PASSING THE BUCK!
WHENEVER there is an accusation against the Pramod Sawant government, inevitably the buck will be passed on to the previous Congress government. In the case of the mega Bhutani project in Sancoale, Pramod Sawant insists that the sanad was given in 2007 and the clearance by the Goa Coastal Zone Management authority was obtain in 2008. This disclosure is embarrassing to the Pramod Sawant government as Digambar Kamat was the chief minister in 2007 and Alexio Sequeira was the environmental minister. Alexio Sequeira on his part has denied granting any permission under CRZ and has challenged critics to produce the NOC.
GOA UNIVERSITY RANKING
THE Goa University has slipped down to the 150-200 category from being among the top 100 universities in the country. The chief minister claims that the university has adequate infrastructure. The ground reality is that there is a severe shortage of teaching staff. There are not enough qualified candidates with doctorates in the respective subjects who are residents of Goa and are of Goan origin.
The university’s insistence on domicile in Goa is a major obstacle to the recruitment of faculty. Indeed, most of the chancellors of the Goa University starting from Dr B Sheikh Ali, the first vice-chancellor to the present vice-chancellor Dr Prof Harilal B Menon, are from outside the state. Part of the problem is that there are very few job opportunities for those who pass out of Goa University.
YOUR MOBILE COULD EXPLODE!
THE Israelis have reportedly converted Pagers (wireless telecommunication device) into weapons against the Hamas militants in Lebanon. It is claimed that over 2,000 Pagers which were bought by the Hezbollah militants five months ago from a Taiwan company, were tampered with by the Israeli spy agency Mossad.
Explosives in small quantities were detonated through a text message. The militants had equipped their fighters with Pagers as smart phones give away the location of the militants. Pagers are one way communication devices where the location of the sender cannot be identified. Over 14 people were killed and 450 were hurt as even walkie-talkies blew up during the funeral of those killed.
There is panic in the Middle East over even the use of mobiles as they also can be tampered with. Even in the normal course we have read reports of smart phones exploding when the lithium battery is overheated.
BULLDOZER JUSTICE
THE Supreme Court has barred the demolition of buildings with bulldozers. This has become very common in Uttar Pradesh. Whenever members of a minority community are arrested on charges of storing or consuming beef, the Swamy Yogi Aditiyanath government takes to using bulldozers to demolish their homes and business establishments.
All state BJP governments have started using bulldozers to take revenge on rivals and critics of the government. The Supreme Court has taken very strong objection and has forbidden all state governments from bulldozing houses and business establishments without court permission.
SPACE FOR FISH, MEAT
IT may be recalled that the fish and meat shops at the Panaji Municipal market were shut down as the old building in which they were located was deemed unsafe. Ever since there has been no proper place for the fish and meat vendors. The Goa bench of the Bombay High Court has directed the CCP to provide alternate space for fish and meat vendors in the market with infrastructure like electric cold storage.
CCP’S JE Coelho argued that the meat vendors are not CCP tenants. They could find alternative space in private buildings. However, the CCP has ruled that it is the duty of the CCP to provide them space as it has illegally evicted them.
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP ON LOGISTICS
CHIEF MINISTER Dr Pramod Sawant inaugurated a two-day workshop on logistics organized by the Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce (DITC) at Mantralaya, Porvorim on September 19, 2024. The event also featured the launch of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document for the implementation and utilization of the PM Gati Shakti State Master Plan for Goa.
The workshop focused on key initiatives including PM Gati Shakti, the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP), and the implementation of the Goa Logistics and Warehousing Policy 2023. In his address the CM emphasized the government’s commitment to developing the logistics sector to attract investment and create employment opportunities. “Through the Goa Logistics and Warehousing Policy and the collaborative efforts of all departments, we aim to enhance our logistics capabilities.” He highlighted the government’s aim in developing hard infrastructure, such as roads and ports, and soft infrastructure, including digital portals and software through the PM Gati Shakti State Master Plan.
The CM noted that the data of critical infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, industries, and roads are currently being mapped within the PM Gati Shakti portals. He announced that the government will implement a Transport Management System utilizing the Unified Logistics Interface Platform. Girish Kumar Surpur, CEO of NLDSL, presented on the ULIP and the potential applications for government operations, while Ravi Kiran, Deputy Secretary, DPIIT, government of India, provided insights into the PM Gati Shakti initiative.
The two-day workshop of September 19-20 aimed to equip nodal officers from various departments with the necessary skills to implement the state master plan effectively. A team from BISAG-N, Ahmedabad offered hands-on training on the PM Gati Shakti portal. The event was attended by Egna Cleetus, IAS, Director of Industries, Trade and Commerce; Swetika Sachan, IAS, Secretary, Industries, Trade and Commerce; Omvir Singh Bishnoi, Inspector General of Goa Police; and senior government officials from various departments. Program compere was Geeta Joshi, Planning Officer, DITC.
GOA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PARK UNIT
GOA University proudly inaugurated its highly anticipated Research Park Unit on September 18, 2024 at the auspicious hands of Chief Minister of Goa Dr Pramod Sawant, in the presence of Prasad Lolayekar, IAS, Secretary, Education, government of Goa and Prof Harilal Menon, Vice Chancellor. Also present on the dais were Prof V S Nadkarni, Registrar, Goa University and Professor Sandeep Garg, Director, DI3P. The program was attended by Bhushan Savaikar, Director, Directorate of Higher Education and other officials from DHE, principals of colleges, executive committee members of Goa University, deans, officers and teaching and non-teaching staff of Goa University.
The event commenced with the cutting of the ribbon by the CM at the Life Science Wing in the presence of esteemed guests and faculty members. The new Research Park Unit features state-of-the-art facilities including Bio-incubator, a Health incubator, an IT incubator, a meeting-cum-conference room, and an electronics-cum-fabrication room. Goa University has marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its pioneering Goa University Research Park Unit (GURU). This cutting-edge facility is poised to become a hub for fostering innovation and entrepreneurial ventures across various sectors, including biotechnology, health, information technology, and electronics.
One of the key moments of the event was the honoringof 10 teams selected under the handholding and start-up scheme 2023-24. These teams, which represent innovative projects ranging from sustainable agriculture to energy-efficient technologies, are set to benefit from the university’s support in transforming their ideas into impactful ventures. Beneficiaries of the scheme included Kaushal Prabhudesai, Sai Rane, Dr Andrew D’Souza, Komal Salkar, Leo D’Souza, Suhaana Nadaf, Yuvradnyee Naik and Pritesh Khobrekar.
A book on Goa University flora entitled “Nature’s Palette,” written by Dr Siddhi Jalmi (Assistant Professor of Botany) along with Ashweta Gaude (research scholar) was released and the ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof VS Nadkarni, Registrar of Goa University. This inauguration marks a new chapter for the university, as it continues to make significant strides in research and innovation, contributing to Goa’s growth as a hub for scientific and technological progress.
MARITIME ACADEMY LAUNCHED
ASPIRING seafarers in Goa can now sign up for updated entry level training programs and avail of internationally recognised certificate courses in order to make them job ready for the shipping industry at the newly instituted Verna-based Kamaxi Maritime Academy (KMA), the state’s newest maritime academy dedicated to preparing students for onshore and offshore positions in the industry.
The comprehensive onsite short-term courses are approved by the Directorate General of Shipping, India. The setting up of the KMA by the Kamaxi Group comes at a time when there is a growing need for young talent to adapt to the evolving needs of the global shipping industry, which is shifting towards decarbonisation and digitalisation. As the maritime sector faces a significant shortage of skilled labour, the academy offers a range of comprehensive short-term courses designed to equip aspiring maritime professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in this dynamic industry.
Manoj Kumar Pandey, Principal of Kamaxi Maritime Academy, highlights the critical timing of the academy’s launch, noting the current shortage of certified entry level professionals in the industry. “With the maritime sector facing unprecedented changes, it’s essential for job seekers to update their skills to remain relevant. Our academy is dedicated to delivering world-class compact training that prepares students for both onshore and offshore positions, equipping them with the knowledge and expertise required to navigate the complexities of modern shipping practices. Our academy, our facilities and our teachers will be the first glimpse and taste of life at sea for these youngsters aiming for a life and a career on the high seas, we ensure that KMA trained seafarers meet the highest standards of training, ready to tackle the challenges of the maritime industry. ”
The newly established academy operates under the Kamaxi Group, a leader in hospitality training, recruitment and skilling. The Verna-based academy adds to the maritime educational landscape in Goa, which already hosts institutions like the NUSI Maritime Academy, Institute of Maritime Studies and the SeaScan Maritime Institute, among others.
The academy’s curriculum is meticulously designed to address contemporary industry practices, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to secure employment and excel in their maritime careers. Among the courses offered by KMA are the Basic STCW Safety Training Course, which meets the mandatory requirements for seafarers’ familiarisation, safety training, and instruction as per the STCW Code; Security Training for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties (STSDSD), providing essential knowledge for seafarers involved in Ship Security Plans (SSP); Refresher courses in Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (RFPFF) and Personal Survival Techniques (RPST), ensuring that seafarers meet the latest safety standards; and a combined Basic STCW Safety Training and Security Training (BST+STSDSD) course that covers essential safety and security duties.
Admissions are now open to students who have cleared their Class 10 exams and meet the required criteria for their respective programs. Interested candidates can apply for these short-term courses through the academy’s official website at www.kamaximaritime.com.
OATH OF OFFICE TO SCIC & SIC
Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai administered the oath of office to newly appointed State Chief Information Commissioner Aravind Kumar H Nair and State Information Commissioner Atmaram Ramkrishna Barve at the Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Dona Paula in the presence of CM Pramod Sawant on September 17, 2024.
Director of Information & Publicity Dipak Bandekar read out the order of appointment of SCIC and SIC. Minister for Panchayat Mauvin Godinho, Minister for Law Aleixo Sequeira, Advocate General Devidas Pangam, Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Rajya Sabha MP, MLAs, Acting Chief Secretary & Principal Secretary, Dr V Candavelou , Alok Kumar, DGP, Goa along with other dignitaries were also present for the ceremony.
VISHWAKARMA ADARSH KARMA AWARDS, 2024
CHIEF Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, reiterating commitment to the welfare of workers, has said that exploitation of workers would not be allowed and added that they shouldn’t come on the road to get their issues resolved, but can have proper dialogue for which the doors of the government are always open. The CM was speaking at the Vishwakarma Jayanti function organized by the Office of the Commissioner, Labour & Employment, at Patto, Panaji, on September 17, 2024. Vishwakarma Adarsh Kamgar Awards 2024 were also awarded on the occasion.
The CM further said the working class from the unorganized sector not considered in terms of development earlier, will be recognized hereafter and any issues with regards to their welfare would be addressed. Emphasizing the intention of the government to create a work culture, he said the government lays thrust on creating skilled manpower. In order to accomplish this objective, the government has implemented some schemes, financial assistance for upgradation of education and home loan with low interest for employees from the private sector. The recipients of Vishwakarma Adarsh Kamgar Award 2024 were also complimented by the chief minister.
Minister for Labour & Employment Atanasio Monserrate highlighted the significance of Vishwakarma Jayanti. He said it was not just celebrating but paying a tribute to the tireless efforts and remarkable contributions of our workers, who are the true architects of Goa’s progress and prosperity. He announced the launching two crucial initiatives — the introduction of a new channel of communication and support for the youth, and the launch of a WhatsApp group and a dedicated WhatsApp number. This initiative is designed to provide job seekers with direct access to information and upcoming activity updates. It will serve as a platform where they can stay informed about the various employment activities available to them.
The Minister further said that this initiative is a reflection of the government’s commitment to not only support the current workforce but also to invest in the future generation of workers and leaders, “As we launch these initiatives, let us remember that our true strength lies in the hands of our workers, artisans and craftsmen. It is through their skills, creativity, dedication that our state continues to thrive.” The minister extended his warm greetings on the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti to all workers.
Recipients of the Vishwakarma Adarsh Kamgar Award 2024 are Vinod Naik, operator, M/s Sonatapes Pvt Ltd, Corlim, Goa; Ramchandra Prabhugaonkar, technician, M/s Betts India Ltd, Verna IDC; Chandrappa B, shipwright, SK, Material Organization (Goa), Indian Navy; Umesh Lamani, welder, INS Hansa, Indian Navy; Pascimento Dionizio Lobo, senior tinsmith/welder, M/s Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd; Prabhakar Dattaram Dessai, production assistant, M/s Schiffer & Menezes India Pvt Ltd, Verna IDC; Hanumanta Jayappa Harijan, workman, Vasco Municipality; Megha Pereira, sweeper, Corporation of the City of Panaji; Baptista Fernandes, workman, Margao Municipality and Samar Biswash, workman, IPHB Girls Hostel Construction Site, Goa
Secretary Labour & Employment Sandip Jaques IAS Trade Union Leader Adv Raju Mangueshkar, Prasanna Utagi, Kamgaraancho Ekvott, Subhash Naik George and Head Goa Municipal Employees Association Keshav Prabhu, Goa Trade & Commercial Workers Union leader Suhas Naik and staff of Labour & Employment department were among those who attended the function. Commissioner Labour & Employment Dr. Levinson Martins welcomed the guests. The function was compered by Asst Employment Officer Goa Dattaraj Naik whereas Deputy Commissioner Satish Waghonkar proposed the vote of thanks.
PROTECTION OF GOA’S NATURAL HERITAGE
ACCORDING to Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai we are living in the speed age. Indeed, speed can significantly impact progress in various aspects of life. He was addressing a function organised by the Raj Bhavan on the occasion of the 74th Birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant presided over the function. Dr PM Varier, Managing Trustee, Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, Kerala and Devidas Varier, Managing Director, Coimbatore Arya Vaidya Pharmacy Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu graced the occasion as the guests of honour. Minister for Environment Aleixo Sequeira was also present
Earlier, the governor along with First Lady of Goa Rita Shreedharan Pillai and other dignitaries offered prayers in the Church, Shree Ganesh temple and Gaushala at the Raj Bhavan grounds, seeking the blessings of god for the good health of the prime minister and many more years of dedicated service for the peace and prosperity of the country, and achievement of his grand vision of Viksit Bharat.
In his address Governor Pillai said the traditional method of treatment and rejuvenation of trees is still not known much to the world and hence, it was appropriate to demonstrate some unique tree therapy at the Raj Bhavan as a mission to save age-old trees. In this respect Ayurvedic conservationists, doctors from Kerala have been invited to carry out the longevity for trees treatment. It will inspire people and particularly the younger generation towards respecting, protecting and preserving Goa’s natural heritage and wonderful traditions, the governor added.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant wished the Prime Minister of India and said he has been a beacon of strength and vision for our nation. His leadership has steered India towards greater heights, not just in terms of economic growth and technological advancements, but in reviving and preserving the essence of Bharatiya culture and tradition.
The CM further praised the unique initiatives of Raj Bhavan and the governor’s greatest contribution in putting emphasis on preserving Goa’s environment, promoting sustainable development and reconnecting us with the wisdom of our ancient heritage. He added that trees, especially those that have stood tall for centuries, are not just part of our environment but a living legacy. These ancient trees hold the stories of our land and are a testament to our respect for nature and Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant appealed to all Goans to take care of the traditional old trees of Goa.
Dr PM Varier, Managing Trustee, Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, Kerala and Devidas Varier, Managing Director, Coimbatore Arya Vaidya Pharmacy Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu also spoke on the occasion. M R M Rao, IAS, Secretary to Governor welcomed the guests and R Mihir Vardhan, IAS(Retd), Special Officer to the Governor gave an introductory speech. Paipra Radhakrishnan talked about “Vriksha Ayurveda” for trees.
More than a 100-year-old fruit-bearing trees that are slowly decaying due to infections, have been identified for treatment for the purpose of healing and bestowing them with a longer lease of life. This is the first of its kind initiative in the history of the Raj Bhavan. The Raj Bhavan has also undertaken “Vriksha Ayurveda Chikitsa” also known as “Poshana Yoga” for the nourishment of trees as per principles of Vriksha Ayurveda, a rare treatise on the science of plant life.
Recently, the Raj Bhavan undertook yet another unique initiative towards paying a glorious tribute to Indian medicine, by deciding to install the statues of two of our legendary physicians of ancient India, namely Charaka (“Father of Ayurveda”) and Sushruta (“Father of Surgery”) on the lawns of the Raj Bhavan. This project is under way and is likely to be inaugurated by end-September.
VMSCL’S GROUNDWATER RECHARGE PROJECT
THE VM Salgaocar College of Law (VMSCL) in collaboration with environmental NGO Dhavrukh, under the guidance of Rudresh Mhamal, Successfully completed a groundwater conservation project on its campus on September 15, 2024. This initiative is part of the Bhu Jal Sanvardhan initiative, which aims to address the critical issue of groundwater depletion through sustainable water management practices.
The project features the installation of a rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge system, which efficiently captures and stores rainwater, directing it into the soil to replenish shallow aquifers. With an annual capacity to recharge up to 20 lakh litres of groundwater, this system plays a vital role in conserving a precious natural resource. Moreover, it serves as an educational model for raising awareness about water conservation among students, staff and the local community.
The project was implemented under the leadership of Principal Dr G Shaber Ali and Administrator DP Pednekar, with coordination by Asst Prof Ramrai Naik and Audumber Uskaikar. VMSCL urges individuals and institutions to adopt similar initiatives, which can collectively contribute to substantial and lasting environmental impact. Green campus initiatives of VMSCL have received several recognitions and accolades, including the District Championship Award from EduTrust India.
SWACHHATA HI SEVA CAMPAIGN
CHIEF MinisterDr Pramod Sawant launched the State-level Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign on September 17, 2024 at a function organized by the Department of Urban Development and the Goa State Urban Development Agency, in collaboration with the Department of Panchayat, Department of Rural Development, and Corporation of the City Panaji. The event took place at the Art & Culture Hall in Panaji.
The campaign themed “Swabhav Swachhata — Sanskaar Swachhata” will run from September 17 to October 2, 2024 with the aim of fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental responsibility across Goa. In his address the CM emphasized the importance of preserving nature by maintaining a clean environment and protecting old and rare tree species. He urged every Goan to ensure their surroundings are free from garbage.
The CM announced a competition encouraging all 12 talukas to participate in a “Clean & Neat Taluka” challenge over the next 15 days, with awards for the best-performing talukas. Additionally, the government has allowed heads of the offices to allocate up to Rs5 lakh for cleaning up their offices, underscoring the administration’s commitment to effective waste management. He also highlighted Goa’s pioneering efforts in establishing advanced waste management facilities, including Solid Waste Management Plants, Biomedical Waste Management Plants, E-waste Plants and Construction Waste Plants. Dr Sawant concluded by stressing that cleanliness is a significant personal contribution to society.
Panchayat Minister Mauvin Godhino emphasized the need for panchayats to ensure the collection of garbage taxes and highlighted the funds allocated to 100 panchayats under the Swachh Bharat Mission. He appealed to young people to lead the way in fostering cleanliness awareness and personal responsibility. The event was attended by Dr Sanjay Goel, IAS, Secretary of Urban Development; Rohit Monserrate, CCP Mayor; Gopal Parsekar, Director, Directorate of Rural Development; Brijesh Manerkar, Director, Directorate of Urban Development; Siddhi Halarnkar, Director, Directorate of Panchayat; and other distinguished guests. Pradeep Naik compered and proposed the vote of thanks.