Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Union Minister of State Ramdas Athawale has said that political reservation for the Scheduled Tribe community in Goa should be determined according to its population share, while assuring that efforts would be made at the Centre to address the long-pending demand.
Reacting to the issue of ST political reservation in Goa, Athawale stated that the matter is still awaiting clearance at the central level, although discussions on the subject have already taken place within the Goa cabinet. He maintained that adequate representation for the ST community was necessary and said steps would be taken from Delhi to ensure justice for tribal communities in the state.
The Union Minister also highlighted the rise in inter-caste marriages in Goa while speaking about social welfare initiatives. According to him, 70 such marriages have been registered in the state over the last three years. He said 10 marriages were recorded in 2024, followed by 37 in 2025 and 23 in 2026.
Athawale further stated that couples entering inter-caste marriages are provided financial assistance of ₹2.50 lakh under government schemes aimed at encouraging social integration.
Commenting on Goa’s political scenario, Athawale expressed confidence that the BJP-led alliance could win nearly 30 seats in the state in the upcoming elections. He attributed this optimism to developmental work carried out by the government over the past five years and the continued popularity and support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He added that the verdict of the people would be respected irrespective of the election outcome.
