Events in Goa

Goa Journalist Awards 2025 Presented by CM Dr. Pramod Sawant on National Press Day


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant presented the Goa Journalist Awards 2025 to nine distinguished journalists on the occasion of National Press Day at the Institute of Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji. The event celebrated and acknowledged the contributions of media professionals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to public-interest journalism throughout the year. The Best Editor Award on National Integration and Communal Harmony was conferred upon Shri Pandurang Gaonkar, while Shri Ajay Buva was recognised for his impactful rural reporting. Ms Ramandeep Kaur received the award for reporting in public health and hygiene, highlighting her work in bringing key health-related issues to the forefront. Smt Vibha Verma was honoured for reporting with special reference to women, children, and social issues.

In the field of sports journalism, Shri Marcus Mergulhao was awarded for his consistent and insightful sports reporting. Ms Gauree Malkarnekar received recognition for her remarkable work in reporting on art and culture, while Shri Rajtilak Naik was awarded in the category of Photojournalism for producing the Best Photograph of the Year. Ms Christine Machado was felicitated for excellence in reporting on education, and Shri Sameep Narvekar was honoured for his reporting on achievements of the Government. Their contributions represented a diverse spectrum of journalistic impact, reflecting the evolving needs of society and the essential role of the press in shaping informed public discourse.

The event was graced by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Information & Publicity) Shri Sarpreet Singh Gill, IAS, Director of the Department of Information & Publicity Shri Dipak Bandekar, and Goa Union of Journalists President Shri Rajtilak Naik. The occasion underscored the governmentโ€™s recognition of the mediaโ€™s role in upholding democratic values, promoting accountability, and serving as a bridge between the public and policymakers. The ceremony reaffirmed the importance of responsible journalism and celebrated the dedication of individuals who continue to pursue truth, awareness, and social progress through their work.

Books & Literature

Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Launches โ€œGova Annasanskrutiโ€ by Vinayak Khedekar


Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant released โ€œGova Annasanskrutiโ€, a book authored by Padma Shri awardee Shri Vinayak Khedekar, at the Mantralaya, Porvorim. The publication, released under the Department of Information & Publicity, delves into the richness of Goaโ€™s culinary heritage, tracing traditional food practices and recipes that have been passed down through generations.

The event witnessed the presence of notable personalities including Information Officer DIP Shri Kiran Munankar and social worker and writer Smt. Shubhada Sawaikar. Through โ€œGova Annasanskrutiโ€, readers can explore the cultural nuances of Goan cuisine, from local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to the stories behind popular dishes.

The book serves not only as a culinary guide but also as a cultural record, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating Goaโ€™s gastronomic traditions. Attendees lauded the effort, highlighting its potential to inspire both locals and tourists to appreciate the depth of Goan food culture.

By showcasing Goaโ€™s vibrant culinary practices, the book reinforces the stateโ€™s identity as a hub of heritage, flavor, and tradition, ensuring that the legacy of its cuisine continues to be celebrated for generations to come.