Republic day celebrations in Goa: Governor warns against onslaught of "social diseases"

PANAJI: Goa Governor Mridula Sinha today warned people against the onslaught of certain " social diseases" in the coastal state brought in by tourists and asked citizens to exercise caution against the possible excesses of their culture.

"The tourists who come here bring with them some kind of culture. We welcome all good things which they bring in. But there are some things which they bring and our youth get attracted to them," said the Governor addressing state level function on 66th Republic Day.

"I can say there are some social diseases which are happening which needs to be controlled. We should know what to accept and what not to accept from them," she said.

Governor's statement comes days after State Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar had blamed tourists for bringing in drugs in the state.

He had said some tourists come here only to do drugs. The Governor, who inspected the parade, made a faux pass when she said that India got independence in 1957.

Earlier in her speech, the Governor hailed Goa for its development but added that there are still several problems which needs to be tackled.

"Despite the achievements, we have problems like rise in crime, smuggling of narcotics, garbage, accidents, suicides are increasing, and atrocities against women are on rise," she said.

"For Goa, tourism is an important industry. People who come to Goa think that this is a place for enjoyment. But during my stay here I have realized that the people of Goa are equally conscious about their culture and have preserved it. When I tour across the country, I tell people that Goa is not just a place for enjoyment but it is a place to learn things from," Sinha added.

Spelling her dream for the state, Sinha said there should be one day when we should not use electricity to save it.

"We can do it on the day of Purnima," she suggested. The Governor also recommended that lessons on caring for old should be part of the curriculum, so that aged parents are saved from being admitted to old age homes.

The Republic Day was celebrated at Parade Ground, Campal Panaji.

The Governor unfurled the national flag, took salute and reviewed the parade.

The awards were bestowed to various personalities including Atmaram V Deshpande, IPS Supdt of Police (Training).

The flag hoisting ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar, Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly Rajendra Arlekar, Cabinet Ministers, Leader of Opposition Pratapsingh Rane and other dignitaries.

On her arrival at the venue the Governor was received by Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and Flag Officer Commanding Goa Area and Station.

The highlight of the celebration was Mass P-T display, mass dance and songs by children from different educational institutions.