Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA – Sanction orders granting Rs 2 lakh each to 85 traditional Shigmostav mell/troupes from Sanguem, Quepem and Canacona were distributed on Tuesday under the Department of Art & Culture’s ambitious ‘Mand Sanskriti Yojana’.
Distributing the sanction letters, Minister for Art & Culture Ramesh Tawadkar said that the government will introduce various schemes to preserve traditional festivals, rituals and fairs across the State. He informed that a dedicated scheme has also been prepared to support the Dhillo festival and announced three prizes for the best reels made on traditional Shigmo troupes. The awards will be presented during this year’s government-organised Shigmostav celebrations.
Tawadkar said that a cultured individual, society and village give the true identity to a State, and this identity must be maintained through traditional art, folklore and festivals. Referring to Goa’s image, he said that while some associate the State with feni, beaches, casinos and drug culture, only a small percentage of people are involved in such activities. “Efforts are being made to remove this unnecessary stigma on the majority of Goans,” he said.
Under the Mand Sanskriti Yojana, each Shigmo mell receives financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh to purchase musical instruments such as dhol, tanse and ghumat, along with traditional costumes and attire required for Shimgo fairs. The assistance is aimed at preserving Shigmostav in its authentic traditional form. Troupes seeking the grant must have an account in a nationalised bank.
Tawadkar also announced financial assistance for sports events to three active clubs in Canacona.
Among those present on the occasion were BJP South Goa President Prabhakar Gaonkar, CMC Chairperson Laxman Pagi, ZP (Poinguinim) Ajay Lolayekar, BJP Canacona Mandal President Prabhakar Gaonkar, Dy Collector Pratap Naik Gaonkar, Sarpanch (Agonda) Nilesh Pagi, Sarpanch (Khotigao) Jayesh Gaonkar, Sarpanch (Poinguinim) Savita Tawadkar, Sarpanch (Shristhal) Sejal Gaonkar and CMC Councillor Ramakant Naik Gaonkar.
