Tag: Pramod Sawant

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.

Sports

Ponda Sports Complex Renamed as Ravi Naik Sports Complex in Presence of CM Pramod Sawant

Tanisha Cardozo

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant attended the naming ceremony of the Ponda Sports Complex as the Ravi Naik Sports Complex at Ponda, marking a significant occasion for the region’s sporting infrastructure. The event was held in the presence of Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, Commissioner for NRI Affairs Adv. Narendra Sawaikar, Chairman of the Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir, Ponda, Ritesh Ravi Naik, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Dr. Ajay Gaude, and other dignitaries.

The renaming of the sports complex reflects recognition of contributions made toward the development of sports and community engagement in the region. The ceremony brought together government officials, sports administrators, and members of the local community, highlighting the importance of strengthening sports infrastructure in Goa.

The Ravi Naik Sports Complex serves as a key venue for sporting activities and youth engagement in Ponda. With continued investment in infrastructure and policy support from the state government, Goa aims to nurture talent and encourage greater participation in sports at grassroots and competitive levels.

The presence of senior officials at the ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to promoting sports as a vital component of youth development and community building. The renaming ceremony marks another step in enhancing facilities and recognizing individuals who have contributed to the growth of sports in the state.

Events in Goa

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant Inaugurates First-Ever Goa Book Festival 2026 in Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

In a landmark moment for Goa’s cultural calendar, the first-ever Goa Book Festival 2026 was inaugurated on February 4 at the D.B. Bandodkar Ground in Panaji by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant, marking the beginning of a five-day celebration dedicated to books, ideas, art and dialogue. The inaugural ceremony brought together eminent dignitaries including Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairman of the National Book Trust, India, Dr Kiran Thakur, Chief Patron of the Goa Book Festival and Chairman of Lokmanya Cultural Foundation, Shri Prasad Lolayekar, IAS, Secretary (Education), Government of Goa, Shri Rajesh Pandey, Trustee, NBT and Chief Convenor of the Pune Book Fair, and Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, India.

Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister visited the book stalls and explored the festival’s special exhibitions, including “Goa: Stories of Light and Delight,” along with exhibitions commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram and the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He also spent time at the Authors’ Corner and the Children’s Pavilion, interacting with participants and appreciating the diverse range of literary, educational and creative activities curated as part of the festival. The ceremony also featured the unveiling of a special video presentation capturing the spirit of the Goa Book Festival and showcasing the cultural and natural beauty of the state.

Expressing his happiness at the launch of the festival, Dr Pramod Sawant lauded the National Book Trust, India for bringing the initiative to Goa and encouraged citizens to support the Goa Book Festival with the same enthusiasm as other popular festivals in the state. He highlighted that the festival goes beyond book sales by offering cultural performances and child-centric activities, and urged NBT to make the festival an annual fixture in Goa’s cultural calendar.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe reflected on the enduring value of books, quoting author George R. R. Martin to emphasise how reading enriches lives. He noted that books act as silent companions offering guidance and emotional support, and said that if visitors could find answers to why to read, what to read and how to read, the festival would have fulfilled its purpose. He further stressed that the vision of a Viksit Bharat rests on informed and thoughtful citizens, making the cultivation of readers an essential foundation.

Dr Kiran Thakur described the Goa Book Festival as an initiative that would give the state a distinct literary identity, noting the participation of over 200 publishers offering books in English, Hindi, Marathi and Konkani. He spoke of India’s rich intellectual heritage and expressed confidence that the festival would grow into a major hub of literary dialogue, reflecting Goa’s pluralistic and inclusive cultural ethos.

Shri Yuvraj Malik, delivering the vote of thanks, remarked that the Goa Book Festival filled a long-standing gap in the state’s cultural landscape. He encouraged visitors to take home at least one book that could inspire or influence their lives, underscoring the transformative power of reading.

The festival opened with vibrant children’s activities including puppet-based storytelling, cartooning workshops inspired by Mario de Miranda, drawing sessions and poster-making activities. The first day concluded with a graceful Ganesh Vandana, a Kathak performance by Laheja – The School of Performing Arts, and a lively musical performance by the 24K India Band, creating a celebratory close to Day One.

Organised by the National Book Trust, India under the Ministry of Education, in association with the Government of Goa, Samarth Yuva Foundation and Lokmanya Cultural Foundation, the Goa Book Festival 2026 features over 250 book stalls by more than 100 publishers, special exhibitions, cultural performances and interactive sessions for readers of all ages. With free entry, a 10% discount on all books, and daily timings from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM from February 4 to 8, the festival sets the foundation for a lasting cultural tradition that celebrates books as bridges connecting ideas, generations and imaginations.