Tag: Goa News

Automobiles

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

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

Travel

Goa to Sign MoU with Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya to Boost Wellness Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant development aimed at positioning Goa as a hub for wellness and holistic health tourism, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte announced that the State will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with B.S.P’s Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya & Research Centre (GAM&RC), Shiroda. The MoU is set to serve as an umbrella for future collaborative initiatives in Ayurvedic research, education, and integrative health tourism.

The announcement was made during the 10th Ayurveda Day celebrations, held under the theme “Ayurveda for People and Planet.” The event underscored GAM&RC’s dedication to promoting sustainable healthcare solutions rooted in ancient wisdom, adapted for the modern world.

A landmark moment in the event was the inauguration of Goa’s first Cancer OPD in Ayurveda. This facility opens new avenues for integrative cancer care, where patients can access support that blends traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern medical frameworks. This approach not only addresses physical health but also emphasizes mental and emotional wellbeing, offering a holistic pathway to healing for patients and their families.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, the Chief Guest at the event, praised the institute’s legacy of producing over 1,000 graduates and its ongoing contribution to healthcare and community service. Highlighting the institute’s impact on women’s empowerment and Ayurvedic tourism, he emphasized the need for innovation and integration of technology in the wellness sector. “In a developed India, people are actively seeking holistic alternatives. With awareness rising and choices expanding, wellness has become not just a personal goal but a lifestyle,” he stated.

The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries including Shri Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Water Resources and Corporation, who served as Guest of Honour. Other attendees included Dr. Yogesh Bendale of Ayurved Rasayani, Pune, Dr. Sneha Bhagwat, President of Goa Council of Ayurveda, and Adv. Narendra K. Sawaikar, President of Bharateeya Sanskriti Prabodhini, alongside senior faculty of GAM&RC.

The State’s collaboration with GAM&RC is seen as a forward-thinking step to leverage Goa’s natural, cultural, and educational assets in Ayurveda. By integrating traditional knowledge with tourism infrastructure, the government aims to attract both domestic and international visitors seeking authentic, regenerative experiences.

This partnership reflects Goa’s commitment to nurturing skilled Ayurvedic professionals, boosting local employment, and positioning the state as a national leader in wellness tourism—offering much more than just scenic beaches, but a complete ecosystem for healing, learning, and sustainable living.

Social

Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai Distributes School Materials Through Deccan Fine Chemicals’ CSR Initiative

Tanisha Cardozo

In a strong gesture of support toward grassroots education, Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai led the distribution of school materials to students from government primary schools across Corlim, Old Goa, Cumbarjua, Carambolim, Adkon, Bhoma, and Marcela. This initiative was carried out under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program of Deccan Fine Chemicals.

The event was marked by the presence of key stakeholders from both the company and the community, including CSR Head Gaurav Kudchadkar, Site Head Kiran Dessai, Human Resources Lead Yogesh Arora, and Assistant Director of Education (A.D.E.I) Neeta Faldessai. Together, they helped ensure that the distribution went smoothly, reaching children across these regions who benefit immensely from such educational support.

This CSR activity highlights the critical role that public-private partnerships can play in uplifting the educational infrastructure in semi-urban and rural areas. By equipping students with the basic materials they need to participate in learning, this initiative sends a powerful message about inclusivity, opportunity, and the long-term benefits of investment in education.

For the young students who received the school kits, the gesture goes beyond notebooks and pencils — it represents recognition, encouragement, and hope. It is a reminder that education is a shared responsibility, and that collaboration between elected representatives and corporate citizens can pave the way for lasting community transformation.

EduConnect

Lecture Series V-2.0 in Memory of Late Shri Harish Narayan Prabhu Zantye & Late Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye

Tanisha Cardozo

The Zantye Brothers Educational Foundation, through Narayan Zantye College of Commerce, Bicholim-Goa, proudly hosted Lecture Series V-2.0 — a solemn and inspiring tribute to two iconic personalities who shaped the educational and political landscape of Goa: Late Shri Harish Narayan Prabhu Zantye and Late Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye.

Late Shri Harish Zantye, fondly known as “Anna,” was a towering figure in Goa’s political history — a former Member of Parliament, a respected minister, and a beloved MLA of the Dicholi constituency. His work in education, healthcare, the cooperative movement, and social services remains exemplary. His memory, leadership, and humble approach to governance continue to influence countless lives.

Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye’s contributions to family, society, and community upliftment are equally revered. Her quiet strength and support formed the backbone of the Zantye family’s philanthropic journey.

The event was graced by Shri Pravin Zantye as the President of the Function, along with Guests of Honour — Shri Rohit Zantye, Siddharth Zantye, Pranav Zantye, Abbas Shaikh, and Rishtey Shaikh. The presence of these dignitaries served as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Zantye family’s commitment to social service and education.

A warm homage was paid by those who knew and respected Harish Anna deeply — friends, family, students, and fellow leaders — all united in remembrance and reaffirmation of continuing the noble work he began.

“Sweet memories of Anna…” the message echoed throughout the hall, touching every heart present. It wasn’t just a remembrance — it was a promise. A promise to continue walking the path of values, vision, and selfless service that Anna walked so passionately.

Through Lecture Series V-2.0, the college and its well-wishers not only honour a legacy but commit to future generations that the torch will remain lit. Forever.

rip

Goa Loses Veteran Journalist and Konkani Stalwart Babli Nayak ; Passes Away at 73

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) has expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to senior journalist Babli Nayak, who passed away at the age of 73 after a brief illness on Thursday. Nayak, widely respected in Goa’s media and cultural landscape, was known not only for his journalistic integrity but also for his lifelong dedication to the Konkani language and Goa’s identity.

Nayak began his career with Sunaparant, Goa’s first Konkani daily, from its inception. He rose through the ranks to become its editor and remained with the publication until it ceased operations in 2016. His work at Sunaparant helped shape the discourse on Goan identity and linguistic rights during a transformative era for the state.

Beyond the newsroom, Nayak played a critical role in the 1986 ‘Konkani Projecho Awaz’ movement, which sought recognition for Konkani as the official language of Goa and pushed for its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He was also actively involved in the campaign for Goa’s statehood. His activism was not without sacrifice—he was arrested and jailed at Aguada Fort during the Emergency in 1975 for protesting against the suppression of civil liberties, as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Despite his substantial contributions to journalism and society, Nayak never accepted any awards or public felicitations. He chose to serve quietly but with unwavering dedication, earning the admiration and respect of peers across generations.

The GUJ has conveyed its deepest condolences to the family of Babli Nayak and acknowledged his unmatched role in shaping the media narrative in Goa. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who value fearless journalism and cultural advocacy.