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Goa, unexplored destination for suicides. By Frederick Noronha. India Abroad News Service. PANAJI - 1 April 2003. Even as the controversy rages regarding the incidence of suicides in this tiny Indian State, the politicians, bureaucrats and population at large wish to capitalise on Goa's natural resources in offering a new tourist service - holiday cum suicide packages. Tourism Secretary, Mr N. Suryanarayana has always held that Goa ought to lead rather that follow the trend. It is his contention that package holiday tourists can come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Wedding packages are now commonplace as are ayurvedic, eco-tours and even bird-watching. He perceived the idea of suicide packages filling a niche in the market. Goa has abundant natural resources to offer. The beaches do not have lifeguards; motorcyclists ride helmetless with impunity; rabid stray dogs patrol the streets and killer mosquitoes serenade the inhabitants. Besides, there has been a steady trickle of young desi couples and foreign tourists visiting Goa quite literally for the "holiday of a lifetime" with the intention of committing suicide whilst here. The Goa Tourism Department is encouraging hotels and operators to offer complete packages which can include a grand last supper, funeral with professional mourners, brass band and wake. The actual deed of execution can be contracted to entrepreneurs like the Santa Cruz School for Goons who offer cheap rates as their students need training. Suryanarayana believes that Goa could become the suicide capital not just of India but of the world. He is also quick to realise that such tourists will fall into the much desired high-spending category and will "not give a thought for tomorrow." ENDS _______________________________________________ Goanet mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.goanet.org/mailman/listinfo/goanet
