Why Goa Named Its New District After The Ancient Kushavati River

Goa has decided to name its proposed third district Kushavati, drawing from the deep historical, cultural and ecological roots of the state.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the decision on Wednesday, saying the name reflects Goa’s “ancient geographical heritage and identity”.

At present, the BJP-ruled coastal state has only two districts — North Goa and South Goa. The new district will be formed from four talukas of South Goa: Dharbandora, Quepem, Sanguem and Canacona. Once created, Kushavati will become Goa’s third district.

Explaining the choice of name, Sawant said the district is named after the Kushavati river, which flows through all four talukas. “Kushavati is Goa’s ancient river… aa river that represents the state’s ancient geographical

heritage and identity,” the Chief Minister said. He added that the river links the entire region and symbolises the area’s history, livelihood and ecology.

Referring to Goa’s past, Sawant said, “There was a time during the reign of the Chalukyas when Goa was a highly modern place and a state with a lot of cultural heritage.” He also highlighted the importance of the Usgalimal rock engravings, which are located along the banks of the Kushavati river and continue to attract visitors from across the world.

The headquarters of the new district will be located in Quepem (also referred to locally as Capie). Sawant assured that proper bus services will be introduced from areas such as Canacona and Dharbandora so that people do not face inconvenience.

Until full infrastructure is developed, all administrative work will continue to be handled from South Goa district. The South Goa collector will manage responsibilities until a full-time collector is appointed for Kushavati.

Sawant also said the new district will be developed as an aspirational district. “Aspirational districts in the country get additional funds of Rs 15 crore from the Centre,” he said, adding that special funds will be requested, especially as the district has a 27 per cent tribal population.

BJP Goa also welcomed the decision, calling it a step towards cultural revival. In a post on X, the party said, “Goa’s third district is named Kushavati, a name deeply rooted in Goa’s indigenous heritage and culture. A meaningful step towards restoring Bharatiya identity and preserving our civilisational legacy.”