Goa Cong to release manifesto tomorrow

Panaji, Feb 19 (IBNS) Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is likely to visit Goa Monday to release Congress' election manifesto for the March 3 polls in the state.

The manifesto will have a string of promises, key promises of which includes protecting agricultural land, creating quality audit and control authority and lone Goa University to be fully financed by the government.

"Agricultural land will be sold to agriculturists only. Besides, land conversions because of which real estate values have escalated will be solved," party leaders said.

The manifesto was decided by a committee formed under the leadership of former union minister Eduardo Faleiro.

On the education front, the party has assured that students would be given computers under the cyber age scheme, and that schools will be converted into 'smart schools'.

The manifesto covers several other impressive promises for luring votes.

Congress, which forged an alliance with the Nationalist Congress Party, is contesting on 33 seats while the latter is given seven seats.

Meanwhile, it is reportedly learnt that UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will visit the state on Feb 24 to support party candidates for the election.

Party sources said she will address a public rally at Sports Authority of Goa ground in Panjim and at Fatorda in South Goa.

Union Minister and Congress leaders will hit the campaign trail from tomorrow to garner votes for the party candidates. Former Indian cricket skipper turned MP Mohd Azharuddin will address a series of public rallies.

(Reporting by John Edwards)