Panaji : Mhadei is not just a river, it is the existence of Goa. School students made a fervent appeal that everyone should forget their differences and come together to fight for Mother Mhadei during the elocution competition held at Goemkar Ghor.
The elocution competition on Mhadei was organized by Goa Forward Party’s environment cell and received a good response. It brought forward the importance of Mhadei and what adverse effect it would have on Goa if this water is diverted to the state of Karnataka.
Ansha Ajit Naik of Nirakar Vidyalaya Mashe won the first prize, second prize went to Srija Alve of Rabindra Kelekar Gyan Mandir Margao and third prize went to Rajasv Naik of New Education Institute Curchorem.
Three consolation prizes went to Isha Mayekar (People’s Panaji) Trisha Kamat (Our Lady of Rosary, Fatorda) and Sharva Kudchadkar (Sarvodaya Kudchade).
The elocution competition was inaugurated by Goa Forward Party General Secretary Mohandas Lolyekar. Mhadei is Goa’s life and death issue, he said as he condemned the education department officials who prevented students from appearing in such competitions. The officials of the education department should not become agents of the govt and should pay attention to the future of the students.
Senior GFP Leader Prashant Naik demanded that the students should also come forward to carry on this movement. Vikas Bhagat, Convenor of Environment Cell, said that in order to create awareness among the students on these sensitive issues, they will also organize street play and painting competitions.
Speaking on this occasion, Professor Prajal Sakhardande appealed to the students to connect themselves with all the questions related to the existence of Goa. Senior Journalist Sushant Kunkalienkar was also present on this occasion.
Everyone strongly condemned the actions of of AEDI Bardez to subvert the Mhadei movement, and many termed him an enemy of Goa. He had earlier sent WhatsApp messages asking teachers not to attend any programs related to Mhadei.
In the beginning, Durgadas Kamat, General Secretary (Organisation) of Goa Forward welcomed the gathering. Vikas Bhagat gave vote of thanks and Anish Agni moderated the elocution competition.
