Goa seeks Rs 1,310 cr in Central grant

Goa has sought Rs 1,310 crore from the Planning Commission as special grant for development of roads, hosting the National Games, celebrate 50 years of liberation and beach safety.

Chief Minister Digamber Kamat met Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia in Delhi yesterday and put forward the demand, a government spokesman said here today.

The CM submitted a detailed memorandum to Ahluwalia covering issues like development of road infrastructure, preparations for 2011 National Games to be held in the state, and the government's plan to celebrate the golden jubilee of Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule and financial assistance from the Centre.

The memorandum highlighted the financial impediments encountered by the state in executing developmental works and tried to convince the Plan panel on the need for the Centre's support to carry out the developmental initiatives, he said.

The state's grant demand related to Rs 615 crore for maintenance and development of roads, Rs 535 crore for National Games, Rs 100 crore for commemorating 50 years of liberation, Rs 50 crore for beach safety and tourist-related activities and Rs 10 crore for state-run Kala Academy.

Kamat informed the Deputy Chairman about the safety measures the state was taking for the tourists visiting the state, the spokesman added.