Panaji: V. M. Salgaocar College of Law (VMSCL), Miramar, inaugurated the 4th Edition of the Justice G.D. Kamat Memorial National Level Moot Court Competition on February 26, 2026, at its conference hall. Organised in collaboration with the Justice G.D. Kamat Memorial Trust, the competition pays tribute to the legacy of Justice Gurudas D. Kamat, the first Goan Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court.
Set against the backdrop of an evolving Indian judicial system, the competition underscores the importance of moot courts in preparing law students for real courtroom practice. By simulating legal proceedings, such platforms help students develop critical skills including legal research, analytical thinking, articulation and advocacy.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, with Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary of the Government of Goa, gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. Also present were VMSCL Principal Dr. Shaber Ali, Trustee of the G.D. Kamat Memorial Trust Ramachandra B. Bhatkar, Vice Chairperson Bhaskar Nayak, Faculty In-Charge Dr. Pearl Monteiro, and student coordinator Anushka Patil, among others.
Welcoming the gathering, the Principal of VMSCL highlighted the significance of moot courts in shaping confident, responsible and ethically grounded legal professionals. He commended the efforts of faculty members and student volunteers in successfully organising the event, concluding his address with a reflective note on justice and perseverance.
In his keynote address, Dr. Candavelou described law as a noble yet demanding profession that calls for integrity, dedication and lifelong learning. He encouraged participants to view moot courts not merely as competitions, but as opportunities to build clarity of thought, strengthen research capabilities and gain confidence in advocacy. Drawing parallels between classroom learning and real courtroom practice, he emphasised the role of such platforms in preparing students for professional challenges.
Ramachandra B. Bhatkar shared insights into the life and contributions of Justice G.D. Kamat, highlighting his values, journey and impact on the judiciary. Prof. Bhaskar Nayak elaborated on the vision behind the competition, stressing its role in nurturing analytical thinking, advocacy and research skills among aspiring lawyers.
Dr. Pearl Monteiro, Faculty In-Charge, addressed the participants and underscored the academic significance of mooting. She noted that beyond argumentation, moot courts foster teamwork, structured thinking and respect for constitutional values. She also appreciated the participation of 26 teams from across the country and acknowledged the support of judges, trustees, faculty and volunteers.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the trophies for the 2026 edition, marking a celebratory moment for both organisers and participants. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by student coordinator Anushka Patil.
The three-day competition, scheduled from February 26 to 28, 2026, will see teams engage in rigorous rounds of arguments based on a contemporary legal issue focusing on caste and economic-based reservations within the framework of constitutional mandates.
The final round will be held on the concluding day, followed by the valedictory ceremony. The winning team will receive a cash prize of ₹50,000, while the runners-up will be awarded ₹25,000, along with trophies and certificates. Individual awards for Best Speaker, Best Researcher and Best Memorial will also be presented, recognising excellence across various aspects of mooting.
Continuing its legacy, the Justice G.D. Kamat Memorial National Level Moot Court Competition remains a significant platform for law students across India, fostering advocacy skills, legal research and a deeper understanding of the justice system.
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