The Goa government has decided to appoint Justice PK Mishra, former Chief Justice of Patna High Court who had recently retired as chairman of Goa State Human Rights commission, as Lokayukta of the State. Justice (Retd) Sudarshan Reddy, Goa’s first Lokayukta, had resigned within seven months of his appointment on October 17, 2013 and since then the post was vacant for more than two years.

Mishra had retired as chief justice of Patna High Court before taking up his assignment in Goa. In October 2013, the first Goa Lokayukta, Justice (retd) B Sudarshan Reddy, had quit from his post citing personal reasons. He had assumed charge in March 2013. His resignation left investigations of 21 cases, including the crucial illegal mining scam and the recruitments in government department, pending before the ombudsman in the State.

Did You Know?

• In the year 1542, the Portuguese ruled Goa. It was during this time that St. Francis Xavier began his work of spreading the gospel. He was instrumental in helping many people turn to his faith.
• Apart from having a tourist economic backbone, this state contributes to the Indian GDP with exports as well. Exports of iron and manganese ore started in the early part of the 19th century. Currently, bauxite, magnesia, limestone and clay are additions to the list of mineral ore exports.
• Goa’s Naval Aviation Museum is one of a kind and Asia’s first and only one. There are only about six other such museums in the world. The museum displays India’s naval aviation history.
• This is the only place in India where you can ask a biker a lift and actually pay him without worrying about riding with a stranger! Goa is full of motorcycle taxis and riders take you pillion to your desired destination for a charge.