Panaji, July 9: Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Girish Chodankar has secured a positive assurance from the Tamil Nadu Government towards the establishment of a Goa Niwas at Velankanni, a long-pending demand of Goan devotees visiting the renowned pilgrimage centre.

During his recent meeting with Vijay Joseph, held in the presence of Rajesh Kumar, Chodankar discussed strengthening cooperation between alliance partners through a Common Minimum Programme and also raised issues concerning the people of Goa.

Chodankar urged the Tamil Nadu Government to allot suitable land for the construction of a dedicated Goa Niwas at Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health, stating that lakhs of Goan pilgrims visit the shrine every year and require affordable, safe and convenient accommodation.

Responding positively, Chief Minister Vijay Joseph agreed in principle to the proposal and directed Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar to initiate the process of identifying suitable land for the project. As an interim measure, he also assured that the Tamil Nadu Government would explore providing accommodation for Goan pilgrims through Tamil Nadu Tourism until the Goa Niwas is established.

Welcoming the assurance, Chodankar thanked the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for his prompt response and said the decision reflects the spirit of cooperation between Congress-led governments. He expressed confidence that sustained follow-up would help translate the long-cherished dream of a Goa Niwas at Velankanni into reality, benefiting generations of Goan devotees.

He further reiterated his commitment to pursuing the project until its completion, stating that the Congress believes in delivering tangible benefits to the people through constructive engagement and effective governance.