Panaji: The Akhil Gomantak Kshatriya Maratha Samaj (AGKMS) has urged chief minister Pramod Sawant to establish a separate commission for the welfare of economically weaker sections in the general category, similar to the independent commissions for reserved categories and backward classes in the state.AGKMS president Suhas Fal Dessai said the organisation will soon meet the chief minister and submit a memorandum outlining its demands.“Economically disadvantaged youth, students, and families from the general category are facing increasing hardships. Govt should provide them with fee concessions and educational assistance on a par with those extended to students from reserved categories. Unemployed youth aspiring to establish businesses or industries should be provided with low-interest loans and govt subsidies,” Fal Dessai said.
CJP Jantar Mantar Protest Updates
He said many deserving individuals have been left behind due to inadequate govt assistance and are unable to participate fully in the state’s social and economic progress. “Being born into the general category should not deprive citizens of opportunities and welfare benefits,” he said.The organisation also sought financial assistance for economically weaker general category families to construct houses.“There are many in the general category who are deprived of proper shelter. A dedicated commission is essential to address their concerns and bring them into the mainstream. Many talented students from the general category, including those from the Maratha community, face financial barriers in pursuing higher and professional education despite their academic merit,” Fal Dessai said.AGKMS further demanded that general category students be made eligible for pre-matric and post-matric scholarships similar to those available to students from reserved categories.The organisation said the Kshatriya Maratha community has a long history of sacrifice and played a significant role in Goa’s freedom struggle against Portuguese rule, but continues to remain neglected despite its contributions.
