Category: Goan Personalities

Goan Personalities

John Aguiar Honoured with DGCD Silver Commendation Award for Outstanding Civil Defence Service

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In a proud moment for Goa, John Aguiar, Civil Defence Warden of Panaji Town, has been awarded the Director General Civil Defence (DGCD) Silver Commendation Disc and Commendation Card by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The honour was bestowed in recognition of his exceptional service, unblemished record, and remarkable dedication on the occasion of the 63rd Home Guards and Civil Defence Raising Day 2025.

The prestigious DGCD Silver Commendation Disc acknowledges individuals from Fire Services, Civil Defence, and Home Guards organisations whose service exemplifies exceptional merit and reliability. John Aguiar stands as a shining example of commitment, leadership, and selfless public service.

Exceptional Service During the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aguiar displayed extraordinary initiative — writing innovative COVID-awareness songs, volunteering for vaccine trials, and receiving recognition as a COVID Warrior by the Chief Minister of Goa.

A Career Marked by Dedication & Achievement
Aguiar has undergone several key training programmes and participated in mock disaster management exercises conducted by INCOIS, DDMA, SDMA, and NDMA. His experience spans multiple vital departments, including serving as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Goa Police Department, where he played a pivotal role in public communication and media coordination.

He has also held the honorary position of Company Commander, Home Guards, earning numerous accolades including:

  • Goa Chief Minister’s Gold Medal
  • President’s Home Guard & Civil Defence Medal for Meritorious Service (2012)
  • President’s Home Guard & Civil Defence Medal for Distinguished Service (2021)

These awards were presented by former Chief Minister late Manohar Parrikar and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, respectively — signifying his long-term, consistent commitment to the State.

Leadership in Ceremonial Duties
Aguiar led the Home Guards contingent in several State-level Republic Day parades and served as Parade Commander during Home Guards Raising Day celebrations on December 6, 2011 — reflecting his leadership excellence and discipline.

A Multifaceted Professional
Beyond public service, Aguiar has also held significant administrative roles, including:

  • Information Officer, Department of Information & Publicity
  • Additional Private Secretary (APS) to Union Minister Eduardo Faleiro at the Ministries of External Affairs, Chemicals & Fertilizers, and Finance

He is also widely known as a writer, poet, lyricist, TV host, and senior journalist, contributing richly to Goa’s cultural and media landscape.

John Aguiar’s journey is an inspiring testament to service, resilience, and unwavering dedication — making Goa proud once again.

Goan Personalities

A Proud Family Moment: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo Announces Son & Parra Sarpanch Daniel Lobo’s Engagement

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Calangute, Goa: A moment of immense pride and happiness filled the Lobo household as Calangute MLA Michael Lobo celebrated the engagement of his son, Daniel Lobo, who currently serves as the Sarpanch of Village Panchayat Parra (V.P. Parra).

Surrounded by family, friends and well-wishers, the ceremony marked a cherished milestone for the prominent Calangute-Parra family. The engagement was celebrated with grace and warmth, reflecting the family’s deep connection with the community.

MLA Michael Lobo expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who extended their blessings, love and kind wishes to Daniel and his fiancée. He shared that the family feels truly blessed as the young couple begins a new chapter built on love, trust and shared dreams.

As Sarpanch of Parra, Daniel has been actively involved in community development and public welfare initiatives. His engagement was met with warm congratulations from residents, colleagues, and supporters across Parra and Calangute, who celebrated the beginning of this beautiful new journey for him.

The engagement marked not just a personal milestone but also a moment of collective joy for the community that has long supported the Lobo family.

Goan Personalities

LoP Yuri Alemao Calls for a Fresh Start as Goans Urged to Unite for Change

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s political discourse received a renewed spark as Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao called for a united and people-centered political movement during a significant gathering on Sunday. Emphasizing that “Goa comes first,” Alemao said that the state needs a fresh beginning rooted in clean, transparent, and accountable governance. He urged all opposition parties to look beyond individual interests and unite to rebuild Goa in a way that reflects the aspirations of its people.

Alemao expressed confidence that such unity would create serious concern for the ruling BJP, suggesting that a consolidated opposition could alter the political balance in the state. His remarks were made in the presence of several prominent political figures, including AICC Incharge Manikrao Thakare, GPCC President Amit Patkar, CWC Permanent Invitee Girish Chodankar, MLAs Vijai Sardesai, Carlos Ferreira, Altone D’costa, and Viresh Borkar, along with RGP chief Manoj Parab and multiple Congress block presidents. The gathering underscored a rare moment of collective intent among varied political groups in Goa, signaling a potential shift toward collaboration rather than fragmentation. As voices calling for cleaner politics grow louder, the event marked a possible turning point — one that could reshape the future of Goa’s governance.

Goan Personalities

Goa Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar Pens a Heartfelt Note: Celebrating My Daughters — Drithi & Druthi! ✨🎂

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Today is a deeply emotional and joyous day for Goa Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar, as he celebrates the birthdays of his two precious daughters — Drithi & Druthi.


With a heart overflowing with love and gratitude, he shares a touching message that reflects the bond he cherishes with his children.

“Today, my heart is full as I celebrate the birthdays of my two precious daughters. Your love, innocence, and strength inspire me every single day. May God guide your path and bless your lives with joy, good health, and endless success. You both are my pride and my greatest blessing.”

Behind the responsibilities of public life lies a devoted father whose world revolves around the laughter, dreams, and happiness of his daughters.
Drithi & Druthi bring a unique warmth into his life — a reminder of humility, love, and purpose.

This heartfelt note is not just a birthday wish; it is a celebration of fatherhood, gratitude, and the blessings that children bring.
As they grow, MLA Arolkar prays that they walk the path of kindness, courage, and success — guided by God’s grace and surrounded by love.

Today, he celebrates them… and the beautiful journey they share as a family. 💫💖

Goan Personalities

New Curti-Khandepar Panchayat Ghar to Be Named After Late Former CM Ravi Naik

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The upcoming New Panchayat House Ghar will soon stand as a tribute to one of Goa’s respected leaders, former Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister late Ravi Naik. In recognition of his enduring contributions to the state and his legacy in strengthening agricultural and local governance initiatives, the Panchayat body has unanimously resolved to name the new building in his honour.

Sarpanch Naved Tehsildar shared that the process of land acquisition for the construction of the new Panchayat House Ghar is nearing completion. He expressed gratitude for the cooperation and support extended by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who has assured full assistance in ensuring the timely execution of the project.

“The Panchayat body has taken a resolution to name the new Panchayat House after former Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister late Ravi Naik as a mark of respect for his immense contribution to public service and governance,” said Tehsildar. He added that the foundation stone for the project will soon be laid, marking a significant milestone in local infrastructure development.

This decision has been welcomed by residents and local representatives alike, who view it as a fitting tribute to a leader remembered for his dedication to rural progress, governance reforms, and the betterment of Goa’s agrarian community. The new Panchayat House Ghar is expected to serve as a vital centre for local administration and community activities, carrying forward the values of service and commitment that Ravi Naik embodied throughout his political career.