Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA) has called upon the State government to operationalise spatial planning at the level of panchayats and municipalities, in accordance with the 73rd and 74th Amendments of the Constitution, and to ensure people’s participation in the preparation of Development Plans.
In a communication addressed to the Chief Secretary, GBA sought the initiation of a structured process to involve local self-government institutions in planning activities.
GBA convenor Sabina Martins said the demand gains significance following the amendment to the Goa Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, which was approved by the Goa Legislative Assembly in October 2025 to incorporate provisions on spatial planning.
Martins stated that the government is duty-bound to ensure that Development Plans are prepared as mandated under Article 243ZD of the Constitution, as outlined in the Panchayati Raj Act and the rules notified on February 12, 2008. She explained that Article 243ZD(3) requires district planning committees, while preparing draft Development Plans, to take into account matters of common interest between panchayats and municipalities.
These include spatial planning, sharing of water and other natural and physical resources, integrated development of infrastructure and conservation of the environment. According to Martins, adherence to these provisions is crucial for balanced and sustainable development.
She added that GBA has sought an appointment with the Chief Secretary, as head of the State administration, to understand the steps initiated by various departments following the 2025 amendment to the Panchayati Raj Act and the process being put in place to implement the new provisions.
