Human Interest

Goa Casinos and Bars to Remain Shut for 24 Hours on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2


On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the Goa government has announced a full 24-hour closure of all casinos and alcohol-serving establishments in the state. This decision, issued by the Department of Home (General), is a symbolic tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s values of non-violence, discipline, and simplicity.

As per the official notification, all casino licensees — including the six offshore and several onshore casinos operating within five-star hotels — are required to halt operations from 12:00 AM on October 2 to 12:00 AM on October 3. Additionally, the state will observe a Dry Day, meaning the sale of alcohol will be strictly prohibited across Goa. This includes all bars, restaurants, wine shops, and retail liquor outlets.

The government has appealed to both locals and tourists to fully cooperate with the restrictions, emphasizing that this day should be observed with reverence and in the spirit of national respect. Authorities have also issued a warning that strict action will be taken against any violations of the shutdown or dry day orders.

Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated every year on October 2, commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, whose life and philosophy continue to inspire peace, reform, and civil rights across the world. The shutdown in Goa reflects a conscious effort to align with the values he stood for and offer the day in quiet respect to his enduring legacy.

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Alcohol and Plastic Banned at Goa Waterfalls to Preserve Natural Beauty


In a significant step toward promoting sustainable and responsible tourism, GFDC Chairperson and Member of the Legislative Assembly Dr. Deviya Rane has announced a strict ban on alcohol and plastic at all of Goa’s popular waterfall sites. The initiative comes as part of a growing effort to curb littering, ensure visitor safety, and preserve the natural beauty of the region’s most cherished ecological zones.

To enforce the new rules, authorities have introduced a series of concrete measures, including the deployment of plastic pickers, installation of strategically placed waste bins, mandatory bag checks for visitors, and fines for violators. These steps are designed not only to maintain cleanliness but also to encourage tourists to be more mindful of their environmental footprint.

Dr. Rane emphasized the importance of responsible tourism, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like waterfalls that are often overwhelmed during tourist seasons. She urged visitors to adhere to the new regulations and help safeguard Goa’s biodiversity and scenic landscapes for future generations. By taking a firm stance against pollution, the initiative seeks to restore the ecological balance while enhancing the experience for all who visit these natural attractions.

This move underscores the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and positions Goa as a leader in eco-friendly tourism practices in India.