10 years later, Belgavi-Goa road finally back in shape
BELAGAVI: The scenic BelagaviGoa road, which winds through the lush and dense Western Ghats, is finally back in shape. After decades of neglect, the state government has completed the long-awaited reconstruction and asphalting of this vital route. Commuters from Belagavi can now enjoy a smooth, hassle-free journey to Panaji in just 2.5 to 3 hours. The final phase of the project included the asphalting of an 810 km stretch between Kusmalli and Kinaye. As assured by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Karnataka Public Works Department (PWD), the work has been completed on schedule. While the Goa side of the road, maintained by the Goa PWD, has consistently remained in good condition, the Karnataka stretch, around 50 km, had been in a deplorable state for over two decades. NHAI Project Director Bhuvanesh Kumar confirmed that the entire stretch has been completed within the stipulated deadline. Monitored by NHAI, the Karnataka PWD carried out the implementation, and the route is now ready to offer commuters a safe and pleasant travel experience. Authorities also noted that the bridge near Kankumbi is being completed on a war footing.
With Op Sindoor, PM Has Given Message That Terrorism Will Be Punished, Terrorists Hunted Down: VP
Panaji, May 22: Hailing Operation Sindoor, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a message to our difficult neighbours and the global community that terrorism will be punished and terrorists will be hunted down. The four-day operation between May 7 and 10 saw Indian forces eliminate terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as retaliation for the horrific April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 persons, mostly tourists, were killed. Bharat is very different [] The post With Op Sindoor, PM Has Given Message That Terrorism Will Be Punished, Terrorists Hunted Down: VP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
90% disability, 900% determination: Kerala para-swimmer redefines 'ability', one stroke at a time
Muhammed Aasim has just returned to his hometown, Velimanna in Kozhikode, after making waves at the recently concluded World Para Swimming Series in Paris. His voice brims with excitement as he relives his remarkable feat in the 50m and 100m freestyle, and the 50m backstroke. Aasim has become a source of pride for Kerala by qualifying for the World Para Swimming Championships, to be held in Singapore from September 21 to 27. Hold on, his achievements go far beyond the pool. He was born without both arms. His right leg is stunted. With 90 per cent physical disability, the 19-year-old has never let his challenges define him. Instead, he has rewritten the meaning of ability. Aasim is the first Indian para swimmer to be ranked internationally in the S2 category (no hand or wrist flexion). Currently, he ranks 10th globally. Picked by the Paralympic Committee of India, a 12-member team including eight swimmers, coach Sanjay Bisht, and physio Dr Ashkar Ali Kelath participated in the Paris series. Making it wasnt easy. Aasim needed Rs 7 lakh. It was out of reach for him. He is the eldest of seven siblings, and the familys sole breadwinner the only income is what Aasim earns through local competitions and events like inaugurations. I sought help via social media. Several sponsors came forward, and thats how my dream became a reality, he says. With just a few months left for the world championship, and under the guidance of coach Sreekanth Mavur, Asim is now training at the Blue Bucks Swimming Centre in Kozhikode. His dream is to win a medal for India. Aasim with his mentor Saji Valasseril during his initial days of training in the Periyar River Taking the plunge It was in 2022, at the age of 16, that Asim decided to learn swimming. Right from my childhood, whenever I saw waterbodies, all I wanted was to dive in, float away for hours, he says. Obviously, I had to suppress that urge. But there were times I could not resist. I would jump in, and people nearby would rescue me. My parents would initially not even consider my desire to learn swimming. Aasims life changed when he met Saji Valasseril, a popular swimming coach in Aluva, who has trained over 10,000 people over the past 16 years. Before he started training me, Saji sir practised for 40 days, tying his hands together and swimming, just to understand what it would take to coach someone like me, Aasim recalls. Once he completed that, we began training in the Periyar River. Soon, for the first time, I could float. It was a magical moment. Within months, Aasim pulled off something extraordinary. From the very spot where he began training, he swam across the Periyar covering about 800m in 61 minutes. It was not just a personal milestone. It was a message to society as well. Now, as I look back, it was a risky adventure. But under Saji sirs guidance and with a support crew in place, I was full of josh. All I ever wanted was to swim. The fact that I could do it, and inspire others in the process, is something I will always cherish, Aasim smiles. Speaking up Aasim says he has never hesitated to voice his needs or stand up for what he rightfully deserved. This trait was evident when he petitioned for the upgrade of the Velimanna Government LP School near his house, as the daily travel to the faraway UP school was arduous. I even got to meet the then chief minister Oommen Chandy. Thanks to his special consideration, the school was eventually upgraded, says Aasim. Later, he campaigned for the school to be upgraded to a high school. He embarked on a wheelchair journey over 450km from the school to the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram that was completed in 52 days. Today, the appeal I made to the government, demanding that children with disabilities be granted basic human rights, has reached the Supreme Court, says Aasim. Beyond education, promoting swimming as a vital life skill is another cause close to Aasims heart. Moreover, seeking to inspire others and extend support to those in need, he has set up the Aasim Velimanna Foundation for promoting inclusive education and sports. Kerala, despite being home to numerous waterbodies, sees a significant number of drowning incidents each year. It is high time that we made swimming part of the curriculum. The government must take initiative in this regard, he says. Through my foundation, I aspire to bring about this change so that swimming is recognised as an essential life-saving skill for every person. Lack of government support Aasim says the government has been apathetic towards him despite a string of achievements including sweeping gold in all three events at the 24th National Para Swimming Competition in Panaji, Goa, setting a new national record in the S2 category for the 100m and 50m freestyle, and being chosen as the best para swimmer of 202425 from among over 500 athletes across 26 states. In many states, athletes receive financial support sometimes up to `5 lakh for representing the state. From the Kerala government, forget financial help, we dont even get a congratulatory message at times. Its disheartening, says Aasim, who still does not have access to high-performance coaching and facilities. I just hope that for the upcoming World Para Swimming Championships, we receive some backing from the Central government. Aasim, however, highlights several well-wishers have played a key role in fuelling his journey. As I mentioned earlier, many came forward to support my trip to Paris. Another unforgettable moment was when one Kannur-based businessman offered me a trip to 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar, where I got to meet legends such as Messi and Mbappe. Aasim with Lionel Messi and another para-athlete in Qatar Looking ahead Aasim, who was recently nominated for UAEs Golden Visa, aims to scale greater heights by being a part of the Asian Games and the Paralympics. I also aspire to climb Mt Everest. Through these endeavours, I want to inspire those who are stuck in life, he says. I want to convey the message that a person gets curbed when fear takes over the mind. Live life fully with courage even in the face of adversity. Aasim with his physiotherapist Dr Ashkar Ali
IMD issues red alert for Goa, predicts intense rainfall
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Goa, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall and potential flash floods. Panaji and other talukas are expected to experience moderate to intense rainfall in the coming hours. Authorities are urged to regulate traffic, and residents in vulnerable areas should take precautions as the state has already recorded 25 tree falls.
Goa temple stampede: Committee blames admin, police, crowd
Panaji: A committee which conducted an inquiry into the stampede at a temple in Goa has held the district administration, police, temple committee and the crowd behaviour collectively responsible for the tragedy. Six persons died and more than a hundred others were injured after a stampede broke out during an annual festival at Shree Devi Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rs 2.63 cr cryp to fraud: Gujarat man arrested for duping senior citizen
Staff Reporter Panaji The state cyber crime police have arrested a 39-year-old Gujarat native, Ramesh Kumar Yadav, in connection with the cryptocurrency fraud in which a senior citizen from Bardez lost hislifetime savings of overRs 2.63 crore. During the investigation, cyber police conducted financial analysis and traced Yadav, a resident of Amraiwadi in Ahmedabad. A []
Dengue cases: Only 6 reportedin April compared to 19 last year
Staff Reporter Panaji The state reported six confirmed cases of dengue in April this year as against 19 confirmed cases during the same month, last year. All the six confirmed cases reported are in North Goa two in Mapusa, while one each in Pernem, Candolim, Aldona and Siolim. South Goa did not see any []
Bribery case: HC grants conditional bail to suspended PI, constable
Staff Reporter Panaji The High Court of Bombay at Goa has granted conditional bail to suspended police inspector (PI) Sunil Gudlar and head constable (HC) Mohammad Hussen Harihar, both of whom were arrested in a bribery case by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Directorate of Vigilance. Earlier, the District and Sessions Court, South Goa, []
Goa to boost recycling by connecting homesto local kabadiwalas via new tech platform
Staff Reporter Panaji In a bid to boost recycling and reduce waste, Goa is set to get a tech-driven push with the launch of The Kabadiwala a digital platform aimed at connecting households directly with local kabadiwalas for responsible recovery of dry recyclable materials. Goa generates a significant volume of dry waste every day, []
Goa temple stampede: condition of 3 injured victims improves
Panaji: Three out of the five persons who were seriously injured in a stampede in North Goa district showed signs of improvement on Sunday, a hospital official said. The death toll in Saturdays tragedy during the Shree Lairai Devi temple festival at Shirgao village remained unchanged at six. A total of 14 patients were admitted Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
6 killed, over 70 injured in pre-dawn stampede at temple festival in Goa
Panaji: Six persons including two women were killed and more than 70 sustained injuries after a stampede broke out during a temple festival at a village in North Goa district in the wee hours of Saturday, officials said. The Goa government ordered a magisterial inquiry into the tragedy at Shirgao village, and also transferred five Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
North Goa temple stampede: Collector, SP shunted out
PANAJI: Hours after six devotees lost their lives in a stampede during a temple festival in Goa, the state government on Saturday ordered the transfer of five senior officials, including the North Goa collector and the superintendent of police. In order to ensure free and fair inquiry, the government has transferred District Collector Sneha Gitte, Superintendent of Police (North) Akshat Kaushal, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Bicholim) Jivba Dalvi, Deputy Collector (Bicholim) Bhimnath Khorjuvekar and Police Inspector Dinesh Gadekar with immediate effect, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant told reporters. Addressing a press conference in Panaji, Sawant said a fact-finding committee, headed by State Revenue Secretary Sandeep Jacques and comprising senior police officer Varma Sharma, Parimal Abhishekh, State Director of Transport, and Tikam Singh Varma, SP, South Goa, as its members has been constituted. Sawant said the panel will visit the stampede site at Shirgao village and prepare a report after speaking with all the concerned persons, including the Superintendent of Police, Collector, and officials of Fire and Emergency Services. The committee will submit its report by Sunday morning. Sawant said the death toll remains six. Injured people were admitted to Goa Medical College and Hospital and five of them are on the ventilator, while eight persons are undergoing treatment in North Goa District Hospital.
Goa Stampede: CM Sawant Orders Magisterial Inquiry After 6 People Killed At Temple Festival
The incident occurred around 3 am on Saturday at Sree Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao village, about 40 km from Panaji.
6 killed, 30 injured in stampede at Goa temple festival
At least six people were killed and 30 injured in a stampede during a temple festival in North Goa, India. The incident occurred at the Sree Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao village, around 40 km from Panaji, as thousands of devotees thronged the narrow lanes to the temple for the annual festival.
Damodar Mauzos Jeev Diu Kai Chya Marungets Hindi translation
Konkani writerand Jnanpith awardeeDamodar Mauzos novel, Jeev Diu Kai Chya Marun which is now translated into Hindi by Ramita Gurav titled, Jaan Di Jayein Ya Chai Ho Jaayein, will be launched on April 29,5 p.m. attheMulti-Purpose Hall, Sanskruti Bhavan, Panaji. The book, published by Vaani Prakashan Group, will be launched by writer, translator and critic,professorHarish []
Vascon Engineers Bags Rs 225-Crore Construction Project In Goa
The order involves construction of two terminal buildings along with ropeway tower works at Panaji and Reis Magos in Goa.
Over 50 Tourists From Goa Stuck In J&K After Pahalgam Terror Attack: Officials
Panaji, Apr 23: More than 50 persons from Goa who were on a vacation to Jammu and Kashmir were stranded at hotels in Srinagar after the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam and efforts were on to bring them back, officials said on Wednesday. Terrorists struck at a prime tourist location in Pahalgam in south Kashmir on Tuesday, killing at least 26 persons, mostly tourists, and injuring several others, according to officials. The terrorists opened fire at tourists who were milling [] The post Over 50 Tourists From Goa Stuck In J&K After Pahalgam Terror Attack: Officials appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
20 ha cashew plantation revival in 2025, 1.5k ha in next 2 years
Staff Reporter Panaji With 12.5 per cent of the land under cashew crop in the state with the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), chairperson Deviya Rane on Monday said the GFDC is making intensive efforts to rejuvenate old cashew plantations to increase yield. The Poriem MLA said that GFDC has been steadily rejuvenating cashew plantations []
Fresh stray sterilisation drives for North & South Goa soon
Staff Reporter Panaji The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) is launching a fresh round of sterilisation drives targeting stray dogs in both North and South Goa. The AH&VS director Nitin Naik said that staff will be deployed daily to carry out neutering operations in both districts, with dedicated officials working region-wise. In []
Francis courageously addressed critical world issues, says Pillai
Staff Reporter Panaji Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai said that Pope Francis will be remembered as a spiritual teacher of the highest order, who tirelessly spread the message of human love, global harmony, and peace. Terming him as a bold reformer, Pillai said that Francis courageously addressed critical global issuesbe it terrorism, climate change, or []
A true shephard, he championed cause of marginalised: Ferrao
Staff Reporter Panaji Pope Francis call to care for Mother Earth was highly appreciated and sparked a global movement, said Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao. Calling his demise an immeasurable loss to the entire Church, Ferrao said Francis was a true shepherd of Gods people, who dedicated his life to spreading []
CM reviews govt schemes, budget implementation
Special Correspondent Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant chaired a meeting with Chief Secretary and Secretaries to various government departments at the Secretariat, on Monday to review the implementation of various government schemes and budget implementation. Discussions were also held on streamlining execution and ensuring effective delivery of services to every Goan. Later, Sawant said that []
KA auditoriums AC plays up, Gaude alleges sabotage
Repeated technical glitches to be probed Special Correspondent Panaji: Minister for Art and Culture Govind Gaude on Sunday said he would initiate a detailed investigation into the repeated technical failures in the Dinanath Mangueshkar auditorium of the Kala Academy (KA) complex, especially during the staging of professional Marathi plays, just as allegations were made as []
Study flags Goas overfishing of vulnerable shark
Recommends enhancing monitoring systems, conducting detailed market surveys Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji : A study has flagged the overfishing of vulnerable shark, identifying Goa and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh as critical hubs in a trade that threatens marine biodiversity and coastal livelihoods. Titled as Identifying leverage points for sustainability in Indias shark supply chains, the []
Enforce registration of dogs to curb abandonment, manage stray nos
Mission Rabies issues recommendations following toddlers death in stray dog attack Panaji: In the aftermath of the tragic incident in which a 20-month-old girl lost her life after being mauled by a pack of stray dogs in Ponda, Mission Rabies has issued a set of urgent recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies. It also called []
Goa looking at erecting a strong start-up-orientated ecosystem: CM
Panaji: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, addressing the gathering at the 43rd Foundation Day of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) held in Ahmedabad virtually, said India is pacing fast on the path of becoming a foremost startup nation and that Goa too is looking at erecting a strong start-up-orientated ecosystem. Sawant praised Gujarats development []
Police book 1,000-odd offences along Goas coast in past 3 months
Panaji: Tourist police posted along the states beaches have acted against over 1,000 violations in the past three months, including drinking, driving and dumping garbage, and handed over the suspected persons to the local police stations for necessary action. Superintendent of Police (Tourist police) Akshat Kaushal said, 545 cases are related to garbage dumping, 265 []
Plant biodiversity along Sal, Zuari rivers on decline
Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji A study published in the Plant-Environment Interactions journal (2025) has called on the states River Rejuvenation Project to look beyond just beautification and instead address the need for deeper interventions, while flagging the decline in plant species diversity along Goas Sal and Zuari rivers due to increasing human activity and water []
Mango moment: Mankurad prices finally sliding
Shahin Bepari Lambe Panaji In some good news for mango lovers, prices of the prized Mankurad variety of the fruit have started to drop in the local markets. The small to medium-sized mangoes of the variety are now being sold at Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,500 per dozen, which is a sharp drop from the []
Prajat Halankar powers into semis
Staff Reporter Panaji Prajat Halankar continued his fine run at the Bandodkar Panjim Gymkhana Tennis Open 2025, outclassing Raju Kundaikar 6-3 in the mens singles quarter-finals. One of the tournaments most consistent performers, Prajat is set to return to thecourt later Thursday, teaming up with Avadhut Palekar for the mens doubles quarter-final. Palekar, meanwhile, heads []
Govt eases norms for repair of single dwelling units in villages
Staff Reporter Panaji Easing the norms, the panchayats directorate has issued a new circular designating the village panchayat secretary as the sole point of contact for issuing no objection certificates (NOCs) for the repair of single dwelling units. The move, aimed at simplifying the process and reducing delays, was introduced to ease the burden on []
No new sanads to be issued for converting farmlands, says CM
Staff Reporter Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced on Wednesday that henceforth no new sanad (a certificate granting permission for non-agricultural use) will be issued for farmlands, as per the Goa Restriction on Transfer of Agricultural LandAct, 2023, When mediapersons pointed out that despite notifying the new agriculture policy by the government, paddy fields are []
10,000 seats up for grabs: UG admissions via SAMARTH to commence on April 11
Staff Reporter Panaji The online admission process for undergraduate (UG) courses will commence from April 11 onwards, the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE) said. Around 10,000 seats will be filled across the different programmes in various colleges. The admissions will be conducted on the SAMARTH e-Gov platform and online applications will be accepted from 11 []
IPL cricket betting racket busted,34 held, Rs 40 lakh articles seized
Staff Reporter Panaji The Crime Branch of Goa Police on Wednesday said it has busted a major IPL cricket betting racket through two separate raids, arresting 34 accused persons, including the main accused Lucky Kalra, a native of Rajasthan. Laptops, mobile phones, and other equipment worth Rs 40 lakh were also seized. Over the past []
Central agencies grill Atala over possible links to intl drug trade
Staff Reporter Panaji Officials from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) have separately interrogated Israeli national Yaniv Benaim alias Atala (50), who was recently arrested by the Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) of Goa Police in a drug-related case. Sources said both central agencies questioned Atala regarding his possible links to national and []
State, IOCL join forces to supercharge EV infra
Staff Reporter Panaji The Goa government has partnered with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to set up a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and advanced battery swapping facilities across the state. The initiative also includes developing essential roadside amenities such as toilets and changing rooms along national highways. To support the initiative, the []
Goa govt partners with TERI for Khazan revival, ecotourism
Staff Reporter Panaji The Goa government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) to collaborate on the revival of Khazan lands and the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Natural Resource Management and Ecotourism in the state. The Centre will focus on coastal and marine resource management, []
BJP sets target to increase vote share to 52% in 2027 polls
Staff Reporter Panaji The Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Goa unit has set an ambitious target to increase its vote share from the current 33.36 percent to 52 percent in the 2027 Goa legislative assembly elections. The party is also aiming to win over 27 seats in the 40-member assembly. Speaking at the North Goa BJP []
Staff Reporter Panaji LD Samant High School made light work of Peoples High School, registering a commanding nine-wicket victory in their U-14 President Cup clash at the Panjim Gymkhana ground on Wednesday. Put into bowl, LD Samants bowling unit dismantled Peoples HS for a modest 89 in 22.4 overs. Sanchit starred with the ball, returning []
Law to regularise irregularstructures on private lands
Staff Reporter Panaji The state government announced on Tuesday that it will promulgate an ordinance or bring in a bill to regularise irregular structures built in private properties. However, the government has taken a firm stand on the removal of encroached structures on government lands and along roadsides. The move comes in the wake of []
Govt revamping investments scheme to enhance usefulness
Staff Reporter Panaji The government is revamping the Goa State Incentives to Encourage Investments Scheme 2017 to improve the usefulness of the initiative to local industrial units. The umbrella scheme to incentivise industry is being revised under the Raising and Accelerating MSMIE Performance (RAMP) project, for which Goa has been sanctioned Rs 61.6 crore by []
Rights panel directs construction of crematorium in Sanguems Bhati
Staff Reporter Panaji The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has directed the South Goa collector, the panchayats director and the range forest officer to hand over land to the Bhati village panchayat in Sanguem taluka and ensure the construction of a crematorium within 60 days. The order was issued following a complaint filed by Bhati []
Bhoomkar sisters to clash in quarters
Staff Reporter Panaji Bhaavya Bhoomkar kept her impressive run alive across three categories at the Bandodkar Panjim Gymkhana Tennis Open 2025, storming into the semi-finals of the girls U-14 and reaching the quarter-finals in both the girls U-18 and ladies singles events. She is now set to face her elder sister, top seed Tithee Bhoomkar, []
Goas local onions output hit amid labour crunch, competition from cheaper imports
Bhiva Parab Panaji Its the season of gaothi kande or uliche kandeGoas prized locally grown onionsbut these once-ubiquitous kitchen staples have now become a rare sight in village markets and roadside stalls. With fewer farmers cultivating this traditional variety, gaothi kande are gradually being replaced by cheaper, readily available onions from outside the state. The []
Govt to address MSME supply woes with April 11 buyer-seller meet
Staff Reporter Panaji With over 60,000 registered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state and many among them facing difficulty in supplying components and equipments to large companies the government announced a buyer-seller meet on April 11, for large and small industry to come together and do business. The buyer and seller meet []
NSO fast-tracks data: Survey results in 3 months, says director general
Staff Reporter Panaji In a positive news to policy makers, results of different National Statistics Office (NSO) surveys will henceforth be disclosed within three months, said NSS, Director General, Geeta Singh Rathore, on Tuesday. Rathore said that, the decision to publish survey findings within a timeline is one of the decisions taken during the 18thnational []
IPL online betting racket busted in Goa, 3 Telangana natives held
Panaji: Three natives of Telangana have been arrested in Goa for allegedly operating a racket accepting bets online on the ongoing IPL cricket matches, police said on Saturday, April 5. The crime branch raided an apartment in the Porvorim locality near here late on Friday night and caught the accused red-handed, a police spokesperson said. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
11,000 kg of gunpowder illegally stored at firm's blast-hit godown in Goa: Police
PANAJI: Investigation into a fire-triggered blast at the warehouse of a private small calibre ammunition making factory in South Goa last week has indicated that nearly 11,000 kg of gunpowder was illegally stored at the facility, police said. In a media statement on Wednesday, a police spokesperson said around 11,000 kg of gunpowder was stored in one of the magazines without obtaining the requisite licence from authorities by M/s Hughes Precision Manufacturing Pvt Ltd, which owned the factory. The fire at the warehouse, stocked with explosives, sparked a massive explosion destroying 14.5 tonnes of gunpowder, police earlier said on March 21. No casualty was reported in the incident which occurred at around 10.30 pm on March 20 on the premises of M/s Hughes Precision in Naqueri-Betul village in South Goa. The blast, however, created cracks in the houses of people living nearby. A manufacturing plant of the company is located at Verna Industrial Estate in South Goa. The police said a complaint against the firm was filed by South Goa Deputy Collector based in Quepem town, accusing the management and other staff of not complying with standing instructions or guidelines issued by authorities during the grant of licence for transportation, storing of propellant (gunpowder). This non-compliance with guidelines led to the fire incident, according to the complaint. The spokesperson said the police inquiry conducted so far has indicated the company stored 11,000 kilograms of gunpowder without obtaining permission from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The PESO later suspended the company's licence to store gunpowder at the warehouse. The Cuncolim police, conducting the probe, have booked the company management officials under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions related to endangering human life or personal safety, and causing damage to property.
Coastal belt, bus stands, rail stns on police radar for drugs
Panaji: The Anti Narcotics Cell (ANC) of the Goa police, as part of its efforts to crackdown on drug menace, is conducting surprise checks with the help of a police sniffer dog along the coastal belt as well as at the interstate bus stands and railway stations. SP ANC Tikam Singh Verma said that the []
GRE seeks stricter rules to curb illegal fishing activities
Panaji: Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott (GRE) has urged the state government to make amendments to the Goa, Daman and Diu Marine Fishing Regulation Act of 1980, mainly to combat illegal fishing activities effectively. GRE on Wednesday submitted a memorandum to the Fisheries Department with their demands. We urge you to bring more stringent amendments to the []
Lazy Boys emerge Goa Handball League champions
Staff Reporter Panaji Lazy Boys etched their name in history, clinching the Goa Handball League 5.0 title in debut season. Organized by the Goa Handball Academy, the tournament featured six fiercely competitive teams, but it was Lazy Boys who emerged as the standout force, showcasing grit, resilience, and exceptional team spirit. Led by their captain []
In Goa, over 50k women in SHGs under Central scheme: Union Min
Staff Reporter Panaji Over 50,000 women in the state have been included in Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the Deendayal AntyodayaYojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) scheme of the Centre. The scheme is a flagship poverty alleviation programme of the Government of India and is one of the worlds largest initiatives to improve the livelihoods of []
Now, aggregator taxis can rely on apps to calculate fares, issue receipts
Staff Reporter Panaji The state government has amended its Motor Vehicles Rules to recognise mobile applications as legitimate fare meters for taxi services. The notification, published on Thursday, marks a major shift in how ride-hailing services can operate in the popular tourist destination. The new rules, effective immediately, eliminate the mandatory requirement for physical printers []
AI Hackathon 2025 to boost mineral discovery
Staff Reporter Panaji Startups in the state aswell as entrepreneurs, students from the Goa Engineering College, Farmagudi and private engineering colleges are being invited to participate in the mining ministry promotedAI Hackathon 2025,a mineral hackathon focused on critical minerals using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The hackathon is aimed at fostering innovation in exploration, processing, research and []
Bribery allegations by Madkaikar are lies, says BJP natl gen secy
Special Correspondent Panaji Dismissing the bribery allegation levelled by the former BJP minister, Pandurang Madkaikar against the state cabinet ministers, the National BJP general secretary, Arun Singh on Thursday said that Madkaikar is a liar and that under the leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant there is no corruption. This statement comes amidst allegations by []
Restore drainage system along Porvorim flyover site: Plea in HC
Panaji: A petition filed before the High Court of Bombay at Goa by Moses Pinto has raised concerns over the lack of a proper drainage system at the Porvorim flyover construction site, urging urgent intervention by authorities and the project contractor. The petitioner has stated that the existing drainage system has been filled with mud []
FIR against Kankonkar over swami comment
Panaji: Police registered an FIR against activist Rama Kankonkar for allegedly hurting religious sentiments after he posted a video on social media against a religious leader. Several followers of Sadguru Brahmeshanandacharya Swami Maharaj, gathered at the Panaji police station late Wednesday evening demanding for his arrest. They also filed a complaint against Kankonkar for making []
Undergo regular screenings for early detection of kidney diseases: Doctors
Padmavati Prabhu Panaji: This year on World Kidney Day, doctors have advised that at-risk individuals undergo regular screenings for early detection of kidney diseases, enabling patients to lead longer lives even with the condition. Kidney diseases in the risk populations can be detected through urine tests and blood examinations. The urine examination is conducted to []
Goan youth rescued from Myanmar scam returns
Panaji: An engineering graduate from Goa, who was lured on the promise of job opportunity in Southeast Asian countries and made to indulge in cybercrime and other fraudulent activities has been repatriated. The Goan youth was brought back to the state on Tuesday night by a cyber crime police team, said Cyber Crime SP, Rahul []
Congress cannot be trusted: Atishi says AAP wont enter alliance for 2027 Goa polls, party replies
PANAJI : Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Monday said that the party would contest the 2027 elections in Goa and Gujarat alone without opting for an alliance with Congress. The former Delhi chief minister was on a day-long visit to the coastal state to inaugurate the party's office in Margao. Talking to reporters, Atishi said, We are getting ready to contest the elections (Goa and Gujarat) on our own. Till now, there are no talks of an alliance. On reasons for ruling out an alliance with the Congress, Atishi said it was very clear that Congress cannot be trusted. She said that the people of Goa voted the BJP to power in 2022, but at the same time, the Congress won 11 seats, and 8 of its MLAs later joined the saffron party. The Congress is the main opposition party with only three MLAs, and AAP has two legislators, she said. Atishi said, When the two AAP candidates won the 2022 elections, there were rumours that they would not survive in the party even for two months. But they are still with the party because they have not come to make money from politics. Asked if the AAP is not interested in an alliance with like-minded parties, she said. When eight out of 11 MLAs join the BJP, what is like-minded? The AAP has shown that our two MLAs got elected and are still standing with the party. The BJP also tried to lure our MLAs. We are not interested in politics where winning elections and making money is the sole aim. Our interest in politics is to deliver for the people, she said. Speaking about the party's loss in the Delhi assembly polls, Atishi said that the question is not what will happen to the AAP but what will happen to the people of Delhi. BJP has already announced that they will close 250 Mohalla clinics. They have already announced that they will stop free medicine, she said. She said party leader Arvind Kejriwal had warned that if AAP loses, power cuts will start, the quality of education will again become bad in government schools, and this is already happening. Systematically, the works of the AAP government were stopped. If you look at the Delhi elections, from manipulation to misuse of machinery and intimidation of voters, they tried everything. Delhi has never seen this kind of election. But despite all this, there was only a 2 per cent difference between BJP and AAP, she said. Atishi alleged that the BJP has not fulfilled its elections promise of providing Rs 2,500 to the women of Delhi. The prime minister had assured that on March 8, on Women's Day, all women will get the first instalment in their bank account. Forget about getting the instalment, the registration for the scheme has even not started, she claimed. It goes to show that BJP has no intention of delivering on the promises they made, she said. Meanwhile, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Patkar said it is pre-mature to discuss about the alliance at this point of time. It is premature to discuss about the alliance, two years ahead of the elections. The prime focus of all the parties is to strength their base in each constituency. The Congress has started working in all 40 constituencies. We will expand our base, Patkar said, taking to PTI. AAP and Congress as well as other like-minded parties are already fighting as a united opposition in the assembly and raising issues of the people, he pointed out.
Man held with Rs 11.67 crore hydroponic weed in Goa; biggest drug haul in state
PANAJI: A man has been arrested in Goa for possessing hydroponic weed valued at Rs 11.67 crore, police said, claiming it is the biggest seizure of drugs in the history of the coastal state. The man was arrested on Saturday from Guirim village, located between Panaji and Mapusa cities, a police crime branch spokesperson said. We seized 11.672 kilograms of hydroponic weed valued at Rs 11.67 crore from him. This is biggest seizure of drugs in Goa's history. He has been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, the spokesperson said. Hailing the police, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in a post on X on Saturday said, Congratulations to the Crime Branch Goa Police for Goa's Biggest-Ever Drug Bust! In a major breakthrough, the Crime Branch has successfully busted a drug racket, arresting an individual in possession of 11.672 kg of hydroponic weed worth Rs 11.67 crores. This is a testament to the relentless efforts of our law enforcement agencies in keeping our state drug-free, he said. The Goa government remains committed to a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, the CM said, adding that intelligence networks will be strengthened and surveillance enhanced to crack down on such crimes to safeguard the youth and society. Hydroponics is a type of cultivation without soil in an artificial environment by using water-based mineral nutrient solutions.
Rs 25 crore for bldg wont cover dues: Mapusa bank depositors
Staff Reporter Panaji Amid the state governments move to take over the erstwhile Mapusa Urban Cooperative Banks head office building Nandadeep for Rs 25 crore, there is no sign of closure of the liquidation proceedings for the beleaguered depositors with deposits valued atRs 71.7 crore remaining unpaid as of date. Depositors on Friday told The []
Goa CM to head GST councils revenue analysis panel
Staff Reporter Panaji The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has reconstituted its Group of Ministers (GoM) on the Analysis of revenue from GST, appointing Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant as the convenor of the panel. The GoM includes Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, Chhattisgarh Finance Minister O P Choudhary, Gujarat Finance and Energy []
Join govts work-from-home initiative, CM urges women
Special Correspondent Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday appealed to the Goan women having good communication skills to enrol in the governments work-from-home initiative. We have partnered with Reliance Jio to make this possible and so far, 50 per cent of women have been selected for this scheme at the job fair in Sankhali, []
Liberation protagonist Evagrio Jorge honoured at birth centenary celebration
Staff Reporter Panaji Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) on Thursday celebrated the birth centenary of Evagrio Francisco Jorge at his residence in Carmona, honouring the life and legacy of the distinguished freedom fighter, writer,and editor. Born on March 6, 1925, in Carmona, South Goa, Jorge was a staunch opponent of Portuguese rule and actively participated in []
Congress demands Ranes ouster for mass land conversions
Staff Reporter Panaji Stating that land converted between March 2023 and July 2024, was 10 times more than the land converted during 1986-2005, Congress on Friday demanded the sacking of Town and Country Planning (TCP) Minister Vishwajit Rane and Chief Town PlannerRajesh Naik. GPCC president Sunil Kawthankar blamed Rane for the mass land conversions that []
Unauthorised pre-primary schools under scanner
Special Correspondent Panaji Appealing to the parents not to enrol their children in unrecognised pre-primary nursery, kindergarten I and Kindergarten II schools, the directorate of education (DoE) on Friday said it will conduct a survey to check the legal status of such schools running around the state. The DoE also warned those running []
'Ministers busy counting money': Goa BJP leader accuses own government of corruption, incompetence
Former Goa minister and BJP leader Pandurang Madaikar on Thursday slammed his own government as corrupt and incompetent after a minister allegedly took a bribe from him. Stating that no work happens under the Pramod Sawant-led government, Madaikar alleged that all the ministers are usy counting money. Loot is going on.Nothing is moving. They are only busy counting money. All ministers are busy counting money. Nothing is happening in Goa, Madaikar said. Speaking to reporters after a one-on-one meeting with BJP national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh in Panaji,Madaikar alleged that a minister from the Sawant-headed cabinet had taken a hefty bribe from him to complete a small work. I was also a minister, so I know very well how ministers work in the government. I gave Rs 15 to 20 lakh to a minister for a small work. But he has not done my work yet. He kept my file pending. Whenever I tried to contact him, he refused to do his work to meet us, India Today reported Madaikar as saying. However, Madaikar refused to name the minister to whom he had to pay the bribe but told reporters that the name would be revealed when he leaves the party. In response, Goa Chief Minister Sawant, without denying the charges levelled against his government by Madaikar, asked him to name the minister. He has not made an allegation against me. Ask him [who the minister is], The Wire reported the CM as saying. Madaikar's statements instigated sharp criticism from the opposition parties with Congress demanding an official clarification from the CM. It is a serious charge by their party colleague. Others who continue to be ministers have levelled allegations of corruption. This is not to be taken lightly. This allegation has to be seriously looked into. There needs to be an inquiry, said Congress leader YuriAlemao, reported Hindustan Times. Madkaikar served as the Minister for Power, Social Welfare and Non-Conventional Energy in the Manohar Parrikar ministryfrom 2017 to 2018. His wife contested the 2022 Assembly polls on a BJP ticket, but lost to the opposition Congress candidateRajesh Faldessai.
Couple held in Goa for killing five-year-old girl on occult practitioner's advice
PANAJI: A couple has been arrested in Goa for allegedly killing a five-year-old girl from their neighbourhood and burying the body in their backyard, an official said on Friday. The accused Babasaheb Alar (52) and his wife Pooja (45) have told the police that an occult practitioner had advised them to sacrifice a kid to end their woes, the official said. Deputy Superintendent of Police (Ponda) Shivram Vaigankar told reporters that the parents of the child had complained that she went missing on Wednesday. CCTV footage showed that the kid entered the house of the accused but did not come out, said Vaigankar. During interrogation, the childless couple confessed to killing the girl on the advice of a person practising black magic, he said. The couple believed that sacrificing a child would bring an end to their problems, the official added. They also told police that they had buried the body in their compound. The couple have been booked for murder and destruction of evidence,
30% preference for women in industrial plot allotment
Staff Reporter Panaji Industries Minister Mauvin Godinho on Wednesday announced that women entrepreneurs in the state will henceforth get 30 per cent preference in the allotment of industrial plots with the government keen on encouraging more Goan women in business. Godinho said the government has decided to give priority to women applicants for small plots []
Roll back decision on school reopening in April
Special Correspondent Panaji A delegation comprising parents and members of parent-teachers associations (PTAs) from various schools around Goa on Wednesday met the education secretary Prasad Lolyekar demanding that the decision to start the academic year 2025-26 from April 1 be rolled back and instead, the schools reopen during the first week of June as per []
Study finds microplastics in mackerels, mullets
Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji A three-year study conducted in Goa has pointed to the concerning levels of microplastic pollution in two commercially significant fish species, the Indian mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) and the mullet (Mugil cephalus). Both fish varieties are consumed in Goa, making them critical indicators of microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems. The study findings []
Opposition demands probe into ex-ministers corruption claims
Staff Reporter Panaji/Margao Opposition legislators called on law enforcement agencies, including the police, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and Vigilance Department, to investigate corruption allegations made by former minister and ex-Cumbharjua MLA Pandurang Madkaikar. Madkaikar, who is presently in BJP, claimed on Tuesday that corruption is rampant in the government, alleging he was asked to pay nearly []
BJP natl gen secy reviews govt functioning during Goa visit
Special Correspondent Panaji BJP national general secretary (organisation) B L Santhosh, who had visited Goa on Tuesday, met a number of state office bearers of the party, besides the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and the state BJP president Damodar Naik and reviewed the functioning of the party and the state administration. Later, Naik said that []
Varun Albuquerque conferred Honorary Consul of Russia
Staff Reporter Panaji Varun Albuquerque (39) has been conferred as the Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation inGoa. Albuquerque is a Director of the Alcon Victor Group that has diverse business interests ranging from real estate development to hospitality and healthcare. The notification on February 12 in the Gazette of India states that the President []
Govt will rebuild Porvorim temple at site chosen by devotees: CM
Staff Reporter Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday said the government is ready to reconstruct Porvorims Dev Khapreshwar temple at a location decided by either a committee or the devotees. The temple was recently demolished under strong opposition by locals and devotees to facilitate the construction of the elevated corridor at Porvorim. Porvorim MLA []
Porvorim flyover: Temple demolition triggers protest
Staff Reporter Panaji Porvorim witnessed tension through the day on Sunday as the authorities began demolition of the Dev Khapreshwar temple while translocating the massive heritage banyan tree at Vadakode along the highway NH66. Devotees and others protested in large numbers even as the police had a tough time to assuage the feelings of the []
Goas endangered species take centrestage at Carnival
Staff Reporter Panaji Protecting some of Goas endangered species was one of the focal points of this years vibrant Carnival float parade held in Panaji on Saturday. Tableaus from across Goa showcased the rich culture, heritage and traditions that define the state. Addressing the crowd, King Momo thanked and welcomed everyone in attendance. I want []
Communicate decision on Mormugao flyover, High Court tells Navy
Staff Reporter Panaji Disposing of a petition challenging the construction of the Mormugao flyover, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the Navy to communicate its decision on the project tothe authorities. The petition was filed by retired Indian Navy Officer, Cdr Atul Pant in public interest stating that the flyover comes within []
Tourists offenders in most rented vehicle cases booked in 14 mnths
Staff Reporter Panaji Over the last 14 months, Goa traffic police have booked over 27,000 violations committed by motorists using rent-a-car/bike, with majority of the violators being tourists, said a senior police officer. The officer said a total of 27,774 traffic rule violations related to rented cars/bikes were reported between January 2024 and February 2025. []
Study identifies 17 new hover fly species in Goas protected areas
Bhiva Parab Panaji A study has recorded 19 species of hoverflies in Goas protected areas, with 17 species and 12 genera being newly reported for the state. Hoverflies, also known as flower flies, play a crucial ecological role as key pollinators of both, wild and cultivated flora. The survey, conducted between March 2023 and March []
Staff Reporter Panaji Dempo SC will aim to return to winning ways when they take on Delhi FC in an I-League 2024-25 away fixture at the Mahilpur Football Stadium, Punjab, today. The Golden Eagles come into this encounter on the back of a heartbreaking 2-3 defeat at home to Sreenidi Deccan. Marcus Joseph continued his []
Remarks on Shivaji Maharaj: Bajrang Dal protests against Konkani writer
Panaji: Bajrang Dal activists protested outside the residence of Konkani writer Uday Bhembre over his statement about Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his links with Goa. A group of activists staged a peaceful protest outside the 87-year-old writers residence in Margao city of South Goa on Friday evening, condemning his video titled Jagor, uploaded Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Parents across Goa oppose start of academic year in April
Submit memorandum to Education director Special Correspondent Panaji: Parents of school students from across the state on Thursday submitted a memorandum to director of education Shailesh Zingade stating that they want the new academic year to begin from the first week of June as was done all these years, and not from April 1. Stating []
Apply online through Centres portal to use electricity poles
Goa site on Gati Shakti non-functional: ISPs Panaji: In a bid to arrive at a solution to the issue of unauthorised installation of cables by internet service providers (ISPs) and cable operators on electricity poles, the government on Thursday directed all the telecom service providers and ISPs registered in the state to apply online through []
Goas e-waste generation sees alarming 7-fold rise in decade
Shoma Patnaik Panaji: With a high penetration of electrical and electronic equipment across different economic groups, Goas e-waste generation has increased seven-fold in the last decade, according to the governments latest inventory of e-waste. The inventory reveals that the state presently generates close to 7,000 tonnes per annum of e-waste as compared to 1,000 tonnes []
Goas red relic rips Gurugram: Vintage Mini Minor wins honour
Ramnath N Pai Raikar Panaji: The red coloured 1959 Mini Minor model of Morris car owned by Goan vintage car enthusiast Milind Angle has won an award in the Maharaja category at the 11th edition of the 21 Gun Salute Concours dElegance, which recently concluded in Gurugram. The event was held from February 21 to []
Goa partners with NSE on skilling programme in finance
Panaji: Goa on Thursday became the fifth state to collaborate with the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) on youth skilling, following Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, and Assam. The state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NSE to launch the Student Skilling Program, aimed at equipping Goas youth with industry-relevant skills in the Banking, []
Compared to last yr, 28% dip in fatal accidents since Jan
Panaji: Police authorities have registered a 28 per cent drop in fatal road accidents in the first two months this year compared to the corresponding period last year. Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Kumar attributed this achievement to the police who have been focussing on quality prosecution, which has had a direct bearing on []
Haokip treble trembles Panjim Footballers
Guardian Angel ease past Pax of Nagoa 4-2 Benaulim/ Nagoa: Churchill Brothers and Guardian Angel secured wins in their respective matches in the Goa Professional League relegation zone on Thursday. At Benaulim ground, Churchill Brothers defeated Panjim Footballers 4-2. The deadlock was finally broken in the 50th minute when Alent Colaco played a precise through []
