Goa budget factors in temples destroyed by Portuguese, allocates Rs 20 crore

“The construction of Smruti Mandir in memory of restoration of temples destroyed during the Portuguese era will commence this year. Rs 20 crore has been allocated for it,” he said.

Goa budget, Panaji, Goa budget 2024, Pramod Sawant, Indian express news, current affairs

Sawant said resumption of sand mining through a proper policy and extending the duration of the lease period for minor minerals in the state is a priority for the government.

Resumption of sand mining, a single-window system for issuing permission for beach weddings and events, construction of a ‘Smruti Mandir’ in memory of temples destroyed during the Portuguese era and creating infrastructure for industry, IT, tourism were among the major announcements in the state Budget for 2024-25, presented by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday.

Sawant said the total budget size is Rs 26,855 crore, of which revenue expenditure is 20,000 crore and capital expenditure is Rs 6,855 crore. “The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is expected to grow at 13.87 per cent in the financial year 2024-25. No additional tax has been levied,” he added. Sawant said resumption of sand mining through a proper policy and extending the duration of the lease period for minor minerals in the state is a priority for the government.

“The construction of Smruti Mandir in memory of restoration of temples destroyed during the Portuguese era will commence this year. Rs 20 crore has been allocated for it,” he said.

Other major announcements include a single window system for issuing a no-objection certificate (NOC) for amplified sound, beach weddings and events and a one-time amnesty scheme for residential houses that are being operated illegally as home stays, hotels and restaurants.

Yuri Alemao, Leader of Opposition, said the Budget is an attempt to create a “feel good factor” ahead of the LS elections.

Pavneet Singh Chadha

Pavneet Singh Chadha is the Goa Correspondent of The Indian Express. His reporting focuses intensely on the state of Goa, covering major developments in politics, governance, and significant local events, which establishes his high degree of Expertise and Authority in the region. Expertise Geographic Expertise: As the Goa correspondent, Pavneet provides on-the-ground, comprehensive coverage of Goa's political, social, and cultural landscape, ensuring readers receive timely and localized insights. Key Coverage Focus: His recent work demonstrates deep investigative capabilities and a focus on high-impact stories, including: Investigative Reporting: Extensive coverage of complex events such as major incidents (e.g., the Goa nightclub fire), tracing the legal, political, and safety lapses involved. Government and Law Enforcement: Detailed tracking of police actions, deportations, and legal proceedings related to significant local cases. Policy and Governance: Reporting on the judiciary (e.g., Goa High Court flagging illegal structures) and the actions of government departments. He tweets @pub_neat ... Read More

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