Heartiest congratulations to Nandakumar E. Parab, IFS, on being conferred the Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence and Innovation in Governance and Public Service Delivery, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and commitment to public service.
During his tenure as Managing Director and General Manager of the Goa Forest Development Corporation, as well as Deputy Conservator of Forests, Parab spearheaded impactful reforms that strengthened eco-tourism initiatives, ensured financial transparency, and addressed long-pending audits. His efforts laid the foundation for sustainability-driven growth within the forest sector.
Under his leadership, several landmark initiatives took shape, including the Goa Cashew Fest—now recognised as a State Festival—and major eco-tourism projects across Dudhsagar, Bondla, Netravali, Salaulim, Canacona Nagar Van, and other regions. These initiatives successfully integrated conservation goals with community participation and responsible development.
The award recognises a dedicated officer whose vision and administrative acumen have left a lasting imprint on Goa’s forests, governance framework, and sustainable future.
Panaji, July 1, 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened a strategic meeting to plan the promotion of Goa’s rich culinary heritage as part of its monsoon tourism campaign for the month of July and August. This initiative falls under the broader #GlowOnArrival campaign, which aims to offer immersive and regenerative experiences to visitors during the monsoon season.
The meeting was chaired by Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik along with Managing Director of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; OSD to Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Shawn Mendes; General Manager, GTDC, Shri Gavin Dias; Dy. General Manager (Marketing), GTDC Shri Deepak Narvekar; Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar; President of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) Shri Jack Sukhija; and several representatives from the state’s hospitality sector.
The initiative aims to position Goa as India’s leading food destination by curating special culinary celebrations where every cuisine from authentic Goan dishes to regional Indian fare and global flavours is showcased across the state. The campaign is designed to highlight how food can be a powerful lens to explore Goa’s vibrant culture, people, and landscapes, especially during the lush and immersive monsoon season. It aims to invite tourists to engage with Goa’s diverse food heritage while showcasing the seamless fusion of global influences with local ingredients through events where chefs use local Goan produce and restaurants present cross-cultural culinary experiences.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, said, “The objective of this initiative is to offer visitors an opportunity to experience a unique side of Goa during the monsoon through its diverse culinary traditions and evolving food culture. By highlighting both traditional monsoon delicacies and contemporary global dishes prepared with local ingredients, we aim to present Goa as a destination where food reflects heritage, creativity, and a deep sense of place.”
As part of #GlowOnArrival monsoon campaign, Goa Tourism has also introduced month-wise thematic promotions that will run from June to September 2025. These include: June showcased Festivals of Goa, and highlighted vibrant seasonal celebrations such as Sao Joao and Chikhal Kalo;August – Experience & Adventures of Goa, promoting eco-adventures such as monsoon treks, plantation visits, and soft adventure activities; and September, along with World Tourism Day, spotlights Goa’s diverse attractions—from forts and monuments to waterfalls, museums, and scenic drives.
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, will continue working to strengthen Goa’s brand as a regenerative, culturally rich, and flavour-forward tourism destination during the monsoons.
Panaji, June 23, 2025 – The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) is inviting nature lovers and adventure seekers to experience the magic of the monsoons with a special Trekking Expedition to Tambdi Surla Waterfalls, scheduled for Sunday, 29th June 2025.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, this monsoon trek offers participants a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
🌧️ Explore Goa’s Monsoon Magic
Monsoon in Goa transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise, and few places capture this seasonal charm better than Tambdi Surla Waterfalls. Nestled deep within the forest, the falls cascade into a serene natural pool — an ideal spot for a refreshing dip amidst nature.
The trail to the waterfall begins at the famous Tambdi Surla Shiva Temple, a revered 12th-century monument built in the Kadamba style of architecture. A visit to this ancient temple adds a spiritual and historical dimension to the trek.
🌿 A Trek for the Adventurous and the Curious
The trek is moderately challenging, taking approximately 90 minutes one way, and is suitable for participants in good physical health. Along the way, trekkers will experience:
Dense tropical forests
Flowing monsoon-fed streams
Rich biodiversity including birds, butterflies, and flora
The peaceful sounds of the forest and rushing waters
This immersive journey offers a deep connection with nature and is ideal for trekking enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to explore Goa beyond its beaches.
🚌 Travel & Logistical Information
GTDC has arranged convenient transport from multiple locations to ensure a hassle-free experience for participants:
Mapusa Residency: Departure at 7:00 AM
Margao Residency: Departure at 6:45 AM
Paryatan Bhavan, Panaji: Reporting time at 7:30 AM
Additional Pick-up Points: Old Goa, Banasthari, Farmagudi, and Ponda
💰 Registration & Inclusions
The trekking expedition is priced at ₹1400/- per person, which includes:
Transport to and from the site
Professional guiding services
Nutritious lunch
Participants are advised to carry:
Rainwear and an extra pair of clothes
Trekking shoes or sturdy footwear
Snacks, water bottle, and binoculars
A spirit of adventure and respect for nature
Note: Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited. Participants are urged to avoid littering and refrain from using plastic in the sanctuary area to help preserve the natural ecosystem.
🌱 Promoting Eco and Adventure Tourism
This initiative is part of GTDC’s ongoing efforts to promote nature-based and adventure tourism in Goa’s lesser-explored hinterlands, especially during the vibrant monsoon season. By spotlighting hidden gems like Tambdi Surla, GTDC aims to encourage sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and preserves natural heritage.
📞 Booking & Contact Information
Interested participants can book their trek or get more information by contacting:
