Panaji: Vice President of India C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday said Goa has the potential to emerge as a national model for sustainable coastal development and urged the state to take a lead in harnessing opportunities in the blue economy while preserving its ecological balance.
Addressing the Goa Statehood Day celebration in Panaji, Radhakrishnan said the future belongs to economies that can grow without compromising the environment, and noted that Goa is well placed to lead the country in the emerging blue economy sector.
Goa Governor P Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Chief minister Dr Pramod Sawant were amongst the dignitaries present on the occasion.
“The future belongs to economies that can grow while preserving ecological balance, and Goa can emerge as a national model for sustainable coastal development,” he said.
Referring to Goa’s marine resources and fishing sector, the Vice President said the blue economy would play a transformative role in the years ahead and expressed happiness that the state was already moving in that direction.
Radhakrishnan stressed that development must be balanced and inclusive, asserting that growth cannot be considered meaningful unless it benefits every section of society.
“No development can be called development unless it is inclusive development for every section of society,” he said.
The Vice President said preserving Goa’s ecology, coastline, rivers, forests and heritage was not merely the responsibility of the state but a “national imperative”. He noted that Goa is admired globally not only for its scenic beauty but also for the harmony between its people and nature.
He said safeguarding this balance was essential for future generations and described Goa as an example of how identity and progress can coexist.
“The story of Goa reminds us that identity and progress can go hand in hand. One can embrace modernity without losing cultural roots and welcome the world while preserving local traditions,” he said.
Calling Goa an inspiring model for a rapidly changing world, Radhakrishnan urged the state’s youth to build on its legacy through innovation, entrepreneurship, science, arts, sports and public service.
He said emerging sectors such as the blue economy offered significant opportunities and encouraged young people to use their creativity, openness and confidence to shape the state’s future.
“The future of Goa will be shaped by the youngsters’ imagination and leadership,” he said.
On the occasion of the state’s Statehood Day, the Vice President called for a renewed commitment to unity, prosperity, sustainability and social harmony, and urged citizens to work towards building a Goa that remains culturally vibrant, economically strong and socially compassionate.
He said Goa should continue to shine as a beacon of peace, hospitality, innovation and excellence while contributing to the national vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
