Minutes after staking claim with the governor to form the government in Goa, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominee for Chief Minister, Manohar Parrikar spoke to Khaleej Times on the tasks ahead and his vision for Goa and Non-Resident Goans (NRGs)
How are you going to reach out to Non-Resident Goans and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)?
We already have an NRI cell which caters to the needs of the NRIs and NRGs. But I agree that this cell needs to be more active. There are a number of issues affecting NRGs and we will tackle these issues through this cell. In addition, we will try to get statutory powers for the cell and ensure that this aspect is taken care of.
What are the issues affecting NRGs?
NRIs and NRGs are mostly affected with sudden job losses. When they return, they have nothing to do. And the second issue is property manipulation. Properties in Goa are being manipulated and sold fraudulently to third parties. People living abroad are unable to come and take care of these aspects. We have certain policies in mind that can be implemented, but I have to discuss them first.
You have assured seamen of pension. Will this be extended to NRIs?
No, pension cannot be extended to NRIs or NRGs. It is meant only for seamen as this pension will help them get proper financial support in times of crisis.
How can the NRG community contribute towards better administration in Goa?
We would like them to give us feedback on a regular basis, which will help us improve and maintain the existing systems. I have plans to hold meetings with representatives on their yearly visits to the state. I would also be available for communication through social media network.
Have you chalked out any plans to attract foreign investments into the state?
Foreign investment per se does not necessarily have to be healthy. We will welcome investments that will generate employment for the local people. The segments of investments we are interested in are in the education sector, entertainment industry and tourism. We have yet to clearly formulate policies before we actually implement them.
How do you plan to stop the brain drain from Goa? Have you chalked out any plans?
We plan to provide better opportunities for students in the state. Plans are there but the implementation will take some time. IT is an area, which is witnessing a huge brain drain. If we can ensure that IT activities improve, we can stop the brain drain from happening.
So will you set up specialised educational institutes in the state?
Yes, we intend to start an educational hub, where top-notch universities will come to Goa and set up their campus. This will help generate employment and create a situation where Goans need not travel overseas to gain quality education.
Will you choose to implement your projects through the Private Public Partnership (PPP) mode?
As for now, PPP in Goa has got a very bad name. Let me work out a right methodology for it. However, we can have PPP. But instead of private parties managing everything, government organisations can manage the allotment of land and other things.
What are your plans for the industrial growth in the state?
We are looking to welcome industries that will generate local employment. NRIs who are interested in investing can put forth their proposals through the NRI cell and this will be taken on priority basis.
How are you going to tackle corruption and scams affecting Goa?
We plan to implement the Lokayukta in the state. The Lokayukta and other anti-corruption cells will take care of the corruption issues.
Have you set any time frame to implement your plans and your vision?
I have given myself a time frame of three to six months to fulfil my plans and vision.
You received tremendous support from Goans in the Middle East?
I thank each and every Goan for their support and well wishes. I hope to make Goa an ideal state. Right now I am concentrating on getting the administration back in order. I have a daunting task ahead of me, as the administration is in a virtual collapse.
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