On May 12, 2025, Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, met with Goa’s Chief Minister, Shri Pramod Sawant, and Minister for Urban Development, Shri Vishwajit Rane, in Panaji. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of key urban development initiatives and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Goa.
Key Urban Development Schemes
Transformative Initiatives
The discussion covered major schemes under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, including the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT & AMRUT 2.0), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U & PMAY-U 2.0), Smart Cities Mission (SCM), and Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U & SBM-U 2.0). Other initiatives like the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) and PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) were also reviewed, emphasizing sustainable urban growth and improved civic amenities.
Special Assistance for Goa
24x7 Water Supply Project
Goa’s Chief Minister requested special financial assistance of ₹326.30 crore for the Drink from Tap (DfT) project under AMRUT 2.0, with a total project cost of ₹652.61 crore. This initiative aims to ensure 24x7 water supply through infrastructure development, smart metering, and IoT-based monitoring systems. The Union Minister agreed to consider this request, signaling strong support for Goa’s water management goals.
Addressing Tourism Challenges
Given Goa’s status as a major tourist destination, the state faces unique urban challenges due to high tourist inflows. The Chief Minister sought enhanced support under AMRUT 2.0 and SBM-U 2.0 to strengthen civic infrastructure. The Union Minister instructed officials to explore policy changes for tourist-heavy states, fostering tailored solutions for Goa’s needs.
Cooperative Federalism in Action
Centre-State Collaboration
The meeting highlighted the spirit of cooperative federalism, with the Centre and Goa working closely to expedite priority projects. The Union Minister emphasized the importance of strategic planning and public-private partnerships to promote sustainable urbanization, ensuring long-term development for the state.
Actionable Directives
Shri Manohar Lal directed Goa to complete pending works under AMRUT, such as water and sewer connections, and expedite tendering for community toilets, public toilets, and solid waste management facilities under SBM-U. He also urged the state to promote PMAY-U 2.0 for affordable housing, profile street vendors under PM SVANidhi, and submit proposals for the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme to enhance public transport.
Goa’s Path to Sustainable Urbanization
As a prominent tourist hub, Goa is making significant strides in urban development. The Union Minister provided guidelines for effective implementation of urban schemes, focusing on improving infrastructure and enhancing ease of living. By leveraging initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and DAY-NULM, Goa aims to create a sustainable and inclusive urban ecosystem, setting a model for other states to follow.