Tag: Panaji

Social

Goa CM Inaugurates “Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman” to Reimagine and Restore the State’s Lakes

Tanisha Cardozo

The Government of Goa has launched a major initiative to restore and reimagine the state’s precious water bodies through “Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman.” The Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, inaugurated a dedicated brainstorming session for this mission at the Panaji Gymkhana, Campal. Organized by the Department of Environment & Climate Change, the event marks a pivotal step toward sustainable water management in the region.

Bringing together leading experts, the session featured insights from Dr. Sharad P. Kale, Ex-Scientist at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), renowned for his contributions to environmental science and waste management. The session also saw participation from Shri Arun Kumar Mishra, IAS, Secretary (Environment); Dr. Levinson Martins, IAS, Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board; Dr. Geeta Nagvenkar, Member Secretary, GSPCB; Shri Dyaneshwar Salekar, Chief Engineer at the Water Resources Department; and Shri Sachin Desai, Director of the Department of Environment & Climate Change.

The brainstorming session focused on practical frameworks and scientific approaches to rejuvenate lakes across the state, with the aim to promote ecological balance, sustainable development, and climate resilience. The presence of top environmental officials and scientists signals the government’s strong commitment to preserving Goa’s natural water heritage. The initiative also reflects broader climate adaptation goals and aligns with both local and national sustainability objectives.

“Mission Sarovar Punha Nirman” is expected to not only breathe new life into Goa’s neglected lakes but also act as a model for community-led, science-backed restoration efforts across India. The Government of Goa continues to take proactive steps in ensuring a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Social

JCI Panaji Launches “One LO Sustainable Project” with CCP and Goa Forest Department

Tanisha Cardozo

JCI Panaji has made a significant contribution to environmental conservation and sustainability by launching the “One LO Sustainable Project” in collaboration with the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and the Goa Forest Department . This community-driven initiative focused on planting several medicinal saplings across strategic locations in Panaji, with the goal of enhancing biodiversity, promoting ecological balance, and reviving traditional healing practices through the cultivation of native medicinal plants.

The project was formally inaugurated in Panaji in the presence of several dignitaries, including Mayor Rohit Monserrate, who graced the event as Chief Guest. Applauding the efforts of JCI Panaji, the Mayor highlighted how such grassroots projects are essential for the sustainable growth of the city and encouraged other youth-led organizations to join the movement for a greener Panaji.

Also attending the launch were Deu Tukaram Khavnekar (Forest Guard), Amit Rajaram Kalangutkar (Forest Guard), Gautam Kharangate (CEO, Rashtra TV), and JCI Panaji President Sandeep Kerkar, alongside a passionate group of JCI Panaji members who were instrumental in bringing the project to life.

Speaking at the event, Sandeep Kerkar emphasized the dual benefits of planting medicinal species – supporting both the environment and preserving indigenous knowledge systems related to natural healing. “Through this initiative, we aim to inspire citizens to create green spaces in their homes and neighborhoods,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with a pledge by JCI Panaji to nurture the saplings and expand the project in the coming months. The initiative aligns with the global JCI mission and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

This is a proud moment for Panaji, as civic bodies and citizen groups come together to protect and nurture the natural environment for future generations.

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.

Social

Goa Animal Federation Demands Immediate Mass Sterilization of Community Dogs Following Supreme Court Relief

Tanisha Cardozo

On a warm Sunday afternoon at Azad Maidan, Panaji, a large crowd of dog lovers, activists, and concerned citizens gathered under the banner of the Goa Animal Federation (GAF) in a unified show of support for humane community dog management. The event, which served both as a protest and a thanksgiving to the Supreme Court of India, was attended by several hundred animal lovers, all echoing one central demand: mass sterilization and vaccination of community dogs must begin immediately across Goa.

Prominent voices in Goa’s animal welfare movement—including Advocate Norma Alvarez, singer Hema Sardesai, K.D. Row, Prakash Kamat, Dexter Braganza, and Fidoli Pereira—were present, alongside GAF members and NGO representatives. They extended heartfelt gratitude to the Supreme Court for its recent revised order, which offers a humane, scientific, and sustainable framework to address the stray dog issue across India.

According to GAF, Goa currently has a sterilization capacity of 15,000 dogs per year, a number maintained largely by private NGOs. However, to effectively manage the stray dog population, Goa must reach a target of 50,000 dogs sterilized annually. Only then can the state hope to reach an 80–90% sterilization rate within the next three years, which would naturally reduce the population over the next 5–6 years due to the dogs’ life cycle.

“This is a public safety, animal welfare, and community health issue. Without aggressive government intervention, we’re delaying the solution,” said a GAF spokesperson.

Beyond sterilization, the GAF has also called on the government to:

  • Install at least two animal body incinerators in Goa for safe and hygienic disposal
  • Fulfill its long-standing promise of a 24×7 ambulance and veterinary clinic for stray animals

These facilities, they argue, are essential for upholding humane standards while addressing public health concerns and ensuring dignity for animals—even in death.

The Goa Animal Federation, which includes major animal welfare organizations across the state, reiterated its commitment to a lawful, scientific, and compassionate approach in line with the Supreme Court’s directives.

Their goal is clear: ensure Goa sets an example for the rest of the country in resolving the stray dog issue not through violence or fear, but through compassion, planning, and responsibility.

“Dog lovers aren’t just emotional people—they are citizens fighting for a sustainable, safe, and humane solution,” the press release concluded.

Business

Sayaji Hotels Debuts in Goa with the Launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, Goa | August 21, 2025: In a strategic move that aligns with Goa’s evolving landscape as both a leisure and business destination, Sayaji Hotels has officially launched Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji, marking its first footprint in Goa’s capital.

Strategically positioned on Dr. Atmaram Borkar Road, Effotel Panaji boasts prime access to major transit points including Dabolim Airport (27 km), Mopa Airport (34 km), and Karmali Railway Station (13 km), making it a convenient base for business travelers and tourists alike.

This boutique business hotel features 48 elegantly appointed rooms in Deluxe, Superior, and Premium categories. The rooms are tailored to meet the needs of modern travelers, offering smart amenities and stylish design that reflects Sayaji’s signature commitment to comfort and functionality.

At the heart of the property is The Cube, an all-day dining restaurant offering a refined mix of international cuisine and local Goan delicacies. Adjacent to the restaurant, the vibrant in-house bar creates a social epicenter for guests and locals.

The hotel also offers a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the city, and a tranquil spa that provides a relaxing escape from Panaji’s urban bustle.

“With Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji; we are delighted to bring the Sayaji brand ethos of thoughtful hospitality, modern design, and curated experiences to Goa,” said Sumera Dhanani, Corporate Business Development Head. “This property reflects our vision of creating destinations that resonate equally with business and leisure travelers.”

“Goa has always been seen as a leisure market, but with Panaji’s growing prominence as a business hub, Effotel Panaji brings the best of both worlds to our guests,” said Sarfraz Sheikh, Director, Anwar Hassan Group.

“As our first hotel in Panaji, this launch represents both a strategic expansion and a heartfelt commitment to elevating the hospitality experience in the state,” added Rajendra Joshi, Director of Operations, Sayaji Group.

Whether you’re a corporate traveler looking for efficiency or a leisure seeker wanting to experience Goa’s charm from its vibrant capital, Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji promises a stay that is as seamless as it is memorable.