Tag: Pramod Sawant

Business

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Engages with New Goa Technology Association Leadership

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Focus on Employment Generation and Boosting Entrepreneurship in the State

Panaji, Goa | June 20, 2025 — In a significant step toward advancing Goa’s digital and entrepreneurial ecosystem, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant held a strategic meeting with the newly constituted Managing Committee of the Goa Technology Association (GTA). The agenda: to strengthen collaboration between the state government and the tech industry for job creation, skill development, and fostering local startups.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister congratulated Shri Mangirish Salelkar on being re-elected as President of GTA for an unprecedented third term, acknowledging his continued leadership in shaping Goa’s growing technology landscape.

🤝 Strengthening Government-Industry Collaboration

The discussions focused on several key areas:

  • Creating high-quality employment opportunities for Goan youth
  • Supporting tech startups and small IT enterprises
  • Enhancing industry-academia linkages for better skill alignment
  • Promoting Goa as a tech hub for innovation and entrepreneurship
  • Exploring policy support and infrastructure development

“Goa’s tech ecosystem is growing, and we want to ensure it creates direct opportunities for Goans. The government is fully committed to supporting this vision,” said CM Dr. Pramod Sawant after the meeting.

👨‍💼 Mangirish Salelkar Re-Elected as GTA President

Shri Mangirish Salelkar, Co-founder & CEO of Umang Software Technologies, continues to lead GTA as its President — marking his third consecutive term. Known for his work in building a community of IT entrepreneurs and pushing for industry-friendly policies in Goa, Salelkar’s leadership has been widely appreciated by both peers and policymakers.

“We thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister for his time and commitment. Our new committee looks forward to working closely with the government to empower Goa’s tech sector and create more opportunities for local talent,” said Salelkar.

🧑‍💻 About Goa Technology Association (GTA)

The Goa Technology Association is the leading body representing the IT and tech industry in Goa. Comprising IT companies, startups, and service providers, GTA acts as a bridge between the government and the private sector, advocating for policy changes, talent development, and sustainable tech growth.

Since its inception, GTA has:

  • Promoted Goa-based IT hiring
  • Engaged in dialogues on infrastructure and internet access
  • Supported local startups and innovation-driven enterprises

🌱 Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to:

  • Conduct regular industry-government dialogues
  • Launch joint skill-building initiatives
  • Encourage tech investments and incubation programs
  • Promote Goa as a preferred destination for IT and knowledge industries

As Goa moves to position itself beyond tourism and into knowledge-driven growth, the collaboration between the state government and industry bodies like GTA is expected to be crucial for long-term economic resilience and innovation.

📌 Key Highlights:

  • CM Dr. Pramod Sawant met with GTA’s new committee in Panaji
  • Focus: Employment, startup growth, and entrepreneurship
  • Mangirish Salelkar re-elected as GTA President for the 3rd term
  • Government assured continued policy and infrastructural support
Goan Personalities

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant & Smt. Sulakshana Sawant Mark 20 Years of Togetherness

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In a world that moves fast and changes often, some bonds stand as enduring symbols of commitment, understanding, and grace. One such bond is that of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, and his wife, Smt. Sulakshana Sawant — who today celebrate 20 glorious years of marriage.

As Goa’s leading political couple, their union has not only stood the test of time but has thrived in the midst of public service, responsibility, and dedication to the people. Yet behind the titles and duties lies a story of love, mutual respect, and quiet strength — a story that began two decades ago and continues to inspire many.

🕊️ A Personal Tribute from the Heart

On this special occasion, Smt. Sulakshana Sawant took to Twitter to share a moving tribute to her husband and life partner — a message that reflects the depth of emotion and gratitude she carries in her heart:

“Twenty years ago, two hearts became one, two souls found their mirror, and two lives started walking a single path — hand in hand, side by side.
As I look back on these beautiful years with you, I see not just the love we’ve shared, but the life we’ve built — filled with laughter, dreams, quiet moments, and deep, unshakable trust. You are my strength, my peace, and my forever home.
We may be two people with two minds and two stories, but in every way that matters, we are one soul. One heartbeat. One love that has stood the test of time.
Thank you for being the love of my life, the best part of every day, and the reason I still smile like a young girl in love. Here’s to us — to our memories, our journey, and the years still to come.
Happy 20th Anniversary, I would choose you all over again, in every lifetime.”

This heartfelt message touched thousands online, resonating with those who admire not only the Sawants’ public lives but also the private love that anchors it.

📸 20 Years, 20 Beautiful Memories

To commemorate this occasion, a collage of 20 memorable photographs has been shared — capturing moments both public and private, formal and candid — offering a glimpse into their shared life. From political milestones to family celebrations, each frame is a testament to the journey they’ve walked hand in hand.

These snapshots reflect not just two people, but a partnership that has grown through challenges, embraced change, and celebrated countless triumphs — both big and small.

🌸 More Than a Celebration

Their 20th wedding anniversary is not just a celebration of a personal milestone — it’s a tribute to values that many look up to: devotion, simplicity, humility, and unwavering support.

Whether leading the state or nurturing their home, Dr. Pramod Sawant and Smt. Sulakshana Sawant continue to set an example — of how strong marriages and grounded hearts can make a difference not only in each other’s lives, but also in the lives of many.

As they step into the next chapter of their journey together, their love story remains one of Goa’s most cherished.

💖 Here’s to Many More…

To Dr. Pramod Sawant and Smt. Sulakshana Sawant —
May your bond continue to grow stronger, your hearts remain forever young, and your journey ahead be filled with peace, purpose, and togetherness.

Happy 20th Wedding Anniversary!

Human Interest

Goa Government Mandates Yoga Day Participation for Employees, Launches Statewide Wellness Drive

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Month-Long Yoga Sessions Begin June 1 Across All Government Departments

In a bold and wellness-driven initiative, the Government of Goa has announced that participation in International Yoga Day on June 21 is now mandatory for all employees working in government departments, semi-government bodies, and public sector corporations. The announcement marks a significant shift in policy, as Yoga Day participation was previously optional.

This landmark decision was made following a high-level planning meeting chaired by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who emphasized the importance of integrating wellness practices into the daily routines of public servants to promote healthier lifestyles and improve workplace productivity.

Starting June 1, 2025, all departments under the Government of Goa will hold daily yoga sessions with 100% employee participation expected. These sessions are part of a larger wellness campaign leading up to International Yoga Day on June 21.

Employees unable to attend official sessions must participate at a nearby venue—such as a temple, school, or community center—and are required to submit a photograph of their participation to their respective Heads of Departments for verification.

“It is compulsory for government employees to take part in International Yoga Day activities. If they cannot attend the official sessions, they must participate at a local venue and submit a photo as proof,”
– Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant

In line with the Centre’s Mission Karmayogi, which focuses on transforming public service delivery through capacity building, the Goa government has also urged all employees to register on the iGOT Karmayogi portal. Officials are encouraged to enroll in the ‘Yoga at Workplace’ certificate course, available on the platform, to deepen their understanding of wellness in professional life.

As part of the wider campaign, yoga sessions will also be introduced in all government and higher secondary schools across the state starting June 4, coinciding with the beginning of the new academic year. The Department of Education will ensure that yoga becomes a routine morning activity for students and teachers alike, helping instill wellness habits early in life.

To ensure wide-scale participation, the state will host International Yoga Day celebrations at 30 different venues on June 21. These events will be coordinated by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs in collaboration with local bodies, yoga institutions, and civil society groups.

Chief Minister Dr. Sawant highlighted that this initiative is not merely a symbolic observance but a deliberate step toward building a healthier, more efficient, and stress-resilient workforce. He noted that the mental and physical benefits of yoga translate directly into improved focus, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity in public offices.

“This initiative is not only beneficial for physical health but will also contribute to improved work efficiency,”
– Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa

By mandating participation and embedding yoga into daily routines, Goa has become one of the first states in India to adopt such a comprehensive wellness model within the public sector. The initiative is expected to set a benchmark for other states looking to integrate health and mindfulness practices into their administrative frameworks.

🔗 For More Information:

  • Register for the Yoga at Workplace course: https://igotkarmayogi.gov.in
  • Follow updates from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs
  • Contact your Head of Department for daily session timings and venues