Goa to Establish Third District with Quepem as Headquarters

Announcement of New District Formation

On Tuesday, Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced plans to create a third district in the state, with an official notification expected to be released soon. The new district will encompass four talukas currently part of South Goa, with Quepem designated as the district headquarters.

Current District Structure and Opposition Concerns

Presently, Goa is divided into just two districts: North Goa and South Goa. Opposition leader Yuri Alemao expressed concerns that the state government aims to issue the notification for the new district on Wednesday (December 31), questioning the urgency behind this decision. He also called for clarity regarding the financial implications of this move.

Cabinet Meeting and Discussions

Sawant chaired a meeting with legislators at the Porvorim ministry on Tuesday to discuss the formation of the third district. Members from opposition parties were also present. Following the meeting, opposition representatives told reporters that they lacked clarity on the new district's implementation, while the Chief Minister asserted that the matter had been thoroughly discussed in the state cabinet and during the assembly session.

Significance of Smaller Districts

The Chief Minister stated, 'We have decided to form the third district in the state.' He highlighted that after the establishment of the NITI Aayog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of smaller districts to ensure effective governance reaches every household.

Sawant confirmed that the new district will include the talukas of Dharbandora, Sanguem, Quepem, and Canacona, all of which are currently part of South Goa. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Cruz Silva remarked that while the third district could benefit the public, a clearer understanding would emerge only after reviewing the reports.