Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Oct 4: Union home minister Amit Shah has called upon the citizens of India to celebrate this Diwali with a “Swadeshi spirit” by embracing Indian-made products and rejecting foreign goods. He emphasized that the collective resolve of 140 crore Indians can elevate the nation to unparalleled heights.
Speaking at a public meeting near Panaji, following the launch of the ‘Mhaje Ghar Yojana’ and the foundation-laying of various development projects in Goa, Shah highlighted the significance of the Swadeshi movement in today’s context. “Diwali is not just a festival of lights—it should also reflect our commitment to our nation and our economy,” he said.
The event was also attended by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister and North Goa MP Shripad Naik, and Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade.
‘Mhaje Ghar Yojana’: A Milestone in Citizen Empowerment
Unveiling the ‘Mhaje Ghar Yojana’, Amit Shah stated that the initiative is far more than a routine government scheme—it’s a symbol of responsive and citizen-centric governance. The scheme aims to resolve long-pending legal issues surrounding home ownership in Goa.
"This plan gives legal recognition and ownership to Goans whose homes were previously entangled in nearly 11 types of legal complications," he explained. "From now on, thousands of Goans will proudly say: This is my house, and it's legally mine. It marks a major step towards social and legal empowerment, benefiting nearly half the state’s population.”
On Goa’s Rapid Progress
Praising Goa’s fast-paced development, Shah said, “Prime Minister Modi has envisioned a fully developed India by 2047, but at the rate Goa is progressing, I believe it could become a fully developed state by 2035–2037.”
He also lauded the Swayampurna Goa initiative, calling it a model for grassroots governance. He urged CM Pramod Sawant to sustain and expand the programme, adding, “Swayampurna Goa must continue to solve citizen issues proactively. With this, Goa can lead the nation in becoming the first fully developed state.”
Boosting Middle-Class Relief
Highlighting recent reforms, Shah noted, “PM Modi has abolished income tax for individuals earning up to Rs 12 lac annually. This is a huge relief for the middle class and a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusive development.”
A Political Swipe at the Opposition
Taking a jibe at the Congress, Shah said, “When BJP started winning in Goa, Congress dismissed it as a small state. But no state is small when it comes to the spirit and contribution of its citizens. Every Indian, no matter where they live, is equally valuable.”
Through this event, Amit Shah not only reiterated the BJP government’s development-driven agenda but also framed it within the larger vision of a self-reliant, fully empowered India—starting with Goa leading the way.