Goa election 2017: BJP will work to increase 'happiness index', says Manohar Parrikar

Panaji: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday said if BJP is voted to power in Goa for another term, it would work to increase “happiness index” of the coastal state. “We (BJP) performed well in the social sector and also built the infrastructure in the state. But there is one thing still left to be achieved. I had a dream of infrastructure development, social development but the ultimate target is to increase the happiness index of the state,” he said. [caption id=“attachment_3126150” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. PTI[/caption] The former Goa Chief Minister was addressing BJP’s “Vijay Sankalp” rally at Bicholim. BJP is holding these rallies to shore up support ahead of the Assembly elections in the state due next year. “Money (alone) does not give you satisfaction. Happiness index is now being discussed worldwide. I had mentioned it in my (state) budget presented in 2001. Until people are satisfied and contented, we cannot claim we have done enough for the state,” he said. “To do this (increase happiness index), I require your support. Last time (during 2012 polls) 21 BJP legislators were elected and this time we want at least 25-26 BJP legislators,” Parrikar said. Despite a ban on mining industry (imposed by the Supreme Court, later revoked), nobody committed suicide in Goa because the BJP government extended support to the affected people, he said, talking about the post-2012 elections period.