Difficulties do exit for women, so do advantages

Victoria Fernandes, Minister for Tourism, Animal Husbandry and Women & Child Development, Government of Goa was delighted by the beauty of the Kathmandu valley and in the spiritual ambience of the place. She was here for the week-long Goan festival. Excerpts of the interview that The Independent took with her.

Q: What would you expect out of festivals like these?
A: It is an exchange of views, culture and cuisine. Festivals like this hold advantage for both the countries. Through these kinds of meets, we get to know what each other’s plus points are and thereby promote tourism in a bigger way. Nepal has the mountains and its natural beauty and Goa has the beaches. We get to know each other’s habits and way of life. We have held festivals like this in many other countries. Our experience has been that we end up becoming very friendly with the peoples of the various countries. Meeting with important people, each of the places we visited also was an added advantage.

Q:  What is your impression of this valley as a tourist?
A: It is a wonderful place but the problems regarding pollution and garbage are evident for all to see; a lot needs to be done in those areas.

Q: How do you manage pollution and garbage in Goa?
A: We are working around the clock to tackle those problems. One whole department works in this area. We have contractors and other local bodies in charge of keeping the environment clean; and have divided Goa into two zones to make the job more efficient and easier. A garbage plant takes care of a lot of problems, of course. Hotels are instructed to keep their areas clean and there are pick-up trucks and garbage bins arranged for garbage pick-ups. The beach, the coastal area is also controlled - shacks can not come up anywhere. We keep a look out for coastal water pollution also. Tankers are not allowed within a certain area. Rules and regulations keep a check on all types of pollution. There is not enough that one can do for cleanliness. It is an important aspect that any tourist would look for in a new place.

Q: With so many tourists (more than 12 Lakhs every year), flocking in Goa year after year, how have you preserved your culture and tradition intact?
A: Goa has seen many cultures and religions right from the ancient days. There were Muslims, the Portuguese, the Marathas and so on. Thus the Goans learned to be tolerant and to preserve their own identity. This trait has been instilled in them so much so that nothing can damage it. This very trait is admired by all who visit the place. Even today you can knock on any door and you will be welcomed with a smile; if you ask for directions, very often, you will be reached to your destination. This openness is a unique characteristic of the Goans as is the uniqueness of its food and culture that has been preserved throughout the ages. In addition we have certain regulations; for example we do not allow any construction outside certain boundaries in the coastal areas - this controls the physical environment.

Q: How much freedom do you allow your tourists; in terms of physical exposure, drug abuse and the like?
A:  We have police to look after this aspect. The tourist police keep a vigilant eye over whatever is happening around. I can not say that those problems do not exist. It is not easy to control everything that goes around but we try hard. I must say security in Goa is effective because tourists feel very safe there going anywhere at any time of the day or night. This is another very important aspect that a country has to look into if it is to promote tourism. Of course, we have our cathedrals, temples, churches, mosques, other historical places and the clean beaches that are the focal points of attraction.

Q: Coordination between various departments related to tourism seems to be a very difficult task. How do you manage that?
A: Decentralisation and non-interference is the key to effective management of each and every small locality. We have village Panchayats, municipalities and other local bodies that look after their responsibilities. All units work free of interference.

Q: Is Goa an equal society?
A: Yes, compared to other states, we are. Women are very advanced in Goa.

Q: Is drinking a common problem with Goans, what with Feni being freely available everywhere?
A: Goans know when to drink and how much to drink. Though there are exceptions, on the whole, they handle their drinks very well. To avoid drinking problem among the youth, we are mobilising various social programs involving them, to occupy them constructively. As you well know idle minds are devil’s workshop.

Q: Is paedophilia a problem in Goa?
A: There were a few isolated cases but it is very much under control now.

Q: How did you manage your long years of social service that eventually led you up to the present post in spite of having eight children?
A: I really do not know how I managed to rear my children. But they have all grown up fine and I guess, husbands have a role to play in their wives’ success. If they are cooperative, it becomes a lot easier for the wives with their career, as was in my case.

Q: Was it difficult for you to advance in your career, as a woman?
A: Difficulties do exist for a woman in any field, as most women would admit. I too had my share of difficulties that I took upon as challenges. Being a woman also is an advantage. It gives you easier access to people and people are more willing to listen to you. And needless to add, women are more intelligent, sincere, better managers, hard workers and less corrupt. And we manage to get things done.

Q: Would you like to add anything?
A: It has been a wonderful experience to spend time in this beautiful country. I look forward to developing a long relationship with tourism industry here. And I wish you all the very best.