With Ganesh Chaturthi around the corner, Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai raised strong concerns in the Assembly over the alarming rise in coconut prices across the state. Speaking during the Zero Hour on Wednesday, Sardesai urged the state government to take immediate action to regulate the soaring costs. “Coconuts are not a luxury item, they’re a cultural and religious necessity,” Sardesai stated, emphasising the burden being placed on Goan families preparing for the festival. He warned that prices had touched ₹100 per coconut in some areas, making it unaffordable for many, especially during a time when coconuts are in high demand for pujas and rituals.
The Fatorda MLA called for direct government intervention through price control measures, market monitoring, and timely procurement to ensure that traditional Goan households are not forced to compromise on age-old customs due to price exploitation. Sardesai also accused the government of negligence in regulating essential commodities and demanded that concrete steps be taken before the festive season begins in full swing.
