BJP relies on development to retain Goa

Panaji, Jan. 20: Setting the tone for the Goa poll campaign, the BJP is trying to project its social schemes and infrastructure development in the state during last five years, in a bid to woo the voters.

Senior leaders, including defence minister Manohar Parrikar, Goa chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar, the party’s Goa unit president Vinay Tendulkar and others have hit the poll campaign with the slogan “Once again BJP”, during the corner meetings being held in the run-up to the elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address a rally in North Goa on January 28. The BJP is also working out dates for party president Amit Shah’s public meeting.

The ruling party is contesting on 36 out of the total 40 Assembly seats, and has extended support to independents in four constituencies.

The BJP, which had a fallout with half-adecade-long partner Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) recently, refused tickets to three of its sitting — Vishnu Wagh, Ramesh Tawadkar and Anant Shet.

The party has hit the poll campaign while

banking on populist schemes such as Ladli Lakshmi, providing one-time financial assistance to girls; Grih Adhar, giving monthly remuneration to homemakers, and various infrastructure projects such as a third bridge across Mandovi river, second bridge over Zuari and four-six laning of National Highways passing through the state.

“Over 1.40 lakh people live with respect due to the Dayanand Social Security Scheme. They are getting monthly assistance of `2,000 and other medical benefits,” the BJP’s election brochure said.