Goa's identity different from rest of India: Minister

Goa has a distinct culture and identity which is different from the rest of India and people visiting the state should respect its unique features, Deputy Chief Minister Vijai Sardesai said Monday.

He said the state, a former Portuguese colony, is known for its cosmopolitan, secular and liberal outlook.

Sardesai was addressing a sports event organised by the Nepali Society of Goa at Fatorda in South Goa.

"As much as Goemkars (Goans) respect the exemplary courage of the Gorkha Regiment and the loyalty of the Nepali community, we expect them to respect our unique identity, culture and traditions whilst staying in Goa," he said.

"Respecting Goemkarpoon (Goanness) would take the Nepali community forward in Goa," the minister said.

The event organisers informed Sardesai that there are 50,000 Nepalese in the coastal state, which attracts thousands of tourists every year.

"Goa is different from the rest of the country. Our history is also different. Goa is a cosmopolitan, tolerant secular and liberal state known for hospitable nature," he said.

"When people come to Goa, we except a reciprocal approach wherein people also understand our culture and live in harmony with this culture," Sardesai said.

Sardesai, who heads a regional outfit, the Goa Forward Party (GFP), said the residents here want the state to remain as it is.

"Our government in Goa is also very liberal, but at the same time we are very much conscious that Goa should remain Goa.

Goa cannot be yet another simple part of India," he said.

Sardesai said Goa's distinct identity's must be preserved.

"We have to maintain and preserve our distinct identity, with that comes our architecture, with that comes our culture, tradition and everything.

"I do hope that you all will become Goemkars in course of time and respect the laws of the land, respect the culture and traditions of Goa," he added.