September 22, 2016“There are funds from the Central government are meant to ameliorate urban living conditions in Goa but there needs to be systems in place in the community where these funds can be utilized,” said Shri Francis D’Souza, Deputy Chief Minister of Goa. He was speaking at the state level self-help group conclave that was held in Panaji on Thursday.
In his address, he listed out the various schemes of the government, aimed at reducing the financial burden on Goans. He said, “The municipalities need to co-operate with the government so that schemes are successfully implemented.”
Goa State Urban Livelihoods Mission’s Director, Shri Elvis Gomes, who was present on the occasion said, “The task of municipalities is more than just the cleaning of gutters. It has the responsibility of poverty alleviation in urban areas.” He further spoke of the mission’s aim of poverty alleviation and urban development.
Several women from the women’s self help group were felicitated. A few also shared their successful and inspiring stories. Shri Sumeet Singh, co-coordinator of Smart Colony, Smart Ward initiative, spoke of the Jodhpur model of city development that they were following. A booklet Day-Nulm was released on the occasion. Also present were the Commissioner of the Corporation of Panaji, Shri Dipak Dessai and the chairpersons of various municipalities.
The program was organised by the Goa State Urban Livelihoods Mission under the Goa State Urban Development Agency and supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation.
Earlier, Project Consultant, Celsa Antao welcomed the gathering while the Chief Project Officer, Jagdish Hosamani, proposed the vote of thanks.
