Migration monitoring study soon in Goa: NRI Commissionerate

Panaji, Feb 23 (UNI) Goa Commissionerate of NRI Affairs Edurdo Faleiro has proposed to initiate a study to monitor migration trends in this international tourist destination.

Mr Faleiro disclosed about the proposal while addressing the valedictory function of a six-day Foreign Orientation Course organised by the Overseas Employment Agency (OEA) of Goa in association with the state Directorate of Craftsmen Training at IYI, Margao, today.

The study covers ''replacement migration'' in Goa, where migrants from other states, particularly for construction, industry and service sector constitute a large chunk of population.

These migrants replace Goan workers, who migrate to Gulf and other countries in search of employment. They also bridge the population deficit caused by the fertility decline in Goa, coupled with rapid and extensive development and infrastructural works in the state.

In this connection, Mr Faleiro said that the Indian work force is in great demand in many countries, with around six lakh workers, including a significant number of Goans seeking employment abroad every year.

He indicated that the Centre is likely to make it compulsory for all the work force seeking jobs abroad to undergo training in skill development so that they withstand competition in other countries and get better wages. At present, the training is optional.

Former Vice-Admiral John D'Silva, Chairman of the OEA and others explained the role of the agency and the importance of skill development training to work in a competitive atmosphere.

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