Rane says Goa on track of achieving zero revenue deficit
Panaji, Mar 8 (UNI) Goa Chief Minister Pratapsinh Rane today criticised the Opposition's allegation that the state was falling into a debt trap and told the Legislative Assembly that the government was committed to achieving zero revenue deficit within the next few years.
''Taking loans for the development is within the norms,'' he said.
Replying to a debate on the four-month vote-on-account Budget (Goa Appropriation Bill), the Chief Minister said the state has witnessed a bouyant revenue position which would be maintained.
He said the International Civil Aviation Organisation has been asked to study the feasibility of having two airports in Goa -- the existing Dabolim Airport and the proposed one at Mopa.
Participating in the debate earlier, BJP leader Manohar Parrikar alleged that the Budget lacked direction. He also accused the Congress government of failing to check corruption and lapses in the health and revenue administration.
Mr Parrikar alleged that the Goa Police has failed to check crimes, including smuggling of narcotics, while citing the recent seizure of 15 kg heroin by the Mumbai Police here.
He said property worth Rs 5,000 crore has been sold in Goa ever since the registration fee was reduced by the incumbent government.
Deputy Speaker Victoria Fernandes, while speaking on the occasion, was of the opinion that rural micro-credit should be launched in the state and a minimum support price for agricultural produce should be assured.
Law Minister Dayanand Narvekar, taking strong exception to Mr Parrikar's remarks against the Congress and its Ministers, said the former Chief Minister was resorting to ''character assassination'' which should be condemned by the House.
He said the four-month vote-on-account presented by the government was a people-friendly one and, so, Mr Parrikar had resorted to such behaviour as he could not bear this fact.
UNI