Goan Personalities

Sadanand Shet Tanavde Completes Two Years as Rajya Sabha MP


Sadanand Shet Tanavde, Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, has completed two years of service representing the state of Goa in India’s Upper House. His tenure so far reflects a blend of strong leadership, unwavering commitment to his state, and active participation in legislative and policy discussions at the national level.

Since his nomination, Tanavde has actively participated in parliamentary debates, drawing attention to Goa’s unique challenges and opportunities. From advocating for tourism infrastructure, heritage conservation, and coastal development to raising concerns on mining resumption, employment, and environmental preservation, his efforts have consistently focused on elevating Goa’s voice in Parliament.

Highlights of His Parliamentary Engagement

  • Voiced the need for central support in coastal erosion control
  • Called for sustainable resumption of mining activities in Goa
  • Advocated for employment generation programs for youth in Goa
  • Emphasized heritage tourism and rural infrastructure upgrades

Tanavde Ji’s background as a grassroots leader and his tenure as the Goa BJP President prior to his Rajya Sabha role have shaped his inclusive and development-oriented approach. He continues to maintain close contact with constituents, ensuring their concerns are heard at the national level.

As he enters the third year of his Rajya Sabha tenure, expectations are high for further action on pending development issues, greater collaboration with central ministries, and continued efforts toward sustainable progress in Goa.

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International

Astronomer CEO Resigns After Viral Coldplay Concert Kiss Cam Controversy


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In a swift and highly publicized move, Andy Byron has resigned as CEO of US-based tech company Astronomer after a video from a Coldplay concert in Boston captured him sharing a seemingly intimate moment with the company’s HR head, Kristin Cabot.

The viral clip surfaced from the concert’s Kiss Cam segment, showing Byron and Cabot briefly embracing before hurriedly separating. Their visible discomfort under the camera’s spotlight, including Byron ducking and Cabot turning away, raised eyebrows. Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin even made a cheeky remark, saying the couple was either “too shy or having an affair.”

The fallout was swift. Within 24 hours of being placed on leave, Byron tendered his resignation. Astronomer confirmed the news in a LinkedIn post:

“Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.”

The company also clarified that Alyssa Stoddard, a rumored third party in the video, was not present at the event. They named co-founder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy as interim CEO.

Aside from the professional ramifications, the incident has had personal consequences. Byron’s wife, Megan Kerrigan, who works in school admissions, was quick to remove Byron’s surname from her Facebook profile before deactivating it.

Byron, who was appointed CEO in 2023, has not issued a public statement. However, the company emphasized that the scandal hasn’t affected their core operations or mission in the DataOps sector.

The situation has reignited conversations around workplace ethics, leadership image, and accountability, especially in high-profile corporate environments.

Human Interest

Panaji Mayor Rohit Monserrate Becomes First Indian Mayor to Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro


Panaji | July 2025 – Allycaral Desk

In a record-making achievement that has elevated both state and national pride, Panaji Mayor Rohit Monserrate has become the first Indian mayor to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the world’s most iconic mountaineering challenges known as the Seven Summits.

Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro stands at a staggering 19,341 feet (5,895 metres) above sea level and is famed for testing both physical stamina and mental strength. Mayor Monserrate completed the demanding 7-day expedition, trekking across a variety of terrains — from lush rainforest and alpine desert to glacial summit — before finally standing atop the “Roof of Africa.”

“This climb was more than just a physical goal,” said Mayor Monserrate. “It was a test of resilience and a reminder that no peak is too high if one stays focused and determined. I’m proud to bring this achievement home to Goa and to inspire others to take on their own challenges — whether on the mountains or in life.”

The milestone makes Monserrate the first Indian political leader in office at the municipal level to conquer Kilimanjaro, joining an elite group of international achievers who have completed one of the famed Seven Summits — the highest mountains on each continent.

His feat has drawn admiration not just from Goans across the globe, but also from India’s adventure and fitness communities, which see the climb as an inspiring message on the importance of health, courage, and visionary leadership.

The Government of Goa and Tourism Department are expected to honour the Mayor’s accomplishment in the coming weeks.

Automobiles

Goa Automobile Dealers Association Welcomes New Executive Committee Led by Rajesh Khaunte


The Goa Automobile Dealers Association (GADA) is proud to announce its newly elected Executive Committee, ushering in a fresh chapter of leadership and commitment to the state’s automotive retail industry. At the helm is Mr. Rajesh Khaunte, who takes over as President, bringing with him an impressive 35 years of experience in the auto sector.

The committee was elected unopposed during GADA’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday, 27th June 2025. The unanimous support for the new committee highlights the collective confidence of GADA members in the vision and capability of the incoming team.

Mr. Rajesh Khaunte, a respected name in Goa’s business community, has been a pivotal part of the state’s automobile ecosystem for decades. With his in-depth knowledge of market trends and a strong track record in operations, he aims to address key challenges faced by dealerships while fostering ethical business practices and sustainable growth in the sector.

“I am deeply honoured to be elected as the President of the Goa Automobile Dealers Association,” said Mr. Khaunte. “My focus will be on resolving long-standing issues in the industry, engaging proactively with stakeholders, and promoting professionalism within the dealer network.”

He also expressed his gratitude to outgoing President Mr. Prashant Joshi, commending his leadership and relentless efforts over the last decade. “Mr. Joshi and his team have done a commendable job in advancing the interests of the auto industry in Goa. I sincerely thank them for their humongous efforts and dedication.”

New Executive Committee (2025–2027):

  • President: Mr. Rajesh Khaunte
  • Secretary: Mr. Aniket Kuncolinekar
  • Treasurer: Mr. Suraj Caculo
  • Joint Secretary: Mr. Ashok Sapra

Committee Members:

  • Mr. Matin Naik
  • Mr. Parind Nachinolkar

GADA continues to represent the collective voice of authorized automobile dealers across Goa. The association plays a crucial role in engaging with government departments, OEMs, and financial institutions, while also acting as a platform for collaboration among dealers.

With a fresh leadership team, GADA is set to enhance its role as an advocate for industry progress, fair policies, and transparent business practices.

Goa’s finest jewels 💎

The Multifaceted Life of Pallavi Salgaocar: A Story of Passion, Leadership, and Empowerment


Pallavi Salgaocar is a remarkable individual who has made a significant impact in various fields, from finance to entrepreneurship, and social empowerment. As the Director of Geno Pharma, Founder of Desserts N More Bakery, and President of Laghu Udyog Bharati Goa State Chapter, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a passion for driving positive change.


Pallavi attributes her ability to balance multiple roles to effective time management, a reliable support team, and family support. She believes multitasking comes naturally to most women and emphasizes prioritizing responsibilities. Her journey as a leader has been shaped by her experiences in various roles, including her current positions.


Pallavi’s love for baking led her to start Desserts N More Bakery, which operates through self-operated stores, franchisees, and supermarkets across Goa. Her vision for the bakery is to provide high-quality, hygienically prepared bakery items at affordable prices.


As Laghu Udyog Bharati Goa State President, Pallavi focuses on addressing the challenges faced by MSMEs in Goa, including talent, technology, and finance. Initiatives include ¹:

  • Training Programs: Skill development workshops tailored to small and micro entrepreneurs’ needs
  • Partnerships: Collaborations with World Trade Centre Goa and MSME DFO Goa for workshops and knowledge sharing
  • Industry-Academia Collaboration: MOU with SSA Govt College, Pernem, for boosting industry-academia interactions


As Women Empowerment Chair at Assocham Goa, Pallavi proposes :

  • Digital Empowerment: Workshops on digital literacy and skills for women entrepreneurs
  • Financial Literacy: Awareness programs on government schemes and funding options
  • Health and Hygiene: Initiatives promoting health and hygiene among women entrepreneurs


Pallavi sees a bright future for women’s leadership in Goa’s business landscape, with many women already taking on leadership roles in various associations and self-help groups.


Pallavi advises young entrepreneurs to:

  • Seek Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals can help navigate challenges
  • Join Networking Associations: Platforms for knowledge sharing and connections
  • Be a Lifelong Learner: Stay updated on industry trends and developments
  • Self-Confidence: Believe in oneself and one’s abilities


Pallavi highlights the importance of cooperative banks like Bicholim Urban Co-op Bank in supporting local businesses by providing accessible financial services.


Pallavi’s parting message is to learn to say NO and prioritize self-reflection to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This message resonates with her own journey, where she has learned to prioritize her responsibilities and focus on her passions.

By sharing her story, Pallavi inspires others to pursue their passions, take on leadership roles, and drive positive change in their communities. Her multifaceted life is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and a commitment to empowering others.