Tag: Language in Administration

Events in Goa

Konkani Language Training Gains Momentum Among Government Staff in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

The Directorate of Official Language, Goa, inaugurated the sixth batch of its Official Language in Administration training program today in Margao. A total of 26 government employees from various departments are participating in the four-day training, which is designed to improve the use of Konkani—the state’s official language—in administrative work.

The training focuses on core areas such as basic Konkani grammar, official correspondence, administrative vocabulary, noting in Konkani, and practical conversation for day-to-day functioning in government offices. Conducted in an immersive, classroom-style format, the program is part of the government’s larger effort to integrate the use of Konkani in formal communication and governance.

Speaking at the event, Salcete Mamlatdar Gaurav Gaonkar emphasized the importance of language in identity and public service. “We learn regional languages in school but rarely use our mother language or official language when working in government. Government employees will benefit from Konkani training,” he said.

The initiative has seen consistent participation, reflecting growing awareness and willingness among government employees to adopt Konkani in their professional roles. With the sixth batch underway, the Directorate has also announced that the seventh and eighth batches of training will begin shortly. The seventh batch will commence on 16th September and the eighth batch on 22nd September. Both sessions will be held at the Language Research Centre, Directorate of Official Language, located on the 5th floor of Junta House in Panaji. Each session will run from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

This program is a significant step toward the normalization of Konkani in government administration, aligning policy with cultural and linguistic identity. The Directorate aims to empower public servants with the tools and confidence to use Konkani effectively in their official capacities, enhancing inclusivity and accessibility in governance.

EduConnect

Official Language Training Begins in Goa to Promote Konkani in Administration

Tanisha Cardozo

The Directorate of Official Languages, Government of Goa, has commenced its fourth batch of Official Language Training aimed at encouraging the use of Konkani in government administration. The inaugural session was held on 8 September 2025 at EDC, Panaji, and will run until 11 September. The training was inaugurated by Dr. Veena Kumar, Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, who served as the chief guest for the event.

In her address, Dr. Kumar emphasized the importance of one’s mother tongue and called upon government officials to not only understand its value but also to actively use it in administrative communication. “Everyone should be proud of their language and make maximum use of the official language in administration,” she stated.

The event was attended by Meghnath Parab, Director of Official Languages, along with Deputy Director and Chief Coordinator of the training, Anil Sawant. A total of 29 government employees are taking part in this particular batch.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Directorate to ensure the widespread and effective use of Konkani in government correspondence and operations. The training modules include instruction on the Konkani Official Language Act, fundamental grammar, and the use of the language in formal communication such as letters, orders, notifications, receipts, and note writing. Additionally, participants are introduced to commonly used administrative terms, departmental titles, and standard replies.

Earlier, three training batches were successfully conducted in August. For September, five more training sessions are planned across Panaji and Madgaon, with each batch accommodating up to 30 participants.

Meanwhile, organizers have announced a change in venue for the session scheduled from 9 to 12 September 2025. Originally set to take place at the District Collector’s Office in Madgaon, the training will now be conducted at the District Library in Naveli, Sasht. Participants have been requested to make a note of this update.

This initiative reflects the Government of Goa’s continued efforts to preserve and promote Konkani as the official language while modernizing administrative processes through language training and awareness.