Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji/New Delhi
Panaji, Jul 15: Veteran politician and former Union Minister Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju has been appointed as the new Governor of Goa, succeeding P S Sreedharan Pillai, who held the post since July 2021. The announcement was made by the President of India, with the appointment set to take effect from the day Raju assumes office.
A senior leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and a key political figure from Andhra Pradesh, Raju is best known for his tenure as the Union Minister for Civil Aviation in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first cabinet (2014–2018). His leadership during that period was marked by the launch of the UDAN regional air connectivity scheme, development of regional airports such as Rajamahendravaram and Kadapa, and the introduction of India’s first-ever no-fly list for disruptive passengers.
Raju also served in multiple portfolios in the Andhra Pradesh state government, including finance, planning, and revenue. He gained national attention for resigning from the Union Cabinet in 2018 amid a row over Andhra Pradesh’s demand for special category status.
Reacting to the announcement, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant welcomed the new Governor in a post on X (formerly Twitter):
“On behalf of the people of Goa, I warmly welcome Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, as the Governor of our beautiful State. A seasoned statesman with vast administrative and parliamentary experience, his guidance will be invaluable as we continue our journey towards Viksit Goa 2037.”
Sawant added that the state government looks forward to working closely with Raju to further the welfare and development of every Goan.
Outgoing Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai leaves behind a legacy of welfare-driven initiatives during his term. These included financial assistance to cancer patients, support to old age homes and welfare societies, and the launch of the Khushal Kalyan Yatra, a state-wide outreach programme during which he visited religious and social institutions across Goa.
Raju’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Goa, as the state pushes forward with its development goals under the "Viksit Goa 2037" vision. His extensive governance experience is expected to provide strong institutional support in the years ahead.