Mhadei is not just a river, it is the essence of Goa’s existence. As such, school students made a fervent appeal that everyone should forget their differences and come together to fight for Mother Mhadei during the elocution competition held at Goemkar Ghor.
The elocution competition on Mhadei was organised by Goa Forward Party's environment cell and received a good response. It brought forward the importance of Mhadei and the adverse effect it would have on Goa if this water is diverted to the state of Karnataka.
Ansha Ajit Naik of Nirakar Vidyalaya, Mashem, won the first prize, the second prize went to Srija Alve of Ravindra Kelekar Gyan Mandir, Margao, and the third prize went to Rajaswa Naik of New Education Institute, Curchorem.
The elocution competition was inaugurated by Goa Forward Party’s general secretary Mohandas Lolyekar.
“Mhadei is Goa's life and death issue,” he said, as he condemned the Directorate of Education officials who attempted to prevent students from participating in Mhadei-related competitions.
The officials of the Directorate of Education should not become agents of the government and should pay attention to the future of the students" Lolyekar added.
Senior GFP leader Prashant Naik demanded that students come forward to carry forth this movement. Vikas Bhagat, the convenor of the Environment Cell, said that to create awareness among the students on these sensitive issues, they will also organise street play and painting competitions.
Speaking on this occasion, Prof Prajal Sakhardande appealed to the students to connect themselves with all the questions related to the existence of Goa. Senior journalist Sushant Kunkalienkar was also present on this occasion.
Everyone strongly condemned the actions of the ADEI Bardez to subvert the Mhadei movement, and many called him an enemy of Goa. He had earlier sent WhatsApp messages asking teachers not to attend any programmes related to Mhadei.