In a distinguished ceremony held in Panjim, Tukaram V Marathe, a senior reporter with Prime TV Goa, was conferred the “Pride of Goa Award 2025” for Best Journalist. The award recognizes his exemplary contributions to journalism, particularly in highlighting social issues and promoting regional culture through his reporting.
The event was graced by Minister Subhash Phaldesai and MLA Daji Salkar, who lauded Marathe’s dedication to truth and his role in keeping the administration accountable. Minister Phaldesai emphasized the importance of ethical journalism in a democratic society, stating that the press serves as a mirror to the administration and plays a crucial role in societal development.
Marathe’s journalistic journey has been marked by a commitment to uncovering stories that matter to the Goan community. His investigative reports have shed light on various social issues, earning him respect among peers and readers alike. The Pride of Goa Award 2025 is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the field of journalism.
The ceremony also featured discussions on the evolving landscape of media in Goa, with speakers highlighting the challenges and responsibilities faced by journalists in the digital age. The event underscored the need for journalists to adapt to new technologies while upholding the core values of truth and integrity.
As Tukaram V Marathe continues his journalistic endeavors, the Pride of Goa Award 2025 stands as a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his commitment to impactful storytelling and his contribution to the media landscape in Goa.
Sanquelim, Goa | June 5, 2025 — In a powerful step towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship, Molbio Diagnostics, a leader in healthcare innovation, has donated 10 electric garbage collection vehicles to the Sankhalim Municipal Council in Goa. This green initiative, launched in partnership with the Goa CSR Authority, reflects Molbio’s growing commitment to cleaner communities and climate-conscious solutions.
The formal handover ceremony took place today in the presence of Dr. Pramod P. Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, underlining the state’s strong focus on embracing sustainable technologies in municipal services.
⚡ A Green Push for Goa’s Municipal Waste Management
The electric vehicles, designed for solid waste collection, will now serve across the Sankhali constituency, streamlining daily waste collection with zero emissions and low operational costs. By reducing reliance on diesel-fueled transport, the move is expected to save several lakhs annually in fuel expenses while simultaneously cutting down the carbon footprint of waste management operations.
This contribution is part of Goa’s larger vision under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan and ties into the Chief Minister’s sustainability agenda, which emphasizes non-polluting technologies and efficient civic systems.
🌿 Driving Sustainable Impact
Speaking at the event, Amol Lone, President & CFO of Molbio Diagnostics Ltd., emphasized the dual impact of the initiative:
“At Molbio, we believe innovation should serve both people and the planet. Clean surroundings have a direct impact on quality of life, and these electric vehicles are a small but meaningful step toward healthy living and a more sustainable future. We’re glad to play our part in shaping that future.”
The initiative aligns closely with Molbio’s CSR mission, which focuses on blending healthcare, technology, and environmental action to improve lives while protecting natural ecosystems.
🤝 Public-Private Synergy
The collaboration between Molbio Diagnostics and the Goa CSR Authority showcases the positive outcomes that result when private enterprises and public institutions align their resources and goals. The donated vehicles are expected to greatly enhance the Sankhalim Municipal Council’s capacity to:
Collect domestic waste more efficiently
Reduce emissions from daily municipal operations
Lower maintenance and fuel costs
Improve the overall cleanliness and hygiene of local neighborhoods
This marks a significant milestone in Goa’s green infrastructure journey, and further cements Molbio’s status as a socially responsible business leader.
Ms Pratima Gaurish Dhond has been elected as the First Woman President of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the term 2025 – 2027. Ms Pratima G Dhond will assume charge as the President of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 01.07.2025 at the end of the term of the current President Mr Shrinivas Dempo. She is the First Woman President in 117 years history of the Chamber.
With a passion for women’s empowerment, Pratima Dhond has dedicated her career to uplifting women through various initiatives and leadership roles. She’s been at the helm of the Women’s Cooperative Bank since 1993 and has chaired the Women’s Wing of GCCI for 8 years, launching the flagship event “Asturi” to promote women’s entrepreneurship. As a Director of Wakao Foods and the Dhond Group of Companies, Pratima is a force to be reckoned with in the business world. She’s also a seasoned Rotarian, serving as Charter President of Rotary Club of Miramar and holding various positions in the club. With a national-level basketball background and alumni status from Peoples High School Panaji and Dempo Commerce College, Pratima is a true Goan powerhouse! Personally, she’s married to businessman and social worker Gaurish Dhond and is blessed with three children, two sons-in-law, and two adorable grandsons. The Following 14 Member Managing Committee was also elected for the term 2025-27.
Margao, May 29, 2025 – The Pai Tiatrist Auditorium in Margao, a prominent cultural venue in Goa, has been temporarily closed due to essential roof repairs. The closure, which started in mid-May, was expected to be a brief disruption but has been delayed due to unforeseen monsoon rains. Rajendra Talak, Chairman of Ravindra Bhavan, confirmed that the venue will likely reopen by May 30, once the repairs are completed. The unexpected rains hindered progress, and the work was paused for safety reasons, as the building’s structural integrity had to be prioritized.
The roof repairs at the Pai Tiatrist Auditorium are necessary to maintain the building’s safety and functionality. Talak explained that the ongoing monsoon season led to delays, as the repair work could not be completed under rainy conditions. As a result, the auditorium has been closed for nearly two weeks. The repairs, while essential for the long-term upkeep of the venue, have unfortunately disrupted scheduled events, leaving the venue unusable for the time being. The government has ensured that the work will be completed as soon as possible, with a targeted reopening date of May 30, 2025.
As a result of the closure, all scheduled performances and events at the Pai Tiatrist Auditorium have been either cancelled or postponed. This includes a range of cultural activities, theatrical performances, and film screenings that were expected to take place in May. Talak assured that efforts are already underway to reschedule these events. The Ravindra Bhavan team is coordinating with performers and event organizers to ensure that all postponed shows will be rescheduled for later dates, and audience members will be informed promptly.
In a positive turn of events, the Shyam Benegal Film Festival, which was initially scheduled during the closure, will now mark the reopening of the auditorium. The festival, an important cultural milestone for Goa, will be inaugurated on May 30, 2025, by Jnanpith awardee Damodar Mauzo. The film festival will celebrate the works of renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal and is expected to draw cinema lovers from across the state. Despite the temporary setback, the inaugural event is set to bring the auditorium back to life, creating a buzz in the local cultural scene.
In addition to the roof repairs, Rajendra Talak revealed plans for major upgrades to the auditorium, which will take place in July and August 2025. These renovations are part of a broader effort to enhance the venue in preparation for the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will be held later in 2025. The upgrades will include improvements to the sound system, projector, and screen, ensuring that the auditorium can host large-scale cultural events and international festivals with the highest technical standards. These upgrades are expected to enhance the overall experience for both performers and audiences.
While the roof repairs have caused some disruption in the short term, the planned renovations and upgrades signal a promising future for the Pai Tiatrist Auditorium. The venue, known for hosting a wide array of cultural events, will continue to play a central role in Goa’s vibrant cultural landscape. Once the repairs and upgrades are completed, the auditorium will be fully equipped to host a variety of cultural and cinematic events, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of Goa’s rich artistic heritage.
The Pai Tiatrist Auditorium’s temporary closure for roof repairs may have caused some inconvenience, but the measures being taken to ensure its long-term functionality and modernization are clear. The venue is set to reopen on May 30 with the exciting Shyam Benegal Film Festival, signaling the start of a new chapter. With upcoming upgrades planned for later in the year, the auditorium will continue to be a vital cultural hub in Goa, attracting both local and international talent for years to come.
Panaji, May 29, 2025 – In a move aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine life and preserving the state’s rich aquatic biodiversity, the Goa Government has officially announced the annual fishing ban which will come into effect from June 1 to July 31. This ban will apply to the entire coastline and territorial waters of the state. This important two-month period is vital for marine life as it ensures the replenishment of fish stocks and promotes healthy breeding.
The two-month fishing ban is part of Goa’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect its marine ecosystem. During this time, fishing activities are restricted to provide a safe environment for marine species to breed and replenish. The period aligns with the peak spawning season for many fish species, making it an essential conservation strategy for the long-term sustainability of fish stocks. By allowing marine life to reproduce without disturbances, the ban ensures that the state’s fishing industry remains viable for years to come.
This fishing ban applies specifically to mechanized and motorized fishing vessels, which are typically used in large-scale, commercial fishing operations. These vessels often take a significant amount of fish from the ocean, affecting the overall marine population.
However, traditional fishing methods using non-motorized boats are still permitted under specific conditions. The Fisheries Department has issued guidelines allowing local fishermen using non-mechanized boats to continue fishing in some areas. These methods are considered sustainable and have a lower impact on the environment compared to industrial-scale fishing. Local fishermen are encouraged to follow these guidelines closely to avoid any violations.
To ensure compliance with the ban, the Goa Government has deployed enforcement teams to patrol the coastline and monitor fishing activities. These teams will be responsible for ensuring that no mechanized vessels engage in fishing operations during the restricted period. Traditional fishing using non-motorized boats will also be closely monitored to ensure that it aligns with the stipulated guidelines.
Those found violating the fishing ban will face penalties as outlined in Goa’s marine conservation laws. The government has made it clear that violators will be held accountable, and strict action will be taken to prevent illegal fishing activities.
Recognizing the impact that the fishing ban may have on the livelihoods of local fishermen, the Goa Government has assured that support measures are being developed to assist those affected by the two-month restriction. This may include relief packages, financial aid, and food support for fishermen and their families. Additionally, the government is exploring ways to provide alternative income opportunities to fishermen during the ban period, ensuring that their needs are met while also promoting sustainable practices.
The fishing ban is not just a regulatory measure but a collective effort to protect Goa’s marine environment. The Goa Government has called upon all stakeholders—including fishermen, environmentalists, and local communities—to work together for the greater good of the state’s ecosystem. The success of this initiative depends on the cooperation of all involved parties to maintain a balance between preserving marine life and supporting the livelihood of fishermen.
Local communities, particularly those directly involved in the fishing industry, are encouraged to follow the rules, collaborate with enforcement teams, and help spread awareness about the importance of this ban. In doing so, everyone contributes to maintaining Goa’s healthy marine environment and sustainable fishing practices.
While the fishing ban may present short-term challenges for local fishermen, it is essential for the long-term health of the state’s marine resources. Sustainable fishing practices are critical to maintaining the economic viability of the fishing industry, which plays an important role in Goa’s economy and culture. The Goa Government is committed to ensuring that the state’s marine environment remains resilient and that the fishing industry continues to thrive for future generations.
The annual fishing ban from June 1 to July 31 is a necessary step toward protecting Goa’s rich marine biodiversity. The Goa Government has urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the ban and ensure that the guidelines are followed for the benefit of the state’s marine resources. By doing so, Goa can continue to safeguard its marine life and the livelihoods of the people who depend on it for years to come.
