In a decisive move to preserve Goa’s environment and cultural identity, South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes presented the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha. This legislation aims to establish a constitutional framework that empowers the central government to collaborate with the state to address various local concerns.
Key Objectives of the Goa Protection Bill
The bill emphasizes the need to safeguard Goa’s unique heritage, natural resources, and socio-cultural fabric amid rapid development. Fernandes expressed optimism about garnering cross-party support for the bill, having already secured backing from Union Minister for State Shripad Naik and others.
Environmental and Cultural Safeguards
The Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2025 outlines several critical actions:
- Protection of Natural Resources: It seeks to restrict land alienation in ecologically sensitive and cultural zones.
- Preservation of Cultural Identity: The bill promotes Goan languages, arts, and cultural traditions, including Tiatr and Fugdi.
- Historical Heritage Conservation: The legislation emphasizes the need to conserve the unique architectural and historical sites of Goa.
Socio-Cultural Stability
To maintain demographic equilibrium, the bill encourages policies that support the sociocultural balance of the region. It aims to uphold the rights of Goan communities, ensuring that people of Goan origin can retain educational rights, land use, and economic opportunities in perpetuity.
Formation of the Goa Sustainable Development Council
One of the key provisions is the establishment of the Goa Sustainable Development Council. This body will provide expert guidance and facilitate coordinated efforts to ensure a unified approach toward protecting Goa’s future.
Furthermore, the bill includes stringent measures for the protection of ecologically sensitive areas, such as:
- Eco-sensitive zones
- Marine areas
- Mangroves
- Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ)
Overall, the introduction of the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2025 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding Goa’s environment and cultural heritage. The successful passage of this bill would be a significant step toward sustainable development, ensuring that Goa’s legacy is preserved for future generations.
