A strange, if populist, situation is looming on for Russians in Goa State in India. The newly elected governor has threatened to deport those Russians who form illegal enclaves and do business in disrespect to the locals. By disrespect is meant using Russian language in menus and advertisements.

      Russians are not the only people under fire of the Goa government: Israeli businesses also flock to this Indian state and likewise offer their services in Yiddish. Reportedly, the local businessmen voiced their unhappiness with the apparent successes of "alien" entreprises, and the new governor was only too eager to please his electorate.

      The Russian diplomatic and tourist services acknowledge that the problem of downshifting does exist. Many Russian tourists have been going to Goa since the 2008 crisis first struck. They would rent their Moscow flat and go do business in Goa. The most expensive item in such case would be the plane ticket; the rest was freely available in India. When the 6-months visa expired, they'd just stay in India and continue their trade. And since Goa has long become a favourite destination among Russians, those downshifted entreprises quickly put the natives out of business. 

      Still, the governor's threat is seen as no more than a response to the pressing calls from locals. Russian tourists have greatly contributed to the economic sustainability of the region, and it is unlikely that the state would risk losing the financial dividends.