Goa: In conversation with Anil Pednekar, Sarpanch of Succour Panchayat

Q. What are the works carried out by you in your Panchayat ?
– We have made sure that all the basic facilities are provided without any delay. Internal roads, drainage, pavers, even changing of street lights is made on priority basis.

Q. Will you be standing for elections again? How was the support u gained from your fellow panch and people at large?
– Yes I will be contesting the forthcoming Panchayat elecrtions. The fellow panch members have been very co-operative and I have gained good support from the people as well, the people know that we have provided good service to them, therefore I am confident that the people will support me.

Q. Do you feel Panchayats have enough powers in hand?
– A Panchayat can carry out only certain minor works from the Panchayat fund, but if any major project has to be carried out then we have to send a proposal to the BDO (block development officer) who will further our request to the Directorate of Panchayats. If any file remains pending then we receive good support from our Porvorim MLA and Minister Rohan Khaunte as well.

Q. Do you think elections at local self-government should be fought on party lines?
– Elections at local self-government should not be fought on party lines as there is a great possibility of conflict arising between panch members which will affect us in the long run.

Q. Do you think there is lack of woman leadership in politics?
– I would not think so as we have active participation of women atleast in our ward.

Q. Any word of advise to youngsters who want to enter politics?
– My advise to the youngsters will be, if they want to enter politics and do something for the people then in order to do it they should first spend time with the people in their area, understand what problems they are facing and find the solutions to their problems by taking the issue to the higher authorities.