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Senior Journalist and Former Editor Suresh Walwe Passes Away


Veteran journalist and former editor Suresh Walve passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. He breathed his last at his residence in Whalshi. A respected name in Goan journalism, Walve was admired for his integrity, sharp editorial insight, and unwavering dedication to the principles of honest reporting.

Over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, Suresh Walve made a lasting contribution to the growth of Goa’s media landscape. His leadership in journalism was defined by fairness, accuracy, and a deep commitment to public accountability. He guided and mentored many young journalists, setting a professional benchmark for editorial excellence and ethical journalism in the State.

Walve began his journalistic journey with Dainik Rashtramat under the mentorship of the late editor Chandrakant Keni. After three years with the publication, he joined the Marathi daily Navprabha, where his dedication and editorial acumen saw him rise to the position of Editor. Over his 36-year-long career, Walve spent 22 years at the helm of Navprabha, known for his insightful and influential editorials that shaped public discourse in Goa. His passion for journalism was legendary—he worked without taking a single day off during his editorial tenure, reflecting a rare commitment to his craft.

Beyond journalism, Walve extended his service and expertise to various sectors of Goan public life. He served as a member, secretary, advisor, and president of several organizations, including the Bicholim Urban Co-operative Bank, Goa Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai Doordarshan, Film Screenplay Jury Committee, and the Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ). He also worked as an advisor to former Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, contributing his insight on developmental and communication initiatives.

An avid traveller, Walve explored the length and breadth of India and visited several countries abroad, embodying an unending curiosity and a deep appreciation for culture and diversity. His contribution to Goan media and society was acknowledged by the Goa Union of Journalists, which celebrated his life and work in its ‘Behind The Byline’ series in December last year.

The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of its esteemed member, describing Walve as a steadfast professional, respected colleague, and inspirational mentor. His passing marks a profound loss for the Goan media fraternity and for all who valued his voice, vision, and unwavering commitment to truth.

Suresh Walve was 76. He is survived by his wife and daughter. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists who follow in his footsteps, upholding the values of integrity, courage, and devotion to the truth that he so deeply cherished.

Human Interest

GUJ condoles death of IFWJ President Vikram Rao


The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) condoles the passing away of veteran journalist and National President of the Indian Federation of Working Journalists (IFWJ) Dr. K. Vikram Rao.

Vikram Rao breathed his last following complications related to respiratory condition at a private hospital in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday. He was 82 and is survived by his wife Dr. K. Sudha Rao, sons and daughter.

The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) is affiliated to the Indian Federation of Working Journalists (IFWJ).

Vikram Rao has been an editor, author, media analyst, researcher and educator for the past 51 years. He has worked as correspondent for the ‘Voice of America’, Washington, The Times of India (Mumbai), The Economic Times, Filmfare and several other dailies.

A crusader for press freedom, Vikram Rao was jailed for 13 months (kept in five prisons) in 1976 when as IFWJ Vice President he opposed press censorship and the Emergency (1975-77).

Vikram Rao was a member of Statutory Justices Majithia (2008) and Manisana Singh (1996) wage boards for journalists. He was a member for five years of the Central Press Accreditation Committee (PIB) and a member of the Press Council of India for six years until 1991.

He was also elected as the chairman of the Confederation of Asian Journalist Unions at its Colombo conference.

As an author, Vikram Rao has written nine books on media studies. He was awarded a D. Litt degree for his media work in Mumbai.

He was a lecturer on reporting at the Institutes of Mass Communication in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Kochi (Kerala), Bhopal, Kolkata and Bengaluru.

Vikram Rao last interacted with members of the Goa Union of Journalists when a delegation led by its president Rajtilak Naik visited the UP Press Club, Lucknow in 2023.

The Goa Union of Journalists conveys its deepest sympathies to the family of Vikram Rao.