Social

JCI Ponda Unveils Second Edition of START Magazine in the Presence of Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant


It was a proud moment for JCI Ponda as the organization inaugurated the second edition of its flagship magazine START – Stories That Amplify Real Transformation on 2nd November 2025. The event took place in the presence of Hon. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who unveiled the new edition, commending the efforts of JCI Ponda for its continued contribution to community development and leadership building in Goa.

The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests including JFD Shaba Gauns (Zone President), JFD Chetan Salelkar (Zone Director – Business), JFM Vadiraj Inamdar (LO President), JFM Muskan Naik (Secretary), JC Akash Mangueshkar (Immediate Past President), JC HGF Janhavi Naik (Past President), and JC HGF Amey Tilve (Member), all of whom contributed to making the occasion memorable.

The START magazine, known for showcasing stories of leadership, innovation, and transformation, encapsulates the impactful initiatives undertaken by JCI Ponda throughout 2025. From community-driven projects to youth leadership programs, the publication serves as a reflection of the organization’s mission to inspire positive change.

Speaking on the occasion, members expressed gratitude to JFD Chetan Salelkar for his valuable guidance and contribution in making this edition and launch event a grand success.

The ceremony was marked by a spirit of pride and unity, highlighting JCI Ponda’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young leaders and fostering meaningful change within the community.

With its second edition of START, JCI Ponda continues to amplify stories that drive transformation — reaffirming its position as a beacon of leadership, service, and progress in Goa.

Books & Literature

Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Launches “Gova Annasanskruti” by Vinayak Khedekar


Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant released “Gova Annasanskruti”, 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 Goa’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 “Gova Annasanskruti”, 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 Goa’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 Goa’s vibrant culinary practices, the book reinforces the state’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.

Automobiles

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates 1st Goa Auto Show 2025, Spotlight on Electric Vehicles


The 1st Edition of the Goa Auto Show 2025 was inaugurated at Kala Academy, Panaji, by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in the presence of Transport and Panchayat Minister Shri Mauvin Godinho and other dignitaries. This landmark event brings together leading automobile brands and cutting-edge technology to showcase the future of transport, with a special emphasis on Next Generation Electric Vehicles (EVs).

As the state of Goa pushes forward in its mission toward clean and sustainable urban mobility, this exhibition serves as a dynamic platform for innovation and public engagement. Citizens, industry professionals, students, and auto enthusiasts are invited to experience the latest trends in green transportation, including high-efficiency EVs, smart mobility systems, eco-conscious design, and advanced automotive engineering.

The show reflects Goa’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and integrating future-forward infrastructure into its transportation ecosystem. By spotlighting electric vehicles and green technologies, the Goa Auto Show 2025 is more than just an expo—it is a step toward environmental responsibility, lifestyle change, and technological evolution.

The Kala Academy exhibition space has been transformed into a vibrant arena of mobility, featuring top Indian and international automotive brands, interactive displays, test drive zones, and educational booths. This open-to-all event is designed to inspire curiosity, encourage informed consumer decisions, and spark conversations about the role of transport in a sustainable future.

With Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasizing the government’s proactive support for green innovation, and Shri Mauvin Godinho highlighting the importance of public engagement in the EV movement, the Goa Auto Show sets a precedent for similar initiatives in the future.

Whether you’re an industry insider, student, or simply an enthusiast, this event is an opportunity to witness the road ahead—where smart, sustainable, and electric is not just a concept, but a reality in motion.

Finance

Dr. Pramod Sawant Chairs EDC Limited Board Meeting; ₹77 Crore Profit Before Tax Approved for FY 2024-25


Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant chaired the 405th Board Meeting of EDC Limited, reinforcing the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and performance in public sector undertakings.

At the meeting, the Board approved the Consolidated Accounts for the Financial Year 2024-25. EDC Limited reported ₹137 crore in revenue and ₹60 crore in expenses, resulting in a Profit Before Tax of ₹77 crore. This strong financial performance underscores the effective governance and strategic financial management employed under the leadership of Dr. Sawant and the Board.

The profitability of EDC Limited is a testament to its significant role in promoting entrepreneurship, industrial development, and financial support in the state of Goa. These results not only reflect sound fiscal discipline but also the broader vision of sustainable and inclusive economic growth envisioned by the government.

Dr. Pramod Sawant continues to lead from the front, ensuring that institutions like EDC Limited contribute meaningfully to the state’s development goals and economic self-reliance.

Social

Goa CM Inaugurates “Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman” to Reimagine and Restore the State’s Lakes


The Government of Goa has launched a major initiative to restore and reimagine the state’s precious water bodies through “Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman.” The Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, inaugurated a dedicated brainstorming session for this mission at the Panaji Gymkhana, Campal. Organized by the Department of Environment & Climate Change, the event marks a pivotal step toward sustainable water management in the region.

Bringing together leading experts, the session featured insights from Dr. Sharad P. Kale, Ex-Scientist at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), renowned for his contributions to environmental science and waste management. The session also saw participation from Shri Arun Kumar Mishra, IAS, Secretary (Environment); Dr. Levinson Martins, IAS, Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board; Dr. Geeta Nagvenkar, Member Secretary, GSPCB; Shri Dyaneshwar Salekar, Chief Engineer at the Water Resources Department; and Shri Sachin Desai, Director of the Department of Environment & Climate Change.

The brainstorming session focused on practical frameworks and scientific approaches to rejuvenate lakes across the state, with the aim to promote ecological balance, sustainable development, and climate resilience. The presence of top environmental officials and scientists signals the government’s strong commitment to preserving Goa’s natural water heritage. The initiative also reflects broader climate adaptation goals and aligns with both local and national sustainability objectives.

“Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman” is expected to not only breathe new life into Goa’s neglected lakes but also act as a model for community-led, science-backed restoration efforts across India. The Government of Goa continues to take proactive steps in ensuring a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come.