Tag: Goa Government

Books & Literature

Zilu Gaonkar Urges Citizens to Use Govt Schemes and Promote Konkani Language

Tanisha Cardozo

Konkani writer, publisher, and teacher Zilu Gaonkar made a compelling appeal for citizens to adopt Konkani in their day-to-day lives and correspondence while encouraging greater awareness and use of government-supported language schemes. Speaking at a special Seva Pakhwada awareness program held at Government College, Khandola, he emphasized that the Directorate of Official Language provides Konkani language training for government employees and that it is now time for the public to follow suit by promoting and preserving the language through daily use.

The event was organized by the Directorate of Official Language in collaboration with the college and aimed to spread awareness of various language development schemes under the guidance of Goa’s Chief Minister and Minister for Official Language, Dr. Pramod Sawant.

Dr. Seema Salgaonkar, Vice Principal of Government College, welcomed the gathering and noted that preserving our mother tongue is a responsibility that lies with each of us. Meghnath Parab, Director of the Directorate of Official Language, cited the example of Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, a distinguished figure from Mashel who received his early education in his mother tongue and went on to achieve national prominence.

Deputy Director Anil Sawant provided detailed insights into key schemes run by the department including “Amcho Gãv, Amchi Parampara, Ani Amchem Daiz” (Our Village, Our Traditions, and Our Heritage), the Language Development Scheme, and the Language Awards Scheme.

Senior Translator Seby Fernandes discussed the opportunities available in language-related careers in India and explained the work being done at the Directorate. Junior Translator Sneha Sabnis highlighted efforts in terminology creation and the translation of knowledge-based books into Konkani, making academic and professional content more accessible in the regional language.

Anil Sawant also expressed his thanks to all participants and attendees. The event was anchored by Konkani Professor Kiran Palkar and Hindi Professor Sachi Naik, with a large presence of students, faculty members, and parents — showing that language revival and promotion remain a shared concern across generations.

Travel

Hon’ble Minister Rohan A. Khaunte Flags Off KTC Electric Bus Service Between Mapusa and Panjim

Tanisha Cardozo

In a progressive move toward greener and smarter mobility solutions, the Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd. (KTCL) has introduced a new electric bus service connecting two major hubs of North Goa—Mapusa and Panaji. The service was officially flagged off by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing & Stationery, and MLA of Porvorim, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, during a ceremony held at Art Park, Porvorim.

The inauguration event witnessed the presence of local leaders including ZP Smt. Kavita Gupesh Naik, Sarpanch Shri Swapnil Chodankar, Sarpanch Smt. Sonia Sanjay Pednekar, and members from the Socorro, Penha De Franca, and Salvador Do Mundo Panchayats. Their participation highlighted the collective community effort toward building sustainable infrastructure.

During the flag-off, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing public transport systems through innovative, sustainable solutions. “The Government of Goa is committed to improving public transport infrastructure with sustainable solutions. The introduction of electric buses on this crucial route not only reduces congestion and travel time but also aligns with our vision of creating a cleaner and greener Goa,” he stated. He further underlined how this initiative supports the Regenerative Tourism model by focusing on environmental sustainability and community welfare.

The two electric buses will operate daily on a fixed route with strategically planned stops, including Paliem, Vaddem, Kharrem, Socorro Church, Ambirna, Paithona, Torda (Ganesh Temple), Art Park, Ramvadeshwar Temple, Britania House, Kavlekar Super Market, Porvorim Old Market (GCA), Maharudra Hanuman Temple (Housing Board), Clock Tower (Gadge Maharaj Hall), and Sanjay School, before reaching the Panaji Bus Stand. The return journey follows the same route in reverse.

Morning services begin at 7:30 AM, with one bus leaving from Mapusa and another from Panaji. Return services operate at 10:00 AM. The afternoon schedule begins at 4:30 PM and concludes with a return trip at 6:30 PM.

This reliable and environment-friendly transportation alternative is expected to be a boon for daily commuters, students, and professionals who travel between the two towns. More importantly, it sets a new benchmark for clean, community-focused public transport systems in the state, contributing significantly to Goa’s broader climate and mobility goals.

Events in Goa

Goa Government Launches 8th Official Language Training Batch

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The 8th batch of Official Language training, organized by the Directorate of Official Languages, Government of Goa, began on 22nd September at the Language Research Centre in Panaji. The event marked yet another step towards the promotion and practical integration of Konkani in administrative functions. North Goa Additional Collector Gurudas Desai attended the inauguration as the chief guest.

In his speech, Mr. Desai emphasized the significance of preserving the mother tongue, stating, “Konkani is our mother tongue. We all should make maximum use of it, and we should take care of our mother tongue. The knowledge gained from this training must be implemented in administration.” His remarks underlined the cultural and administrative importance of Konkani, especially within the context of government operations.

The inaugural event was also graced by Director of Official Language Meghnath Parab and Deputy Director Anil Sawant. Director Parab reiterated that knowledge of Konkani is a mandatory requirement for securing a government job in Goa and highlighted the responsibility of civil servants to work in Rajbhasha once employed. Deputy Director Anil Sawant added that the language training should not end with the program, but continue to be applied consistently in government work.

This four-day training program includes various modules such as Konkani Grammar, Konkani Correspondence, Notes, Administrative Vocabulary, and Communication. A total of 25 government employees are participating in this intensive language workshop.

Guidance throughout the program is provided by language experts including Anil Sawant, Sebi Fernandes, Chetan Acharya, and Sneha Sabnis. The sessions are being conducted by a dedicated team comprising Franita Ribeiro, Sujit Naik, Mansi Gadgil, Mahananda Mhardolkar, Anusaya Gaonkar, Patrick D’Souza, Shobha Phadte, Nikita Kuttikar, Ashish Ghadi, Ashweta Parab, Nirmala Surlikar, and Naresh Pagi. Anil Sawant is the main coordinator of the training, with Sneha Sabnis serving as the assistant coordinator.

The initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to not just preserving the Konkani language but actively integrating it into the administrative framework, ensuring that it remains a living, working language for generations to come.

Social

Aamir Khan Meets Minister Subhash Phal Dessai to Support Purple Fest & Disability Inclusion

Tanisha Cardozo

Hon’ble Minister Shri Subhash Phal Dessai recently engaged in a productive and meaningful conversation with one of India’s most respected film personalities, Mr. Aamir Khan, to discuss the upcoming Purple Fest and the broader vision for empowering Persons with Disabilities. The meeting marked a significant convergence of government initiative and influential advocacy, setting the tone for impactful collaborations.

Mr. Aamir Khan, often hailed as the “Mr. Perfectionist” of Indian cinema, is known for pushing creative and social boundaries through his films. With titles such as Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, and Dangal under his belt, Khan has long used his platform to raise awareness about critical societal issues. His alignment with the goals of the Purple Fest — a unique celebration dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility — is both timely and inspiring.

During the interaction, Minister Phal Dessai shared insights into the various programs being implemented to ensure greater inclusion and support for Persons with Disabilities in Goa and beyond. He emphasized that platforms like Purple Fest are not merely celebratory events but catalysts for long-term change and awareness. The Minister expressed optimism that with Mr. Khan’s encouragement and visibility, these efforts would gain wider reach and deeper resonance across the country.

Aamir Khan expressed genuine interest and support for the mission, reiterating the importance of community participation, systemic inclusion, and dignity for all citizens regardless of ability. His involvement is expected to bring nationwide attention to the festival and reinforce the message of inclusive development.

The collaboration between thought leaders in governance and culture reflects a shared commitment to building a society that leaves no one behind. As preparations for the Purple Fest gather momentum, this meeting is a promising sign of the impactful conversations and actions yet to come.

Social

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

Tanisha Cardozo

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.