Goan Personalities

New Curti-Khandepar Panchayat Ghar to Be Named After Late Former CM Ravi Naik


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The upcoming New Panchayat House Ghar will soon stand as a tribute to one of Goa’s respected leaders, former Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister late Ravi Naik. In recognition of his enduring contributions to the state and his legacy in strengthening agricultural and local governance initiatives, the Panchayat body has unanimously resolved to name the new building in his honour.

Sarpanch Naved Tehsildar shared that the process of land acquisition for the construction of the new Panchayat House Ghar is nearing completion. He expressed gratitude for the cooperation and support extended by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who has assured full assistance in ensuring the timely execution of the project.

“The Panchayat body has taken a resolution to name the new Panchayat House after former Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister late Ravi Naik as a mark of respect for his immense contribution to public service and governance,” said Tehsildar. He added that the foundation stone for the project will soon be laid, marking a significant milestone in local infrastructure development.

This decision has been welcomed by residents and local representatives alike, who view it as a fitting tribute to a leader remembered for his dedication to rural progress, governance reforms, and the betterment of Goa’s agrarian community. The new Panchayat House Ghar is expected to serve as a vital centre for local administration and community activities, carrying forward the values of service and commitment that Ravi Naik embodied throughout his political career.

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Goa’s Agriculture Minister and Former Chief Minister Ravi Naik Passes Away


Goa, Wednesday — The State of Goa is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and veteran leaders, Shri Ravi Sitaram Naik, who passed away on Wednesday. Naik, who was serving as the Minister for Agriculture, was also a two-time Chief Minister of Goa, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in state politics.

Born on September 18, 1946, in Ponda, Ravi Naik began his political journey in the 1970s and quickly rose through the ranks, earning respect across party lines. Known for his grounded leadership and approachable nature, Naik served as Chief Minister of Goa twice — first from 1991 to 1993 and later in 1994 — during critical phases of the State’s political evolution.

As the Agriculture Minister, Naik was a strong advocate for empowering farmers and strengthening Goa’s rural economy. He emphasized sustainable agricultural practices, innovation in farming, and improving irrigation systems to support the agrarian community.

Throughout his career, Ravi Naik represented the Ponda constituency, serving multiple terms as MLA, and remained one of Goa’s most recognizable and influential political figures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating:

“Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ravi Naik Ji, Minister in the Goa Government. He will be remembered as an experienced administrator and dedicated public servant who enriched Goa’s development trajectory. He was particularly passionate about empowering the downtrodden and marginalised. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”

As Goa comes together to mourn the loss, tributes continue to pour in from across the State and beyond for a leader who devoted his life to service, simplicity, and progress.

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International Purple Fest 2025: Ponda to Host Blind & Wheelchair Cricket on Sept 29; Minister Ravi Naik Invited to Inaugurate


Written by Tanisha Cardozo, Team Allycaral

Blind & Wheelchair Cricket to Shine at Purple Fest 2025 in Goa

Goa’s landmark celebration of inclusivity, International Purple Fest 2025, will witness a unique and inspiring sporting event – Blind & Wheelchair Cricket – to be held on 29th September 2025 at the Ponda Sports Complex.

Dr. Ketan Bhatikar, Sports Director of Purple Fest, officially extended an invitation to Minister Ravi Naik, who will inaugurate the match. The event will also see the presence of Rajiv Sahakari, further underscoring the commitment to promoting inclusivity in sports.

Purple Fest has always championed accessibility and empowerment, and this cricket event is no exception. Bringing together differently-abled athletes, the Blind & Wheelchair Cricket matches are a powerful testament to determination, talent, and the unifying spirit of sports.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Bhatikar emphasized how sports can break barriers and create new opportunities for all, while Minister Ravi Naik’s participation highlights the government’s support in fostering an inclusive society.

With such events, Purple Fest 2025 continues to reinforce its mission of creating a more accessible and equitable world, where everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to shine.