Historic Homes in Goa Secure Future: 'Majhe Ghar' Scheme Brings Legal Ownership

John Filipe Da Costa, a longtime resident of Shiroda village in South Goa, has finally secured legal ownership of his 150-year-old ancestral home. At 70, Da Costa sheds the long-held fear of losing his cherished residence. The change comes through Goa's new 'Majhe Ghar' scheme, aimed at regularizing homes on government or community land.

On October 4, Union Minister Amit Shah awarded Da Costa a regularisation certificate, the first of its kind under the scheme. Presented in the presence of Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the certificate marks a historic moment for Da Costa and his wife Melinda. Planning and Statistics Director Vijay Saxena explained that homes built before 1972 will be granted legal recognition within 14 days of application.

The 'Majhe Ghar' scheme extends to homes established on government or community land before February 28, 2014, offering similar rights. The initiative also expedites construction approvals, granting permissions promptly if decisions aren't made within the mandated period. Additionally, families sharing a home can gain separate house numbers, further securing their futures.

(With inputs from agencies.)