http://oheraldo.in/node/10438
Private help needed Can Goa take up the challenge of Montek Singh Ahluwalia of having public-private participation in the development of Goa? Will it be possible if the private sector could show some initiative in some development works or should there be another alternative mechanism where private participation can be used to ensure that Goa's development is world class? If that is not possible then perhaps the government of Goa can draw up a blue print with the help of various business organizations such as the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Goa Small Industries Association to use their expertise and know how in helping developing Goa. It can be done and should be done and in fact both sides can swap ideas and know how which will go a long way in Goa's development. There are more than five areas where private participation can help in Goa's development – namely infrastructure, health, education, environment and waste management. Corporates like the Tata's, Wadias and Birla's have helped in Mumbai's development. Tata's have an entire department, the Tata Council for Community Initiatives (TCCI), the group's umbrella organisation for social development projects has helped finance various projects such as homes for the destitute, hospitals, educating child labourers and various other projects. These projects extend from the mere building and sponsoring of gardens and strips of green on the highways and in the cities. Goa has many large corporates who have been showing some form of community development. But now is the time the government should use these corporate talents and know how in taking Goa to that next stage of development. Goa needs expert help and advice and who better can give it that corporates who have built their factories and industries in the state. By involving private participation in Goa's development, the government will also be involving the people of Goa who work for these corporates. And once there is all round involvement there can be better development, which will be beneficial for all. -- TUMCHER AXIRVAD ASSUM; DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England
