Tag: Pramod Sawant

Business

NETZSCH Marks 20 Years in India with New Goa Manufacturing Facility

Tanisha Cardozo

Marking a significant milestone in its India journey, NETZSCH Pumps & Systems India has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Verna Industrial Estate in Goa, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to the country’s ‘Make in India’ vision. The inauguration ceremony was led by Pramod Sawant, Honorable Chief Minister of Goa, in the presence of Mauvin Godinho, Minister for Industries, along with senior officials from Goa Industrial Development Corporation and VDMA, members of the company’s global leadership, and distinguished guests.

Spread across approximately 45,000 square meters, the facility features a production floor of 12,500 square meters and is equipped with advanced manufacturing infrastructure, modern assembly lines, and enhanced testing capabilities. Designed to support higher production volumes and improve operational efficiency, the new unit represents a major leap in the company’s manufacturing capabilities in India.

A strong emphasis has been placed on sustainability, with the facility incorporating a 400 kW rooftop solar installation and being designed to meet IGBC Gold Standard certification requirements. This eco-conscious approach reflects NETZSCH’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while promoting energy-efficient and responsible manufacturing practices.

The investment is expected to significantly boost production capacity while also generating new employment opportunities in Goa. It further strengthens the state’s position as an emerging industrial hub and contributes to the development of a robust local manufacturing ecosystem. The collaboration between the company’s German headquarters and its Indian operations continues to drive technology exchange, engineering excellence, and innovation.

Having established its presence in India in 2005 in Chennai and expanded to Goa in 2010, NETZSCH has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable pumping and system solutions across industries. With the inauguration of this new facility, the company not only celebrates two decades of growth in India but also reaffirms its long-term commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and meaningful contributions to the communities it serves.

Goan Personalities

Massive Turnout Marks Birthday Celebrations of MLA Rohan Khaunte in Porvorim

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim: A remarkable show of public support marked the birthday celebrations of Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, as thousands gathered at the GCA Ground in Porvorim on February 26, 2026. The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of well-wishers, party karyakartas, and citizens, reflecting the Minister’s strong connection with the people.

Long queues were seen from early evening, with supporters patiently waiting to greet the Minister and extend their wishes. The atmosphere remained vibrant and festive, filled with enthusiasm, music, and community participation.

The celebration was attended by several prominent leaders, including Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, BJP State President Damodar Naik, Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza, MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, and multiple MLAs and senior government officials.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sawant praised Khaunte’s leadership, particularly in strengthening Goa’s tourism sector. He highlighted the steady rise in tourist footfall and the implementation of forward-looking initiatives that align tourism growth with infrastructure development. He also acknowledged the Minister’s contributions to the IT sector, noting increased opportunities for youth and Goa’s positioning as a hub for innovation.

State BJP President Damodar Naik described Khaunte as a dynamic and dedicated leader committed to public welfare.

Expressing gratitude, Khaunte said he was deeply humbled by the overwhelming support and blessings. He thanked the Chief Minister, party leadership, MLAs, workers, and citizens, stating that their encouragement motivates him to continue working towards Goa’s development with greater commitment.

A cake-cutting ceremony was held in the presence of senior leaders, followed by a lively musical evening by Harmony Band. Mimicry artiste D. Satish entertained the audience with performances imitating national leaders, drawing loud applause.

Earlier in the day, a voluntary blood donation camp was organised at the Minister’s office, adding a meaningful dimension of service to the celebrations.

The large turnout at Porvorim stood as a testament to the Minister’s popularity and the trust reposed in his leadership, turning the occasion into a celebration of both governance and grassroots connection.

Events in Goa

Goa to Host Grand Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Event at Bambolim Stadium on February 27

Swara Bodke

Written by Intern Swara Bodke || Team Allycaral

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, will organise a grand public event under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Bambolim, Goa, on 27th February 2026 at 9 AM.
A large number of citizens, especially youth, are expected to participate in this landmark event. More than 3,000 people are anticipated to join physically, making it one of the largest mobilisations under the campaign in the state of Goa.
The event will be graced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Virendra Kumar, along with other senior officials.
Key Highlights of the Event:
Massive youth rally against drug abuse
Administration of a mass oath (pledge) against drugs, both online and offline
Cultural programmes and performances
Felicitation of active participants and partners
Sharing achievements and success stories of the Abhiyaan
Participation is expected from school and college students, youth, parents, Self Help Groups (SHGs), volunteers, department officials, representatives of spiritual organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), police personnel, civil society groups, and citizens.
Background of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
Launched on 15th August 2020 by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, the Abhiyaan was initially rolled out in 272 most vulnerable districts and has now been expanded to all districts across the country. The campaign focuses on mass awareness generation, with special emphasis on higher educational institutions, university campuses, schools, and community-level outreach.
Major Achievements (as on date):
More than 25.93+ crore people sensitized on substance use issues
Over 9.35+ crore youth reached
More than 6.38+ crore women sensitized
Participation of over 16.15+ lakh educational institutions, ensuring wide coverage among children and youth
Strategic Partnerships
To strengthen mass awareness efforts, the Department has signed MoUs with eight prominent spiritual organisations, including the The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and University of Patanjali.
Digital Outreach
The Abhiyaan maintains active official social media handles on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, along with a dedicated NMBA website providing comprehensive information, dashboards, an e-pledge facility, discussion forums, and resources.
Recent Landmark Events
The 5th Anniversary Celebration was held on 13 August 2025 in Delhi in collaboration with the Government of NCT of Delhi, with over 1,000 students participating physically and lakhs joining nationwide.
A Grand National Event was organised on 18 November 2025 at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, where more than 10,000 people participated physically and over 6.3 crore people joined across the country through 2.10 lakh+ locations.
The upcoming Goa event aims to highlight the progress and achievements of the Abhiyaan, mobilise large-scale community participation, inspire and motivate citizens—especially the youth—to reject substance use, and reinforce the collective resolve towards building a Nasha Mukt Bharat.
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Government of Goa invite all citizens, particularly the youth, to actively participate in this significant movement towards a drug-free society.

Social

Pentair Contributes ₹2.18 Crore to Goa CSR Authority in Boost to Social Development

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant boost to Goa’s social development initiatives, Hon’ble Chief Minister Pramod Sawant presided over the presentation of a cheque worth ₹2.18 crore by Pentair Water India Private Limited to the Goa CSR Authority at Mantralaya, Porvorim.

The contribution marks a strong step forward in reinforcing collaboration between responsible corporate entities and the Government of Goa. It highlights the growing importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive development in the state.

This funding is set to support priority sectors such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth. By focusing on these key areas, the initiative aims to ensure that the benefits of development reach every section of society, especially those at the grassroots level.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister appreciated the continued commitment of Pentair Water India Pvt. Ltd. towards Goa’s progress. He acknowledged the company’s proactive role in supporting initiatives that align with the state’s vision for holistic and people-centric development.

The Chief Minister also extended his gratitude to Shri Raghunath Mane, Managing Director; Mrs. Jennifer Hensley, Senior Vice President (USA); and other representatives of the company for their valuable contribution and ongoing support.

The event serves as a reminder of the critical role that partnerships between government and industry play in shaping a sustainable future. As Goa continues to focus on balanced growth, such collaborations are expected to drive impactful change, ensuring improved quality of life and long-term development for its people.

With increasing participation from corporates in CSR initiatives, Goa is steadily strengthening its framework for inclusive progress—where economic growth goes hand in hand with social responsibility.

Events in Goa

Goa Tourism to Mark Shiv Jayanti with ‘Shiv Garjana’ Mega Production and Drone Show

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa is set to present a grand and immersive celebration of Shiv Jayanti, honouring the life, leadership and enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the occasion of the 352nd anniversary of his historic coronation. Blending tradition with theatrical excellence and modern innovation, the commemorative programme aims to offer a vibrant cultural experience for the people of Goa.

The celebrations will commence on February 19, 2026 at 9:30 AM at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk near IHM, Porvorim, Bardez, with a ceremonial garlanding of the statue followed by a traditional Dhol Tasha presentation. The programme will be held in the presence of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte.

As the highlight of the commemorative events, the Department will stage a mega theatrical production titled Shiv Garjana on February 21, 2026 from 6:00 PM onwards at Shree Bodgeshwar Ground, Mapusa. The large-scale production will feature over 150 artists performing on a specially designed revolving stage, portraying the visionary leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his historic association with Gomantak.

Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte stated that Shiv Jayanti represents courage, foresight and exemplary governance. Through Shiv Garjana, the Department seeks to create a meaningful historical experience that connects especially the younger generation with the inspiring journey of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, while strengthening cultural tourism in Goa.

Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said the programme has been carefully curated to combine historical reverence with contemporary presentation. From the ceremonial tribute in Porvorim to the mega theatrical performance and drone show in Mapusa, the Department aims to offer an enriching experience for citizens and visitors alike.

The evening of February 21 will culminate in a special drone show illuminating the Goan skyline, symbolising the fusion of heritage and innovation. The event is open to the public and entry is free. The Department of Tourism has invited citizens to attend in large numbers and be part of this grand tribute to one of India’s most revered icons.