Global Goans Convention, January 3-5, 2007, in Panjim, Goa

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The Global Goans Convention 2007 was held on January 3-5, 2007 at the Cidade de Goa in Panjim, Goa.  I attended the convention and I was pleased to see that the convention was well organized by Mr. Eduardo Faleiro, Hon. Commissioner for NRI (non-resident Indian) Affairs and his office, and was held in pleasant and comfortable surroundings.  The Commissioner’s aim in holding these conferences is to bridge the gap between Goa and NRGs (non resident Goans).

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In attendance on the various days were The Chief Minister, Mr. Pratapsingh Rane, NRI Commissioner, Mr. Eduardo Faleiro, Chief Secretary, Mr. JP Singh, Vice Admiral John C. de Silva, Chief Passport Officer, Mr. R. Dash and Secretary for NRI, Dr. Dilraj Kaur, and others who presided over the meetings.  The Governor General, Mr. S. C. Jamir attended on the final day of the convention and held a reception at the Raj Bhavan to conclude.

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Some of the issues that were raised/discussed over the three days included:

·         garbage disposal

·         water and electricity supply

·         NRG protection of ancentral property

·         negative treatment of NRGs at Indian High Commissions abroad

·         education recognition abroad and education in Goa

·         lack of infrastructure with respect to development of Goa

·         ownership of property by non-Goans

·         health care in Goa

·         “Regional Plan 2011” issue was raised but was disallowed by Mr. Eduardo Faleiro as a non NRG issue

·         Goan identity

·          investment by NRGs in Goa

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The convention concluded on the third day with a presentation of achievement awards to 8 global Goans and an address by The Governor Mr. S. C. Jamir.  In his address, Mr. Jamir suggested that development of Goa should take care not to damage Goa’s identity, that the Government consider the size of the state and related development for the next 25-30 years, and urged NRGs to bring in projects to fit Goan conditions.

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Full reports and updates on issues discussed are to be posted by the NRI CommissionerÂ’s office at www.globalgoans.org.in

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Glynis Viegas

Canadian attendees at the reception at the Raj Bhavan on the final day of the convention, from left to right, Fleming Viegas, Glynis Viegas General Secretary for GOA Toronto, Antonio Mascarenhas, Chief Minister, P. Rane, Governor General of Goa, S. C. Jamir and Eddy Rodrigues