Goan Personalities

Governor and Chief Minister Extend New Year 2026 Greetings, Call for Unity, Harmony and Inclusive Development


Panaji, December 31, 2025: As the State ushers in New Year 2026, the Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, and Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant have conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Goa and Goans living across the world, calling for unity, harmony, and collective progress.

In his New Year message, Governor Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju described the beginning of a new year as a time of renewal, hope, and fresh beginnings. He urged citizens to reflect on their shared journey, appreciate Goa’s rich cultural heritage, and renew their commitment to peace, harmony, and societal welfare. Expressing optimism for the year ahead, the Governor said he hoped 2026 would bring joy, peace, and prosperity to every home, and encouraged Goans to move forward together with dedication and unity.

Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, in his message, also extended warm New Year greetings and expressed hope that the coming year would usher in peace, prosperity, good health, and happiness for every Goan. He appealed to citizens to continue supporting the Government’s efforts in effectively implementing welfare schemes and development initiatives across the State.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to building a resilient and progressive Goa, the Chief Minister urged people to actively participate in the Swayampurna Goa mission, which aims to promote self-reliance, empower individuals and communities, strengthen local governance, and create sustainable livelihoods.

Acknowledging Goa’s long-standing legacy of peaceful coexistence and religious harmony, Dr Sawant called upon citizens to uphold the values of mutual respect, unity, and collective well-being. He noted that this spirit of togetherness remains one of Goa’s greatest strengths and must continue to guide the State in the year ahead.

Both leaders expressed confidence that with public cooperation, unity, and shared commitment, Goa would continue to progress on the path of inclusive and sustainable development in 2026.

Events in Goa

Goa Government to Observe ‘Seva Pakhwada’ from September 17 to October 2


The Government of Goa has announced that it will observe Seva Pakhwada, a 16-day initiative from September 17 to October 2, 2025, to mark the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This nation-wide campaign aims to promote participatory governance and amplify key development missions under the Central Government.

The Chief Minister of Goa stated that the Seva Pakhwada initiative is a platform to showcase the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and reflect Goa’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and public service. A variety of impactful activities will be conducted across the state during this period.

Key highlights of the campaign include cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat mission, tree plantation drives to promote environmental awareness, and seminars and awareness sessions aimed at familiarizing citizens with flagship government schemes. There will also be strong focus on the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement, encouraging citizens to support homegrown products, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

The campaign will also serve as a platform to reach out to people at the grassroots level, encouraging participation in government programs and celebrating India’s vision for 2047 as it moves toward becoming a developed and self-reliant nation.

The initiative aligns with national goals while maintaining a strong focus on local implementation, with the Goa Government taking proactive steps to ensure wide outreach and participation.

Citizens, institutions, and civil society members are invited to join hands during Seva Pakhwada and contribute to the cause through voluntary action, public engagement, and social service.

Events in Goa

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant Felicitates Veteran Journalist Shekhar Samant on Patrakar Din 2025


Sankhali, Goa — On the solemn occasion of Lokmanya Tilak Punyatithi, the Government of Goa observed Patrakar Din 2025 with a dedicated event at Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant.

Highlighting the vital role of journalism in a democratic society, the Chief Minister took the opportunity to felicitate Shri Shekhar Samant, Editor of Tarun Bharat, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg edition. Shri Samant has been a distinguished figure in regional journalism, known for his unwavering commitment to truth and regional storytelling.

During his address, Dr. Sawant emphasized the legacy of Lokmanya Tilak, one of India’s foremost freedom fighters and a stalwart of nationalist journalism. “Today’s media has a crucial role in shaping informed societies. We must continue to uphold the principles that leaders like Tilak stood for,” the CM noted.

The felicitation of Shri Shekhar Samant was met with applause and respect, as peers and well-wishers acknowledged his longstanding dedication to journalistic integrity. The Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his continued success.

The event served as a meaningful reminder of the responsibilities and influence the press holds in society—especially in an era where authenticity in reporting is more crucial than ever.

📍 Event Venue: Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali
📅 Occasion: Lokmanya Tilak Punyatithi | Patrakar Din 2025
🎖️ Honoree: Shri Shekhar Samant, Editor, Tarun Bharat (Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg)