The Hindu : National : Goa to focus on e-governance

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Tuesday, Feb 14, 2006

National

National

Goa to focus on e-governance

Special Correspondent

PANAJI: Goa Governor S.C. Jamir, who addressed members of the Legislative Assembly on the first day of the five-day winter session that began here on Monday, announced the Government's plans to formulate a blueprint to introduce e-governance in the State by adopting the public-private partnership model, and provide broadband connectivity in all villages.

Earlier, the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a silent walkout from the House when the Governor rose to deliver the speech. Later, Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar said at a press conference that the party did not find it appropriate to listen to the Governor's address as he had "lowered the dignity of the Assembly last year when he dismissed the BJP-led coalition Government in the midst of a political crisis even without waiting for the report of the confidence motion from the Speaker."

Mr. Jamir, in his address, noted that the development profile of the State today represents a fine blend of economic growth, social progress, cultural advancement, environment protection and communal harmony.

He promised that the pace of development will be accelerated in tune with present-day imperatives.

While talking of the need to bring about development, the Governor cautioned that it is important to conserve the State's fragile ecology, specially the Western Ghats region, as well as its beautiful coastline stretching over 100 km.

Touching on the achievements of the Government, Mr. Jamir said the mid-term appraisal of the Tenth Five-Year Plan cites the low neo-natal mortality rate in Goa, which has helped in stabilising the growth of the population in the State.

Elaborating the plans of the Government to promote tourism, the Governor said eco-tourism will be popularised in a big way.

"Goa is blessed with climatic conditions that favour the tourism industry. The Government has taken up agricultural farms for upgrading them into model farms to promote eco-tourism," he said.

Terminal

Along with upgrading minor ports and improvement in river navigation, the Government has also proposed to construct a cruise terminal at Aguada Bay in North Goa with private participation.

Reassuring members that education continues to be a thrust area, he said the Government has decided to facilitate creation of "centres of excellence" by way of public-private partnership.

Under plans for fiscal management of the State's finances, the Government has planned pension reforms and fiscal responsibility and budget management legislation, which is being finalised.

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