Ashok Gajapathi Raju Sworn In as Goa's New Governor
Former Union Minister takes oath, pledges to serve Goa with unity and constitutional integrity.
Ashok Gajapathi Raju, a seasoned politician and former Union minister, was sworn in as the governor of Goa on Saturday, succeeding P S Sreedharan Pillai. The oath-taking ceremony took place at Raj Bhavan, administered by Chief Justice of Bombay High Court Alok Aradhe, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and other dignitaries in attendance.
Raju, 74, expressed his commitment to upholding the Constitution of India while serving the people of Goa. "I am delighted to be associated with Goans and will work as part of a team," he said, acknowledging his unfamiliarity with the local language but emphasizing his extensive political experience.
A veteran leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from Andhra Pradesh, Raju highlighted his seven-term tenure as a legislator in undivided Andhra Pradesh and his brief stint in Parliament. "I’ve served as a minister and sat in the opposition, giving me a broad perspective," he noted.
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As civil aviation minister from 2014 to 2018 and a former minister in the Andhra Pradesh government, Raju brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Addressing the media, he emphasized collaboration, stating, "I look forward to working with the people of Goa, not just for them. Democracy thrives when people and government work together." He urged collective effort to propel India forward, asserting, "India will be second to none in the world."
Raju’s predecessor, P S Sreedharan Pillai, concluded his four-year term as governor and was given a farewell on Thursday. Raju’s appointment marks a new chapter for Goa, with his focus on unity and inclusive governance.
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