Business

Dr. Sagar Salgaocar Takes Charge as Chairman of ASSOCHAM Goa, Driving Vision for Viksit Goa 2037


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s business community has welcomed new leadership at the helm of the ASSOCHAM Goa State Council, as Dr. Sagar Salgaocar, Managing Director of Geno Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., takes charge as Chairman. Joining him as Co-Chairman is Shri Mangirish Salelkar, CEO of Umang Software Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Their appointment comes under the national leadership of Shri Nirmal Minda, Executive Chairman of UNO Minda Group and the newly elected President of ASSOCHAM India.

As the former Co-Chairman of the State Council, Dr. Sagar Salgaocar has played a key role in fostering strategic partnerships between industry, government, and civil society. His leadership has significantly contributed to Goa’s socio-economic progress by building platforms for dialogue and collaboration between diverse sectors.

Speaking about his new role, Dr. Salgaocar said, “In addition to our ongoing initiatives, we will focus on new growth areas such as education, tourism, sustainability, environment, start-ups, and MSME acceleration. The goal is to enhance the ease of doing business and promote ‘Make in India’ across Goa while collaborating with trade bodies to create employment and business opportunities.”

Co-Chairman Shri Mangirish Salelkar expressed a forward-looking vision focused on innovation and inclusivity. “Our goal is to make Goa a hub where technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship work hand in hand. Fostering innovation and bridging the industry-government and industry-academia gaps are essential to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Goa 2037,” he shared.

The new leadership marks a significant step toward aligning Goa’s industrial growth with national development priorities, creating a stronger ecosystem for businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators. With a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and the empowerment of MSMEs, ASSOCHAM Goa’s renewed leadership is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the State’s economic and innovation-driven future.

Goan Personalities

LoP Yuri Alemao Pens Heartfelt Birthday Tributeto His Father: “A Legend Who Leads by Example”


Written By Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s Leader of Opposition, Yuri Alemao, marked his father’s birthday with a deeply heartfelt note that reflected gratitude, admiration, and love. Taking to social media on November 8, Alemao penned an emotional tribute, celebrating his father not just for his years but for the values and strength he continues to embody.

“Happy Birthday to the man who leads by example — the one who taught me the value of hard work, the strength of silence, and the value of planning and executing,” Yuri wrote, encapsulating his father’s enduring influence on both his personal and professional life.

He added, “On the 8th of November, we celebrate more than your age — today we celebrate your wisdom, your vision, and the irreplaceable role in our lives. Happy Birthday to a legend, who I am lucky to call Dad.”

The note resonated with warmth and sincerity, offering a glimpse into the close bond the Leader of Opposition shares with his father. It also highlighted the principles that have guided his journey — hard work, discipline, and thoughtful leadership — values that he credits to his father’s example.

Yuri Alemao’s message struck a chord with well-wishers across the state, who responded with heartfelt greetings and appreciation for the touching tribute. On a day dedicated to celebration, his words served as a reminder that behind every leader stands a teacher, a mentor, and a parent whose quiet wisdom continues to shape the path ahead.

Business

S. Sankarasubramanian of Coromandel International Elected Chairman of FAI


The Board of Directors of the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI), in its meeting held on October 31, 2025, has elected Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director and CEO of Coromandel International Limited, as the Chairman of FAI.

Dr. Siba Prasad Mohanty, Managing Director of Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd., who was earlier one of the two Co-Chairmen, will now serve as the sole Co-Chairman of the Association.

Mr. Sankarasubramanian, previously Co-Chairman of the FAI Board and Chairman of FAI’s Southern Region, brings with him more than 30 years of deep industry experience, especially in the Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertiliser segments. His leadership is expected to further strengthen FAI’s strategic role in supporting India’s agricultural ecosystem.

In his remarks, Mr. Sankarasubramanian reaffirmed FAI’s commitment to “driving innovation and sustainability through resource efficiency and balanced nutrition, while working closely with policymakers to achieve Atmanirbharta in the fertiliser sector.” He emphasized that the industry would continue aligning its goals with national agricultural priorities to foster growth, resilience, and long-term food security.

The FAI also extended its appreciation to Mr. Sailesh C. Mehta, the outgoing Chairman, acknowledging his leadership and valuable contributions to the sector.

Established in 1955, the Fertiliser Association of India serves as the apex representative body for the fertiliser industry, encompassing manufacturers, importers, distributors, equipment suppliers, and research institutions across India.

Business

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Reaffirms Commitment to Values, Transparency & Responsibility


Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s largest jewelry retailers, has reaffirmed its dedication to ethical conduct, cultural sensitivity, and transparency in an internal message to its 27,500 employees.

In an email seen by this publication, the company expressed immense pride in being rooted in India’s cultural heritage and guided by its core values of integrity, trust, and respect. “Our foundation of trust is built on values and strengthened by responsibility,” the company stated, adding that these principles define its identity and guide every decision.

The message came amid recent online discussions concerning a past marketing engagement that had generated strong public reactions. “Certain online narratives have circulated incomplete or misleading interpretations about the intent and context of a past marketing engagement, leading to impressions that do not reflect our true ethos or the principles that guide us,” the company clarified.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds also noted that upon learning of the issue, it acted immediately to discontinue the association and terminate the vendor relationship responsible for the campaign. “As an Indian brand, we consider it our moral duty to act with sensitivity, transparency, and respect,” the statement read.

This follows the Bombay High Court’s decision to grant ad-interim relief to Malabar Gold & Diamonds, directing the deletion of all defamatory social media posts, materials, and stories that made false claims against the company.

Reaffirming its identity as a brand that celebrates India’s craftsmanship and diversity, Malabar said, “Being Indian is reflected not only in our products and presence but in our mindset and moral compass. Our decisions are guided by principles, never by prejudice, and we deeply respect the varied perspectives expressed by our stakeholders.”

The company reiterated that it will continue to communicate with clarity and act responsibly. “We reaffirm our commitment to accountability, cultural sensitivity, and maintaining public trust. Malabar Gold & Diamonds will continue to uphold the values that have defined our brand since its inception.”

Established in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds operates over 410 showrooms across 14 countries and employs more than 27,500 people globally. With a turnover of US$7.36 billion in FY 2024–25, it stands among the world’s top five jewelry retailers. The company’s continued growth is underpinned by its unwavering dedication to ethical practices, transparency, and social responsibility — values that remain at the heart of its success.

Social

JCI Ponda Unveils Second Edition of START Magazine in the Presence of Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant


It was a proud moment for JCI Ponda as the organization inaugurated the second edition of its flagship magazine START – Stories That Amplify Real Transformation on 2nd November 2025. The event took place in the presence of Hon. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who unveiled the new edition, commending the efforts of JCI Ponda for its continued contribution to community development and leadership building in Goa.

The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests including JFD Shaba Gauns (Zone President), JFD Chetan Salelkar (Zone Director – Business), JFM Vadiraj Inamdar (LO President), JFM Muskan Naik (Secretary), JC Akash Mangueshkar (Immediate Past President), JC HGF Janhavi Naik (Past President), and JC HGF Amey Tilve (Member), all of whom contributed to making the occasion memorable.

The START magazine, known for showcasing stories of leadership, innovation, and transformation, encapsulates the impactful initiatives undertaken by JCI Ponda throughout 2025. From community-driven projects to youth leadership programs, the publication serves as a reflection of the organization’s mission to inspire positive change.

Speaking on the occasion, members expressed gratitude to JFD Chetan Salelkar for his valuable guidance and contribution in making this edition and launch event a grand success.

The ceremony was marked by a spirit of pride and unity, highlighting JCI Ponda’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young leaders and fostering meaningful change within the community.

With its second edition of START, JCI Ponda continues to amplify stories that drive transformation — reaffirming its position as a beacon of leadership, service, and progress in Goa.