Protecting Goa's Identity: Asmitai Dis Must Go Beyond Symbolism

We must appreciate the BJP government for declaring Goa’s Asmitai Dis an official event. For those unaware, Asmitai Dis (Identity Day) commemorates the historic 1967 Opinion Poll, when Goans decisively chose to remain a separate territory, safeguarding their unique cultural identity, language, and heritage instead of merging with Maharashtra.

However, an important question remains: is this symbolic recognition enough to make Asmitai a lived reality in Goa for future generations? Asmitai is not limited to history and culture alone—it also encompasses Goa’s environment: its hills, rivers, forests, and wildlife. Sadly, these are under serious threat from destructive real-estate lobbies, largely driven by interests from outside the state. The coal hub and corridor projects pose yet another grave danger.

The government’s true priorities were revealed when a Congress proposal seeking a time-bound plan to preserve Goa’s cultural and social fabric was rejected by a 21–7 vote during this month’s Assembly session. This rejection highlights a significant gap between the government's symbolic gestures and its actual commitment to preserving Goa’s unique identity.

Goa needs genuine, concrete action from its political leadership to protect its Asmitai—not mere symbolism or theatrics. The state’s cultural and environmental heritage is at risk, and it is crucial that all stakeholders come together to ensure that Goa’s identity is not eroded by external pressures and commercial interests.

Efforts to preserve Goa’s identity should include stringent regulations on real-estate development, protection of natural resources, and active promotion of Goan culture and language. Only through a comprehensive and sustained effort can Asmitai Dis truly become a meaningful celebration of Goa’s rich heritage and a catalyst for its preservation.