Konkani in the Roman Script must be incorporated into Goa's Official Language Act. The 20 year old Act in the current form is doing more damage to Konkani, than Good. There is a significant percentage of Goans, who relate more to Roman than Devanagari. While the Devanagari script is important for the Indian perspective, the Roman script has a wider international appeal; hence both scripts will boost Konkani (basis for Goan Identity) and also give Goa have a Strong Global Appeal. The Roman Script can also help connect many in the Goan Diaspora, to their roots and possibly encourage some of them to return home. Goa's Identity is a blend between the East & West; which enforces the argument for having Konkani in both the scripts; in the Official Language Act.
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Friday, 26 September 2008
Sunday, 14 September 2008
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Goa’s Magical Identity
Rome & Paris are my most favourite, of the places that I have visited. They get most of the world’s tourists and the key attraction is their unique magical identity; developed over a long time; good times & bad. They preserve the same, whilst accommodating Globalisation.
Goa attracts many tourists not only because of its beaches/beauty; as there are even more beautiful states. History shaped our identity i.e. the main attraction. We can maximise our Strength, as the French/Italians? Some think that the latter is too ambitious; I actually think it is possible. Economically, do we lose the Goose that lays the Golden Egg?
At a Cultural event during the 2007 Global Goans Convention (Goa), I saw a distinct underlying common thread amongst us; despite our religious & other differences. Our Identity is more relevant with East & West, coming closer. We have the best of both worlds; adjust to both sides and as such, Goa faces enormous opportunities in the emerging Global Order.
As individuals: (A) Many unsuccessfully look out for happiness & not within. (B) Many are blind to their strengths. (C) Many pessimistically restrict their true potential by “perceived” obstacles (D) Many don’t act for a cause due to weaknesses but oppose others in guilt. All these relate to Goans in general: (A) Many think emigration is the only answer: Is the “give up & run away” attitude also right for us, personally? (B) Many can’t see our identity (C) Many see no hope due to legalities, constitution etc but can’t see that obstacles can be overcome. (D) Many attack Goa Activists in guilt; as they can’t act due to personal weaknesses or to safeguard narrow minded selfish interest’s e.g. emigrant status in their adopted countries, monetary interests in Goa’s real estate etc.
There’s success on SEZ’s, Regional plan, mega projects etc; let’s maximize with more for the effort? Will a big campaign overseas or election boycott in Democratic India not help? Lets have CAN DO’s!! Lets make Goa as we want it; instead of abandoning our home & enjoying on the efforts of others. Countries came out of nothing because of its people. Many complain but do nothing for the better; even if it is just speaking up for Goa.
Identity forms the Value Systems of individuals/communities. Do we prefer being “something to everybody” or “nothing to nobody”?
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Goa attracts many tourists not only because of its beaches/beauty; as there are even more beautiful states. History shaped our identity i.e. the main attraction. We can maximise our Strength, as the French/Italians? Some think that the latter is too ambitious; I actually think it is possible. Economically, do we lose the Goose that lays the Golden Egg?
At a Cultural event during the 2007 Global Goans Convention (Goa), I saw a distinct underlying common thread amongst us; despite our religious & other differences. Our Identity is more relevant with East & West, coming closer. We have the best of both worlds; adjust to both sides and as such, Goa faces enormous opportunities in the emerging Global Order.
As individuals: (A) Many unsuccessfully look out for happiness & not within. (B) Many are blind to their strengths. (C) Many pessimistically restrict their true potential by “perceived” obstacles (D) Many don’t act for a cause due to weaknesses but oppose others in guilt. All these relate to Goans in general: (A) Many think emigration is the only answer: Is the “give up & run away” attitude also right for us, personally? (B) Many can’t see our identity (C) Many see no hope due to legalities, constitution etc but can’t see that obstacles can be overcome. (D) Many attack Goa Activists in guilt; as they can’t act due to personal weaknesses or to safeguard narrow minded selfish interest’s e.g. emigrant status in their adopted countries, monetary interests in Goa’s real estate etc.
There’s success on SEZ’s, Regional plan, mega projects etc; let’s maximize with more for the effort? Will a big campaign overseas or election boycott in Democratic India not help? Lets have CAN DO’s!! Lets make Goa as we want it; instead of abandoning our home & enjoying on the efforts of others. Countries came out of nothing because of its people. Many complain but do nothing for the better; even if it is just speaking up for Goa.
Identity forms the Value Systems of individuals/communities. Do we prefer being “something to everybody” or “nothing to nobody”?
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Thursday, 31 July 2008
Solution for Goa
We Let Politicians, Land Sharks/Builders to silence us, via various tactics. Specific Politicians for instance, oblige many people with rewards & favours (mostly “illegal”); these people then sell their souls & give a blank cheque to these politicians, to reap disgustingly huge profits, through the Destruction of Goa & its identity. It is high time; these people realize the reality and stop their indirect contribution, to the death of Goa!!
Then we have Land Sharks/Builders bribing Politicians & Police to intimidate protestors. I heard of a specific shocking case in North Goa; some powerful people from Delhi colluded with local politicians & police, to stop few protesters via Police charges & imprisonment!! The protesters unsuccessfully tried to stop the private purchase of a huge beach area & blocking of public access to the same. Are we allowing Goa, to be very soon, off limits to Goans and a private haven to India’s Rich & Famous? Is the Benaulim incident of police charges on 2 youth, the similar tactic of intimidation employed?
We are getting stronger by the day; in our movement to Save Goa & its Identity. I commend and thank Goans fighting hard & selflessly for the latter, against all odds. By neutralizing the defeating tactics employed by vested interests, we can achieve what we truly want for Goa & its future generations. WE CAN DO IT; WE ARE THE SOLUTION.
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Then we have Land Sharks/Builders bribing Politicians & Police to intimidate protestors. I heard of a specific shocking case in North Goa; some powerful people from Delhi colluded with local politicians & police, to stop few protesters via Police charges & imprisonment!! The protesters unsuccessfully tried to stop the private purchase of a huge beach area & blocking of public access to the same. Are we allowing Goa, to be very soon, off limits to Goans and a private haven to India’s Rich & Famous? Is the Benaulim incident of police charges on 2 youth, the similar tactic of intimidation employed?
We are getting stronger by the day; in our movement to Save Goa & its Identity. I commend and thank Goans fighting hard & selflessly for the latter, against all odds. By neutralizing the defeating tactics employed by vested interests, we can achieve what we truly want for Goa & its future generations. WE CAN DO IT; WE ARE THE SOLUTION.
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Saturday, 12 July 2008
Indian Constitution on Goa’s Identity.
As an Indian Citizen, I am seriously concerned on the threat to my Goan Identity (unique selling point), right to decent living in Goa & wide impact of Goa’s Destruction e.g. Tourism dependent economy. Some quote DIVINE Legal restrictions of what can’t be done!! Goa’s case is genuine (unlike other states) and this must be logically resolved; URGENTLY!!
Legal limitations must change for the people of the land. But first let’s explore the Constitution’s Article 19 (5) with provisions to sub-clauses (d) to move freely through out the territory of India & (e) to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India. (Google search: “Article 19; Indian Constitution”) Did India’s Visionaries put in safe-guards to protect genuine cases?
The key obstacle to Goa getting Special Status (as obtained by few other states) are Corrupt Politicians, Greedy Investors etc in Goa/Delhi/India/World with big monetary/land stakes in Goa’s decimation; they oppose on the Constitution pretext. Will Goans allow this; isn’t it obvious of what we have to do?
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Legal limitations must change for the people of the land. But first let’s explore the Constitution’s Article 19 (5) with provisions to sub-clauses (d) to move freely through out the territory of India & (e) to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India. (Google search: “Article 19; Indian Constitution”) Did India’s Visionaries put in safe-guards to protect genuine cases?
The key obstacle to Goa getting Special Status (as obtained by few other states) are Corrupt Politicians, Greedy Investors etc in Goa/Delhi/India/World with big monetary/land stakes in Goa’s decimation; they oppose on the Constitution pretext. Will Goans allow this; isn’t it obvious of what we have to do?
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
Saturday, 5 July 2008
Landlords Excuse
This is with reference to the recent press coverage of Landlords defending their SALE of Goa to the highest bidder(non-goans in particular). My criticism does not apply to the Truly Goan Landlords who have resolved that they will not Sell Goa (particularly to Non-Goans); no matter what the price.
The excuse of being a capitalist society does not hold ground, as Capitalism does not take precedence on the over all interests of the region/society? These Landlords are blind to the fact that there is a civilized Global understanding on the latter. And is it not a fact that outsiders with a lot of illegitimate wealth are investing in Goa’s Properties. So is this a weakness that Goans generally do not have this illegitimate wealth?
Every business deal has a social responsibility. If the Landlords actions affect the society, then these actions have to be stopped. If they have a right to sell the land, so also do the people in the society have the right of priority to live in decent environment, with stable infrastructure, reduced contamination levels, sense of identity, livelihood, safety, etc Today Goa besides facing a threat to its Identity (i.e. Unique Selling Point); also has many significant problems resulting out of land sales to Non-Goans, Mega projects, un-necessary constructions etc. If the Society has to suffer significantly, then the so called rights of these Capitalistic Anti-Goan Landlords do not hold any weight. The arguments for protection of land if valid should be addressed to ensure that the Landlords rights are protected, but these arguments should not serve as an excuse to SELL GOA. Also the landlords need to smarten up on the steps for preserving their land from Tenants, Mundkars & Encroachers.
Arwin Mesquita, UAE
The excuse of being a capitalist society does not hold ground, as Capitalism does not take precedence on the over all interests of the region/society? These Landlords are blind to the fact that there is a civilized Global understanding on the latter. And is it not a fact that outsiders with a lot of illegitimate wealth are investing in Goa’s Properties. So is this a weakness that Goans generally do not have this illegitimate wealth?
Every business deal has a social responsibility. If the Landlords actions affect the society, then these actions have to be stopped. If they have a right to sell the land, so also do the people in the society have the right of priority to live in decent environment, with stable infrastructure, reduced contamination levels, sense of identity, livelihood, safety, etc Today Goa besides facing a threat to its Identity (i.e. Unique Selling Point); also has many significant problems resulting out of land sales to Non-Goans, Mega projects, un-necessary constructions etc. If the Society has to suffer significantly, then the so called rights of these Capitalistic Anti-Goan Landlords do not hold any weight. The arguments for protection of land if valid should be addressed to ensure that the Landlords rights are protected, but these arguments should not serve as an excuse to SELL GOA. Also the landlords need to smarten up on the steps for preserving their land from Tenants, Mundkars & Encroachers.
Arwin Mesquita, UAE
Wednesday, 2 July 2008
Goa’s Identity Movement (UAE GOANS)
Dear UAE Goans,
This is for those intending to save Goa’s Unique Identity. We don’t have to lose our rich essence (developed over a long time) or abandon our home GOA; to be part of the Global Community. In fact, by keeping our Identity & our Home, we can contribute in a much better/meaningful manner to India & the World. Our Identity is our key untapped strength; preserving it will indirectly instill self-confidence, direction, energy, values & self-pride within us; which will not only maximise each ones personal ventures but also on the whole, make our community, a powerful & well respected asset to the Indian/Global Community.
Movements in Goa have started on the same. All Goans including NRI’s need to power the cause. Goa is deteriorating today only because we are letting it happen. Let’s not regret tomorrow that we did not act today. This is not about being against other people; it is only about preserving who we are and what Goa is; in a civilized manner. This right applies to all Identities, across India & the World Over.
With our expertise, resources & even minimum time, we can work together as one force and make it happen. I believe that we can do it. I believe that we can find solutions, to most of the obstacles/anomalies. Please see my thoughts below on how I think we should act. Kindly feed back your views, suggestions, ideas etc post which, we can act. Please spread this message. I request that we meet urgently, we can no longer afford be passive to the cause; our future is at stake.
Dev Borem Korum. Arwin Mesquita, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Dated: 29th June 2008.
Key Objectives:
1)Pursue main aspects pertaining to Preserving Goa’s Unique Identity:
Þ Mega-Projects, Land Sales to Outsiders, Special Status for Goa, Migrant Controls, Maximise Konkani & Promotion of Goan Traditions/Culture.
2) Protection of Goa’s Ecology & Environment.
3) Employment & Economic Opportunities in Goa for Resident & Non- Resident Goans.
4) World Class Medical & Education policies/benefits for Goans, in Goa.
5) Constructive/Relevant Development of Goa and its economy in line with Goan Interests. (Make it Goa by Choice for Goans)
Clear Foundations:
1) No political affiliations/obligations and will work solely on issue basis; only for the cause of Saving Goa’s Identity.
2) Need to guard against vested interests derailing a “just” movement e.g. False Xenophobic Allegations, intimidation by quoting the constitution on a false basis.
3) A non-profit volunteer movement, which would provide sponsors with clear accounts/receipts on agreed campaigns.
4) A non-violent civilized movement that will work with any group/person irrespective, but only for the said objectives.
5) Will welcome new ideas, suggestions & possible revisions; only if it’s within the interests of saving Goa’s Identity.
Action Plan:
1) Like Minded Goans to meet up at least once a month on the said objectives & rest of co-ordination to be done electronically/via internet.
2) Brain Storm for possibilities of what NRI’s can do to contribute to the cause. Agree at least some/minimum action & plan to action accordingly
3) Maximise awareness, first amongst UAE Goans on at least the fundamentals & need of preserving Goa’s Identity (unique selling point).
4) Work towards establishing/co-coordinating with a network of Global Goans, to work together with Resident Goans.
5) Work/Co-ordinate with or support respective NGO’s or movements; on issue basis only.
PS. I have also prepared a more detailed action plan which I would like to share at the potential brain storming session; amongst like minded Goans.
This is for those intending to save Goa’s Unique Identity. We don’t have to lose our rich essence (developed over a long time) or abandon our home GOA; to be part of the Global Community. In fact, by keeping our Identity & our Home, we can contribute in a much better/meaningful manner to India & the World. Our Identity is our key untapped strength; preserving it will indirectly instill self-confidence, direction, energy, values & self-pride within us; which will not only maximise each ones personal ventures but also on the whole, make our community, a powerful & well respected asset to the Indian/Global Community.
Movements in Goa have started on the same. All Goans including NRI’s need to power the cause. Goa is deteriorating today only because we are letting it happen. Let’s not regret tomorrow that we did not act today. This is not about being against other people; it is only about preserving who we are and what Goa is; in a civilized manner. This right applies to all Identities, across India & the World Over.
With our expertise, resources & even minimum time, we can work together as one force and make it happen. I believe that we can do it. I believe that we can find solutions, to most of the obstacles/anomalies. Please see my thoughts below on how I think we should act. Kindly feed back your views, suggestions, ideas etc post which, we can act. Please spread this message. I request that we meet urgently, we can no longer afford be passive to the cause; our future is at stake.
Dev Borem Korum. Arwin Mesquita, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Dated: 29th June 2008.
Key Objectives:
1)Pursue main aspects pertaining to Preserving Goa’s Unique Identity:
Þ Mega-Projects, Land Sales to Outsiders, Special Status for Goa, Migrant Controls, Maximise Konkani & Promotion of Goan Traditions/Culture.
2) Protection of Goa’s Ecology & Environment.
3) Employment & Economic Opportunities in Goa for Resident & Non- Resident Goans.
4) World Class Medical & Education policies/benefits for Goans, in Goa.
5) Constructive/Relevant Development of Goa and its economy in line with Goan Interests. (Make it Goa by Choice for Goans)
Clear Foundations:
1) No political affiliations/obligations and will work solely on issue basis; only for the cause of Saving Goa’s Identity.
2) Need to guard against vested interests derailing a “just” movement e.g. False Xenophobic Allegations, intimidation by quoting the constitution on a false basis.
3) A non-profit volunteer movement, which would provide sponsors with clear accounts/receipts on agreed campaigns.
4) A non-violent civilized movement that will work with any group/person irrespective, but only for the said objectives.
5) Will welcome new ideas, suggestions & possible revisions; only if it’s within the interests of saving Goa’s Identity.
Action Plan:
1) Like Minded Goans to meet up at least once a month on the said objectives & rest of co-ordination to be done electronically/via internet.
2) Brain Storm for possibilities of what NRI’s can do to contribute to the cause. Agree at least some/minimum action & plan to action accordingly
3) Maximise awareness, first amongst UAE Goans on at least the fundamentals & need of preserving Goa’s Identity (unique selling point).
4) Work towards establishing/co-coordinating with a network of Global Goans, to work together with Resident Goans.
5) Work/Co-ordinate with or support respective NGO’s or movements; on issue basis only.
PS. I have also prepared a more detailed action plan which I would like to share at the potential brain storming session; amongst like minded Goans.
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