In my last Blog, I had suggested that henceforth we should STOP categorizing the "legitimate citizens" of Goa as Goans and non Goans. It is time we realize that in a global economy people keep moving from one place to another as per demand and supply for labour. Just as many of our so called "original Goans" have moved out of Goa and settled in other places, people of other ancestral backgrounds have moved into Goa to fill in the vacancies.
Fortunately, most of the people living in today's Goa, continue to live in harmony. It is very much in line with the traditional feature of "Goan Identity"..."peaceful coexistence and tolerance towards the cultures of other communities". However, we cannot afford to take the survival of this "peaceful coexistence" for granted. We have got to work at it. It is the duty of every citizen of Goa to ensure that, "peaceful coexistence" remains undisturbed for the generations to come.
The boom in tourism, higher land prices and endless greed for money, has already begun to put an adverse pressure on Goa's traditional "peaceful coexistence". A dangerous category of people whom many call as "anti-Goans" has already emerged in Goa. These ruthless thugs who have already done a considerable damage to Goa, are now plundering Goa. Probably, they are attempting to finish Goa's unique identity with their irresponsible behavior. We cannot allow such people to win.
Sadly, most of the "Anti Goans" are our own disgraceful people... the so called blue blooded Goans of ancestral origin. And being our own people, it is a great challenge to deal with them effectively. Self-respecting Goans are therefore left with no choice but to become "Proactive citizens" immediately. We have to become a part of the solution, rather than a part of the problem. As Goeth had rightly said-"Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do".
Like most other place on earth, Goa is also blessed with many "Lukewarm citizens"- people who love Goa, but are almost indifferent to the happenings in their motherland. I guess, a vast majority of we Goans (more than 60%) fall in this category. Besides "discussing" the problems facing Goa in local Bars and at social gatherings, these Goans hardly do anything concrete to solve the problems confronting our community. On the contrary, many of them act like crabs...constantly 'pulling down' others who are at least 'doing something" for the upliftment of their community.
In my opinion, about 30% of Goans would fall in the category of "Concerned Goans"- people who are seriously concerned about Goa, its land and community. These Goans take active part in the various local movements. Gram Sabhas and agitations to safeguard the interests of their community . Many of these people write letters to the editors of local news papers, act in local dramas and compose songs on various issues concerning Goa. Many of our "Concerned Goans" working/settled abroad participate in International Goan Conventions and seminars to discuss the issues facing Goan community.
Fortunately, there is a small number of Goans (less than 1%) whom I would like to refer as "Proactive Goans" that also exists in our community. Most of these "Proactive Goans"(like our freedom fighters and credit worthy social activists) are doing a great job for Goa... with their selfless service to our community . Surprisingly many of the so called "non-Goans" settled in Goa are doing a fabulous job for our land. What Goa really needs today is more of such people. My hats-off to you guys... I'll be the last person to refer you as an "outsider".
The "Proactive citizens" of Goa seem to be resolved and determined to see a 'safer and better Goa'. I am convinced, that, if only 10% of the local residents of Goa and 10% of Goans (settled in different parts of the world) could graduate from being a "Concerned Goan" into a "Proactive Goan" (by devoting at least 10% of their time and resources to work for their motherland "selflessly"), Goa can be restored to its true glory. I believe a "safer and better Goa" is a dream of everybody!
I firmly believe, that the above mentioned 10% committed and Proactive citizens can surely give a tough fight to the "Anti Goan" forces in Goa. It is a war that can be won, and a war that must be won for Goa... not only for the safety of our children and elderly parents; but also for the sake of our beautiful land. Goa certainly deserves a better deal. I am so convinced about this fact, that I have decided to graduate from being a "Concerned Goan" into a "Proactive Goan"... a Goan who will actively work to make Goa a "safer and better place" in the days to come.
And if you are not too sure of what a few committed, "Proactive citizens" can do for their land and community, please read what Margaret Mead had to say ... "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Goa is too small a place. I believe a few of us can surely make a big difference!
Cheers to Goa and long live "Goan Identity of peaceful coexistence".
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