Goa: The outcry of the unemployed Goan youth refuses to die, with several young adults taking to social media to vent out their anger and frustration. The closure of mining has led to the loss of livelihood of more than 3 lakh people in Goa. The youth is desperate for job security and uncertain about their future as they were hoping to get jobs in the mining sector. The major source of employment in Goa has driven the people of the coastal state into a deep financial crisis. With no job opportunities, the people of Goa are witnessing an unprecedented crisis, and their standard of living is on a constant decline.
Transportation of the ore was also one of the crucial activities. Approximately 12,000 truck owners went into deep debt when mining was shut.
With the state elections 2022 around the corner, various political parties that are staking claim to form government in Goa are posturing to resume mining in the state. The INC has made the resumption of mining a part of their manifesto while the AAP has not only promised resumption of mining within 6 months of coming to power but also a compensation of Rs.5000 per month to all the families affected by the ban, till the time they get their jobs back. BJP is steadfast on its decision to restart mining via auctions through Goa Mineral Development Foundation.
Hopefully, the “SOS” message is loud enough to overcome the deafening silence on the issue.
