Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently chaired a crucial meeting with officials ahead of the Exposition of the Relics of St. Francis Xavier, which is scheduled to begin on November 21, 2024. This meeting focused on finalizing the necessary arrangements for the event, which is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims to Old Goa over its 45-day span. The event, held every 10 years, is of great religious and cultural significance.

In preparation, the government is implementing various infrastructure improvements, including the enhancement of road access, additional public amenities like toilets and drinking water booths, and the installation of security measures such as CCTV cameras. The exposition will also see the establishment of pilgrim centers and arrangements to accommodate a large influx of visitors. To ensure accessibility, electric buggies will be available for the elderly and differently-abled.

The government is also extending invitations to national and international dignitaries, including Pope Francis, to attend the event. Efforts are underway to ensure that the exposition serves as a global benchmark for such events, with an estimated expenditure of around ₹300 crore, part of which is being sought from the central government.