Every individual is rooted to his culture unconsciously and not by any special efforts.The immigrants in a foreign land unable to manifest their cultural urge in new surroundings form associations in order to keep alive their customs, traditions and way of life , which they miss very much alienated from their roots Hence they transpose their culture to a different place without any force or compulsions,Many of our minority community members have established prestigious clubs, associations abroad. These organisations not only satisfy their immediate needs of a common bond , but support many noble, charitable programs back home. It shows that they are always rooted to their cultural moorings It is true that having lost touch due to long absence ,their ability to converse is at a distinct disadvantage The proposition that learning English at primary level leads to de-culturerisation is a myth propagated by vested interest English medium at primary level is not going to alienate our children. 20 years back when the medium of instruction was English was it a cause for decline in our so called culture ? The large number of students enrolled in private English medium schools are a threat to our culture ? and if so what steps are taken to avoid this dangerous down slide ? What ever be the culture, we want to preserve, can it be not brought into learning through English Medium. All those countries using English have lost their distinctive culture ?To day the individuals preserving culture in any forms are not the products of regional language medium. There are many individuals with English educational background and without any formal education in regional languages, who are the real crusaders keeping Konkani alive through their writings. The tiatrist are an best example. Every body is aware that oppression of 450 years of Portuguese rule did not annihilate the language, but still we want to believe that 50 years of liberation alone will preserve our culture. One may want to ask, as to what is the distinctive aspect of Goan culture that all are agreed upon ? Are casinos. drugs, night life, rave parties, street carnival, our dress preferences, celebration of our functions and festivals are a part of our new found culture, that we are all proud of ? What aspect will qualify to be original Goan ? Language , which is necessary for survival or birth records ? The present generation is subjected to cultural invasion due to communication and easily assimilate what they like, abandoning a few customs and traditions and thus a mixed pattern of anew culture will take roots The politicians want to divide the people on narrow religious considerations for their very survival Discarded politicians want to project at this stage as the Saviours and to cash on popular movements The likes of Adv. Bembre, Dr Wilfred were not vocal and expressive in writing, earlier People ,who wanted to destroy the very identity of GOA by merging it into Maharashtra and cunningly inserting Marathi as the mother tongue are now rooting to preserve identity. All our leaders , who are the products of English Education have lost their culture and identity ? No matter where we are situated due to circumstances there is yearning to reflect our own identity Let the people be not denied their right and right to choose in a democracy. The grants are contributed through taxes by all Goans and nobody appreciates grants to Kanada, urdu medium schools .when there is no reciprocal arrangement Goans have spread the flavour of our living, our culture, a mixture of east and west to every corner of the world, that has made the place a tourist attraction Nelson lopes Chinchinim 9850926276
