Goa, May 15 -- The Goa Police are set to add four new Mahindra Scorpio vehicles-two each for North and South Goa-to their patrolling fleet in mining-affected areas. Priced at over Rs.1.10 crore, the vehicles will be funded by the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), a fund meant for the welfare of communities impacted by mining operations.

The move has sparked debate, as DMF guidelines prioritise spending on health, education, irrigation, and women's empowerment-without any mention of police infrastructure. Despite this, the DMF Governing Council approved the purchase with the condition that the vehicles bear DMF branding and are used strictly in mining zones.

The decision has drawn criticism from the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association...