit of 25,000 on expenditure purchased stationery by Rs 6,227.
This is not the case of this year itself but ever since 2000-01. Thus the total exceeded expenditure has touched Rs 74,047 which has not been approved. The report suggests that the panchayat obtain approval for this expenditure.
The audit report also found that during the year the panchayat collected Rs 2.75 lakh of taxes which amounts to just 36% percent of the total demand. Of the Rs 4.82 lakh of all (House, professional, light, cycle, cart and dog taxes), yet to be collected Rs 3.56 lakh itself comes from house tax.
Besides this, the last re-assessment of house tax was done in the year 1999-2000 and was valid up to the year 2003.
Reassessment of taxes which was due in the year 2005-06 has not been done till date.
It has also been brought to notice that the panchayat has executed various sundry jobs at the cost of Rs 18,575 and has not kept any record of the same and hence the reasonablity of the payments could not be verified in the audit.
The panchayat also issued 23 construction licences during the year and collected Rs 71,417 all of which has been found in order. However in the case if illegal constructions, another three cases cropped up during the year adding to the existing eight making the number of unsettled cases to 11, none of which were settled during the year.
The audit report ends by suggesting that the Panchayat improve it financial position by making all efforts to recover arrears of taxes and rent amounting to Rs 4.86 lakh along with a 10% penalty.
Jose Philip promises inquiry
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: The Minister for Factories and Boilers Jose Filipe D'Souza yesterday promised to inquire into the reasons leading to the blast in Global Ispat. The assurance came close on the heels of Fatorda MLA Damodar Naik highlighting negligence of the operator to be the main cause behind the blast.
Naik said the negligence of the operator handling the ground leakage relay trip led to molten lava at 1500 degrees celsius into water which caused the blast. He wanted to know whether the attendance register of that day was confiscated by the authorities. Earlier, the Minister was quick to inform that out of a total of eight inspectors recruited for inspection, the Department was left with just four inspectors. Naik charged that there was no industrial safety in Goa as exemplified by the blast. On his part, the Minister promised to inquire into the blast at Global Ispat.
Art and culture
The Art and Culture Department will now have to conduct an awareness drive of their schemes under the Tribal Sub Plan for the benefit of tribal communities. For this, they will hold meetings with tribal clubs to take this task to its logical conclusion. Chief Minister Digambar Kamat assured Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar to undertake such an exercise in tune with the demands of the latter.
Earlier, Tawadkar wanted the government to sanction grants earmarked under the Tribal Sub Plan to tribal cultural groups.
He expressed concern over the non-disbursal of grants despite their availabilty under the aforesaid Plan. Rising to reply, Kamat said Rs 123 lakhs under the Plan are earmarked this year for disbursal to cultural groups. This disbursal, Kamat said, varies in accordance with the nature of Sammelans divided into different categories -- national level, state level and taluka level. " While increasing the disbursal of grants, we see that the limit is within the system," informed the Chief Minister.
Desilting of Valvanti river
The government has been undertaking desilting of Valvanti river in Bicholim taluka at an expenditure of Rs 6.6 crores, informed Minister for Water Resources Filip Neri Rodrigues. While two tenders have already been floated, the third one is expected to be in the pipeline soon. A retaining wall of 300 metres will also be built, promised Rodrigues. Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar wanted the government to acquire some land for this purpose, Rodrigues requested Patnekar's help for obtaining NOC from the land owner.
PANJIM: The Minister for Factories and Boilers Jose Filipe D'Souza yesterday promised to inquire into the reasons leading to the blast in Global Ispat. The assurance came close on the heels of Fatorda MLA Damodar Naik highlighting negligence of the operator to be the main cause behind the blast.
Naik said the negligence of the operator handling the ground leakage relay trip led to molten lava at 1500 degrees celsius into water which caused the blast. He wanted to know whether the attendance register of that day was confiscated by the authorities. Earlier, the Minister was quick to inform that out of a total of eight inspectors recruited for inspection, the Department was left with just four inspectors. Naik charged that there was no industrial safety in Goa as exemplified by the blast. On his part, the Minister promised to inquire into the blast at Global Ispat.
Art and culture
The Art and Culture Department will now have to conduct an awareness drive of their schemes under the Tribal Sub Plan for the benefit of tribal communities. For this, they will hold meetings with tribal clubs to take this task to its logical conclusion. Chief Minister Digambar Kamat assured Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar to undertake such an exercise in tune with the demands of the latter.
Earlier, Tawadkar wanted the government to sanction grants earmarked under the Tribal Sub Plan to tribal cultural groups.
He expressed concern over the non-disbursal of grants despite their availabilty under the aforesaid Plan. Rising to reply, Kamat said Rs 123 lakhs under the Plan are earmarked this year for disbursal to cultural groups. This disbursal, Kamat said, varies in accordance with the nature of Sammelans divided into different categories -- national level, state level and taluka level. " While increasing the disbursal of grants, we see that the limit is within the system," informed the Chief Minister.
Desilting of Valvanti river
The government has been undertaking desilting of Valvanti river in Bicholim taluka at an expenditure of Rs 6.6 crores, informed Minister for Water Resources Filip Neri Rodrigues. While two tenders have already been floated, the third one is expected to be in the pipeline soon. A retaining wall of 300 metres will also be built, promised Rodrigues. Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar wanted the government to acquire some land for this purpose, Rodrigues requested Patnekar's help for obtaining NOC from the land owner.
Oppose Bainguinim garbage site, CSJP urges all MLAs
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) yesterday furnished memorandum to individual legislators asking to withdraw the Bainguinim site as garbage dumping ground. Spokesperson for CSJP Fr Maverick Fernandes told GT that it issued the said letters to all 40 legislators, yesterday.
Besides, a circular was read at all Churches of Goa on Sunday asking parishioners to come together to oppose the Bainguinim site for dumping garbage, since it would harm the historical monuments in Old Goa. The circular was re-sent to all Churches, which was earlier submitted to the Government in March 2008 citing various reasons on why the site should not be acquired.
“Despite that the government in course of time acquired the land at Bainguinim to unload garbage. We made another representation asking not to hand over the site to Corporation of City of Panaji (CCP) because soon after the garbage dumping session would begin it would harm the historical monuments, religious institutions, etc in the area,” Fr Maverick spoke to GT over the government’s failure to heed to the issue, put forth several times. The organisation has appealed the parishioners to request their concerned MLAs across the state to make use of their office to oppose the site. Expressing grave concern over the issue, Fr Maverick said, “This is not only confined to Old Goa but all over the state.
This place is an important venue for various reasons. Also, if a garbage site begins here, UNESCO may de-notify the already notified monuments.”
PANJIM: Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) yesterday furnished memorandum to individual legislators asking to withdraw the Bainguinim site as garbage dumping ground. Spokesperson for CSJP Fr Maverick Fernandes told GT that it issued the said letters to all 40 legislators, yesterday.
Besides, a circular was read at all Churches of Goa on Sunday asking parishioners to come together to oppose the Bainguinim site for dumping garbage, since it would harm the historical monuments in Old Goa. The circular was re-sent to all Churches, which was earlier submitted to the Government in March 2008 citing various reasons on why the site should not be acquired.
“Despite that the government in course of time acquired the land at Bainguinim to unload garbage. We made another representation asking not to hand over the site to Corporation of City of Panaji (CCP) because soon after the garbage dumping session would begin it would harm the historical monuments, religious institutions, etc in the area,” Fr Maverick spoke to GT over the government’s failure to heed to the issue, put forth several times. The organisation has appealed the parishioners to request their concerned MLAs across the state to make use of their office to oppose the site. Expressing grave concern over the issue, Fr Maverick said, “This is not only confined to Old Goa but all over the state.
This place is an important venue for various reasons. Also, if a garbage site begins here, UNESCO may de-notify the already notified monuments.”
Goa Board grants recognition to Cambridge students
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM:The Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has announced its recognition for students holding Cambridge IGCSE qualifications from University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). The announcement agrees with the prior notification from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
The regulation states that ‘Students passing out with five subjects from University of Cambridge International Examinations have been granted equivalency by this Board. It is further informed that this Board grants equivalency on a case by case basis only after referring the same to the Association of Indian Universities.’ The regulation means that five Cambridge IGCSE passes of Grade C or above are equivalent to Standard X from any Indian board.
Ian Chambers, CIE Regional Manager, South Asia welcomed the announcement. He said: ‘The decision by the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education recognises that Cambridge IGCSE is a gateway to progression in Goa. It is good news for Cambridge students in Goa because it will smooth their progression to Plus 2 studies if they so choose.
Goa joins a number of states across India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, who clearly welcome Cambridge students.’
CIE qualifications are accepted by universities across the world and within India, and are recognised as a benchmark of academic success at Grade X and Plus Two.
PANJIM:The Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has announced its recognition for students holding Cambridge IGCSE qualifications from University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). The announcement agrees with the prior notification from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
The regulation states that ‘Students passing out with five subjects from University of Cambridge International Examinations have been granted equivalency by this Board. It is further informed that this Board grants equivalency on a case by case basis only after referring the same to the Association of Indian Universities.’ The regulation means that five Cambridge IGCSE passes of Grade C or above are equivalent to Standard X from any Indian board.
Ian Chambers, CIE Regional Manager, South Asia welcomed the announcement. He said: ‘The decision by the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education recognises that Cambridge IGCSE is a gateway to progression in Goa. It is good news for Cambridge students in Goa because it will smooth their progression to Plus 2 studies if they so choose.
Goa joins a number of states across India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, who clearly welcome Cambridge students.’
CIE qualifications are accepted by universities across the world and within India, and are recognised as a benchmark of academic success at Grade X and Plus Two.
‘Mining in Korgao to be stopped’
Parrikar, Sopte, Parsekar cry foul on illegal mines
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Illegal excavation of ore from Korgao mines in Pernem taluka and the illegally set up washing plant in the river bed figured in the House during the Question Hour yesterday.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat promised to stop this activity at Korgao with immediate effect.
Pernem MLA Dayanand Sopte highlighted the irregularities in the mining activity at Korgao and was supported by opposition leader Manohar Parrikar and Mandrem MLA Laxmikant Parsekar.
After lodging a complaint against this activity in Korgao in November, Sopte said the Committee paid a visit to the site without informing the complainant -- the Korgao panchayat.
He was also irked over the non-submission of the report by the Committee's after its visit.
" The mine does not have a licence, it does not have permission from Mines Department and now the construction of huts is in progress. Yet, the Committee has taken no action," claimed Sopte.
According to Sopte, the mine owner claims that this mine is in his private property.
Parrikar stated that out of 42 mines inspected by the Committee, the Action Taken Reports(ATRs) in 30 matters relates to Departments like Wild Life, Forests and Water Resources.
Parrikar pointed out that the mining activity carried out in the forest areas, especially in mine no 20/51 at Maulinguem (Sanguem) in Mahavir Wild Life sanctuary and washing plant illegally set up in the river bed in Sanguem.
" The Director of Mines is the Member Secretary of this Committee.
In case he comes across an illegal mine, he still waits for the report of the Committee?," Parrikar asked the House.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat informed that after the inspection, mining activity in Korgao was stopped. Parrikar took strong objection to this by categorically stating that the mining activity continues in Korgao.
It was at this stage that the Chief Minister rose to assure the House that this activity will be stopped with immediate effect.
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Illegal excavation of ore from Korgao mines in Pernem taluka and the illegally set up washing plant in the river bed figured in the House during the Question Hour yesterday.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat promised to stop this activity at Korgao with immediate effect.
Pernem MLA Dayanand Sopte highlighted the irregularities in the mining activity at Korgao and was supported by opposition leader Manohar Parrikar and Mandrem MLA Laxmikant Parsekar.
After lodging a complaint against this activity in Korgao in November, Sopte said the Committee paid a visit to the site without informing the complainant -- the Korgao panchayat.
He was also irked over the non-submission of the report by the Committee's after its visit.
" The mine does not have a licence, it does not have permission from Mines Department and now the construction of huts is in progress. Yet, the Committee has taken no action," claimed Sopte.
According to Sopte, the mine owner claims that this mine is in his private property.
Parrikar stated that out of 42 mines inspected by the Committee, the Action Taken Reports(ATRs) in 30 matters relates to Departments like Wild Life, Forests and Water Resources.
Parrikar pointed out that the mining activity carried out in the forest areas, especially in mine no 20/51 at Maulinguem (Sanguem) in Mahavir Wild Life sanctuary and washing plant illegally set up in the river bed in Sanguem.
" The Director of Mines is the Member Secretary of this Committee.
In case he comes across an illegal mine, he still waits for the report of the Committee?," Parrikar asked the House.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat informed that after the inspection, mining activity in Korgao was stopped. Parrikar took strong objection to this by categorically stating that the mining activity continues in Korgao.
It was at this stage that the Chief Minister rose to assure the House that this activity will be stopped with immediate effect.
NEW HEROES
Assolna villagers unite to set DRP 2021 right
Major heritage landmarks, roads, bridges were left out
BY SHENON LEMOS
ASSOLNA: Just like other Goan villages, Assolna was no exception as the villagers found most of its landmarks left out from the Regional Plan (RP) 2021 that had been prepared by the Task Force appointed by the government.
Responsible denizens of Assolna held ward-wise meetings to provide an opportunity to the residents of Assolna to express their views about the RP 2021.
The village committee comprised of approximately 21 members, including the panchayat members held eight meetings wherein the committee members interacted with the officials of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) at the village panchayat office.
Town Planner S M Bykod and draughtsman Francisco D'Sousa gave their valuable assistance to Assonakars in understanding the maps better.
"At the gram sabha, we were nominated by our villagers. While I, too had an earnest feeling to do something for my village by protecting our land and minimising any further damage," exclaimed a committe member, Tony Fernandes who is a business man, by profession.
Sunny Dias, an engineer added "We were not aware what was wrong with the earlier RP 2011, so this time I thought it would be a good opportunity to know more about this RP 2021 and do something for my village, so I, too, pitched in."
Hurdles faced
Difficulties did arise, as the data supplied to us was of poor quality, informed Sunny.
"Out of the three maps supplied to the Assolna panchayat, two maps are of the village of Assolna (scale 1:5000) wherein the maps contained many errors and omissions. Our village panchayat on one map was denoted as VP-l, while on the other, it is shown as VP-3, confusing the real facts," he added.
"As per the plan provided many internal village roads were depicted incomplete or shown in the wrong place and wrong scale. No distinction was made between the actual existing roads, bridges and the proposed development. A non-existent bridge has been shown to exist at the ferry point, a few hundred meters downstream from the existing bridge over the River Sal," he remarked.
"The village committee tried its best with the limited resources at its disposal to correct these errors by putting forth a new plan for our village," stated the Assolna sarpanch Joaquim.
Landmarks missed
Some of the landmarks that were missed out in the map included Regina Martyrum Church, Regina Martyrum cemeteries (old and new), Monument of Christ the King, Regina Martyrum School. "The monument of Christ the King is a heritage structure. The only one of its kind in India and probably the second in Asia (the other being in Karachi-Pakistan) so we have made the necessary changes," stated Tony.
Besides, the Maruti Temple (Orel), Bethal temple (Assolna village square), Hindu crematorium (the southern bank of the River Sal upstream of the existing bridge). These religious structures that are of great significance to our Hindu residents were also missed out, the Assolna resident pointed out.
The huge cross monument in the village square also of great historical significance and other public utilities and buildings such as the village post office, market complex, Lohia Chowk, sports complex, Children's Park were also included in the new plan.
Comments about satisfaction
When asked whether they were satisfied about the task set before them of preparing the plan for the entire Assolna village?
Sunny said, "whether the plan set up by us is taken into account or not, will remain a question. But I wanted to do something for my village and I am satisfied that I was a part of the committee." Tony opined, "Satisfaction depends, if recommendations put forth by us, is taken into account and is implemented. That would be a great feeling. But if this is an eyewash exercise, then it will be very disappointing. But if our suggestions are taken into the new Regional Plan 2021 then things for our state also will move into the right decision."
Major heritage landmarks, roads, bridges were left out
BY SHENON LEMOS
ASSOLNA: Just like other Goan villages, Assolna was no exception as the villagers found most of its landmarks left out from the Regional Plan (RP) 2021 that had been prepared by the Task Force appointed by the government.
Responsible denizens of Assolna held ward-wise meetings to provide an opportunity to the residents of Assolna to express their views about the RP 2021.
The village committee comprised of approximately 21 members, including the panchayat members held eight meetings wherein the committee members interacted with the officials of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) at the village panchayat office.
Town Planner S M Bykod and draughtsman Francisco D'Sousa gave their valuable assistance to Assonakars in understanding the maps better.
"At the gram sabha, we were nominated by our villagers. While I, too had an earnest feeling to do something for my village by protecting our land and minimising any further damage," exclaimed a committe member, Tony Fernandes who is a business man, by profession.
Sunny Dias, an engineer added "We were not aware what was wrong with the earlier RP 2011, so this time I thought it would be a good opportunity to know more about this RP 2021 and do something for my village, so I, too, pitched in."
Hurdles faced
Difficulties did arise, as the data supplied to us was of poor quality, informed Sunny.
"Out of the three maps supplied to the Assolna panchayat, two maps are of the village of Assolna (scale 1:5000) wherein the maps contained many errors and omissions. Our village panchayat on one map was denoted as VP-l, while on the other, it is shown as VP-3, confusing the real facts," he added.
"As per the plan provided many internal village roads were depicted incomplete or shown in the wrong place and wrong scale. No distinction was made between the actual existing roads, bridges and the proposed development. A non-existent bridge has been shown to exist at the ferry point, a few hundred meters downstream from the existing bridge over the River Sal," he remarked.
"The village committee tried its best with the limited resources at its disposal to correct these errors by putting forth a new plan for our village," stated the Assolna sarpanch Joaquim.
Landmarks missed
Some of the landmarks that were missed out in the map included Regina Martyrum Church, Regina Martyrum cemeteries (old and new), Monument of Christ the King, Regina Martyrum School. "The monument of Christ the King is a heritage structure. The only one of its kind in India and probably the second in Asia (the other being in Karachi-Pakistan) so we have made the necessary changes," stated Tony.
Besides, the Maruti Temple (Orel), Bethal temple (Assolna village square), Hindu crematorium (the southern bank of the River Sal upstream of the existing bridge). These religious structures that are of great significance to our Hindu residents were also missed out, the Assolna resident pointed out.
The huge cross monument in the village square also of great historical significance and other public utilities and buildings such as the village post office, market complex, Lohia Chowk, sports complex, Children's Park were also included in the new plan.
Comments about satisfaction
When asked whether they were satisfied about the task set before them of preparing the plan for the entire Assolna village?
Sunny said, "whether the plan set up by us is taken into account or not, will remain a question. But I wanted to do something for my village and I am satisfied that I was a part of the committee." Tony opined, "Satisfaction depends, if recommendations put forth by us, is taken into account and is implemented. That would be a great feeling. But if this is an eyewash exercise, then it will be very disappointing. But if our suggestions are taken into the new Regional Plan 2021 then things for our state also will move into the right decision."
Two days before season, Cutbona a ghost town
BY A GT CORRESPONDENT
CHANDOR: With not a soul in sight, Cutbona fishing jetty resembles a ghost town. However, just two days from now, the place will be teeming with activity.
With the the fishing season all set to commence on August 1, with the lifting of the fishing ban the place will spring to life once again.
Currently, most of the establishments at the jetty are closed. These include the tea and snack stalls, the restaurants serving thali, the liquor outlets and even the petrol pumps.
There are two petrol pumps at Cutbona. While one pump is managed by the Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society, the other is run by South Goa Mechanised Boat Owners Co-operative and Marketing Society.
According to Aldrin Crasto, manager of the pump operated by Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society, on the first two days of the season, they expect to sell at least 25 kilo litres of diesel per day. Subsequently, on an average, the pump sells 8 to 9 KL of diesel a day.
At the other pump, the daily sale of diesel is between 8 to 10 kilo litres while on the first two days, the sales are expected to be 16 kilo litres per day disclosed Kapil Ghotge, its owner.
The Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society caters to around 70 smaller vessels which have a three-cylinder engine and another 70 vessels that have six-cylinder engines.
The South Goa Mechanised Boat Owners Co-operative and Marketing Society, has 70 members who collectively own 112 vessels.
Currently, a few vessels are anchored at the jetty where minor repairs like painting and polishing is going on. However, most of the vessels are hoisted on land on the other bank of the river where repairs are underway.
The staff employed on these vessels are scheduled to arrive only from July 28 July onwards.
On an average a trawler has six labourers and one tandel or the captain. However, the purseine vessels carry around 20 labourers along with two tandel, two arimen and one mastman.
While the tandel steers the vessel and the airman supervises the laying of the net, the mastman has to spot the shoal.
The labourers are paid around Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,500 per month, the mastman earns around Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000. The tandel is paid around Rs. 7,000 while the ariman earns around Rs 10,000 per month. However, at the time of a bumper catch, they are rewarded with hefty bonuses.
The tandels and arimen are from Karnataka, the labourers come from states like Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Chattisgarh, Jharkand and Karnataka.
On an average, 200 others are employed in ancillary services like weighing of the catch and loading it onto pick-ups.
On an average, around 20 pick-ups owned by local Goans, transport the catch to the local markets. Similarly, around 10 refrigerated vans transport fish to Kerala and others parts where it is processed or exported.
However, whenever there is a sardine catch there are around 30 pick-ups and 50 refrigerated vans.
The Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society also runs an ice plant at the site. On an average smaller vessels carry 5 tonnes of ice, while the larger ones carry 10 tonnes. Besides, the agents who purchase the catch, use at least 25 tonnes of ice every day.
Once the season commences, the Assolna market is a major beneficiary. On an average, each vessel daily requires minimum 25 kg of rice for the staff employed. Besides, other requirements like condiments, masala, vegetables and coconuts are purchased from Thursday bazaar at Assolna or otherwise from Margao.
The staff is also provided a gas cylinder and stove to can cook their meals on the vessel itself, which incidentally is also their living quarters.
Sanitation is however not taken very seriously by the owners. The staff uses the sulabh facilities provided at the jetty which is inadequate for the quantum of people involved and some of the vessel owners have constructed toilets adjacent to their sheds used to store implements and nets.
“Mostly the staff use the dinghy attached to the vessel to do their jobs out in the sea,” admitted one vessel owner.
CHANDOR: With not a soul in sight, Cutbona fishing jetty resembles a ghost town. However, just two days from now, the place will be teeming with activity.
With the the fishing season all set to commence on August 1, with the lifting of the fishing ban the place will spring to life once again.
Currently, most of the establishments at the jetty are closed. These include the tea and snack stalls, the restaurants serving thali, the liquor outlets and even the petrol pumps.
There are two petrol pumps at Cutbona. While one pump is managed by the Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society, the other is run by South Goa Mechanised Boat Owners Co-operative and Marketing Society.
According to Aldrin Crasto, manager of the pump operated by Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society, on the first two days of the season, they expect to sell at least 25 kilo litres of diesel per day. Subsequently, on an average, the pump sells 8 to 9 KL of diesel a day.
At the other pump, the daily sale of diesel is between 8 to 10 kilo litres while on the first two days, the sales are expected to be 16 kilo litres per day disclosed Kapil Ghotge, its owner.
The Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society caters to around 70 smaller vessels which have a three-cylinder engine and another 70 vessels that have six-cylinder engines.
The South Goa Mechanised Boat Owners Co-operative and Marketing Society, has 70 members who collectively own 112 vessels.
Currently, a few vessels are anchored at the jetty where minor repairs like painting and polishing is going on. However, most of the vessels are hoisted on land on the other bank of the river where repairs are underway.
The staff employed on these vessels are scheduled to arrive only from July 28 July onwards.
On an average a trawler has six labourers and one tandel or the captain. However, the purseine vessels carry around 20 labourers along with two tandel, two arimen and one mastman.
While the tandel steers the vessel and the airman supervises the laying of the net, the mastman has to spot the shoal.
The labourers are paid around Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,500 per month, the mastman earns around Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000. The tandel is paid around Rs. 7,000 while the ariman earns around Rs 10,000 per month. However, at the time of a bumper catch, they are rewarded with hefty bonuses.
The tandels and arimen are from Karnataka, the labourers come from states like Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Chattisgarh, Jharkand and Karnataka.
On an average, 200 others are employed in ancillary services like weighing of the catch and loading it onto pick-ups.
On an average, around 20 pick-ups owned by local Goans, transport the catch to the local markets. Similarly, around 10 refrigerated vans transport fish to Kerala and others parts where it is processed or exported.
However, whenever there is a sardine catch there are around 30 pick-ups and 50 refrigerated vans.
The Cutbona Fisheries Co-operative Society also runs an ice plant at the site. On an average smaller vessels carry 5 tonnes of ice, while the larger ones carry 10 tonnes. Besides, the agents who purchase the catch, use at least 25 tonnes of ice every day.
Once the season commences, the Assolna market is a major beneficiary. On an average, each vessel daily requires minimum 25 kg of rice for the staff employed. Besides, other requirements like condiments, masala, vegetables and coconuts are purchased from Thursday bazaar at Assolna or otherwise from Margao.
The staff is also provided a gas cylinder and stove to can cook their meals on the vessel itself, which incidentally is also their living quarters.
Sanitation is however not taken very seriously by the owners. The staff uses the sulabh facilities provided at the jetty which is inadequate for the quantum of people involved and some of the vessel owners have constructed toilets adjacent to their sheds used to store implements and nets.
“Mostly the staff use the dinghy attached to the vessel to do their jobs out in the sea,” admitted one vessel owner.
Selaulim Botanical garden’s entry fee scrapped
BY A GT REPORTER
PANJIM: Despite the incomplete nature of the proposed Botanical garden at Selaulim, the government charges an entrance fee from its visitors.
The fees are charged to reduce the expenditure to be incurred to complete the work of this garden in three phases. This peeved Sanguem MLA Vasudev Gaonkar who put forth two demands.
Firstly, to abolish the fee imposed on visitors and to increase the proposed expenditure on this garden.
While the Minister for Forests Philip Neri Rodrigues caved into to the demand on the abolition of the fee, he was not very forthcoming on scaling up the expenditure on this proposed garden.
While it was Gaonkar's contention that an expenditure of Rs 15 crores was proposed on this Botanical garden at Selaulim, Rodrigues reply pegged the proposed expenditure for all three phases at Rs 8 crores, spread over three years.
" We will try to find out as to why the expenditure has been reduced," said Rodrigues. Gaonkar pointed out to the futility and absurdity of the fees charged even when the project is yet to be completed. According to Rodrigues, the fees were charged on a trial basis by the Forest Corporation.
PANJIM: Despite the incomplete nature of the proposed Botanical garden at Selaulim, the government charges an entrance fee from its visitors.
The fees are charged to reduce the expenditure to be incurred to complete the work of this garden in three phases. This peeved Sanguem MLA Vasudev Gaonkar who put forth two demands.
Firstly, to abolish the fee imposed on visitors and to increase the proposed expenditure on this garden.
While the Minister for Forests Philip Neri Rodrigues caved into to the demand on the abolition of the fee, he was not very forthcoming on scaling up the expenditure on this proposed garden.
While it was Gaonkar's contention that an expenditure of Rs 15 crores was proposed on this Botanical garden at Selaulim, Rodrigues reply pegged the proposed expenditure for all three phases at Rs 8 crores, spread over three years.
" We will try to find out as to why the expenditure has been reduced," said Rodrigues. Gaonkar pointed out to the futility and absurdity of the fees charged even when the project is yet to be completed. According to Rodrigues, the fees were charged on a trial basis by the Forest Corporation.
Advalpal villagers to move court
Upset with mining sludge entering homes
By A GT Correspondent
BICHOLIM: The villagers of Advalpal, Bicholim have decided to move to court against mining companies who have paid no heed to public grievances with regard to the mining silt despite repeated requests to curb mining menace.
Adressing a press conference on Sunday, the villagers said that, they are forced to take this extreme step as the government has failed to solve their problem.
It is understood that, villagers from Warche, Advalpal area are most affected as their residential area is a a low lying area at the foothill called 'Oraso Dongor' and 'Kalsanicho Matho' where the natural reservoirs of springs flows towards the Assnora irrigation project via Warchawada, Advalpal.
However, these natural springs and water reservoirs have been destroyed due to mining silt consequently which results into water scarcity during summer. “The mining excavation from this area which had been standstill for some years has started again due to which the springs have dried up due the silt” stated Gajanan Palkar, a resident of this area.
On June 6 when incessant rainfall lashed the state, villagers stated that mining slush from the mining pit on the mountain entered their houses as flow of one of the nullah's was diverted towards the opposite direction where the work of another industry was in progress consequently resulting into water stagnation from either sides.
Villagers have finally decided to file a law suit against these mining companies if their demands are not fulfilled before another tragedy strikes them.
A memorandum highlighting the acute difficulties faced by people of Advalpal due to mining activities was submitted to the Additional Collector (North Goa), Deputy Collector Bicholim, Bicholim Mamlatdar and Block Congress president Naresh Sawal as government has not taken any initiative to solve the problems of the villagers” stated Prabhakar Naik, a resident of Advalpal.
By A GT Correspondent
BICHOLIM: The villagers of Advalpal, Bicholim have decided to move to court against mining companies who have paid no heed to public grievances with regard to the mining silt despite repeated requests to curb mining menace.
Adressing a press conference on Sunday, the villagers said that, they are forced to take this extreme step as the government has failed to solve their problem.
It is understood that, villagers from Warche, Advalpal area are most affected as their residential area is a a low lying area at the foothill called 'Oraso Dongor' and 'Kalsanicho Matho' where the natural reservoirs of springs flows towards the Assnora irrigation project via Warchawada, Advalpal.
However, these natural springs and water reservoirs have been destroyed due to mining silt consequently which results into water scarcity during summer. “The mining excavation from this area which had been standstill for some years has started again due to which the springs have dried up due the silt” stated Gajanan Palkar, a resident of this area.
On June 6 when incessant rainfall lashed the state, villagers stated that mining slush from the mining pit on the mountain entered their houses as flow of one of the nullah's was diverted towards the opposite direction where the work of another industry was in progress consequently resulting into water stagnation from either sides.
Villagers have finally decided to file a law suit against these mining companies if their demands are not fulfilled before another tragedy strikes them.
A memorandum highlighting the acute difficulties faced by people of Advalpal due to mining activities was submitted to the Additional Collector (North Goa), Deputy Collector Bicholim, Bicholim Mamlatdar and Block Congress president Naresh Sawal as government has not taken any initiative to solve the problems of the villagers” stated Prabhakar Naik, a resident of Advalpal.
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