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ALEXIO OUT, KAMAT & TAWADKAR JOIN PRAMOD CABINET
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ALEXIO OUT, KAMAT & TAWADKAR JOIN PRAMOD CABINET

Aug 23- Aug 29, 2025, WEEKEND UPDATES August 22, 2025 , by

ENVIRONMENT minister Alexio Sequeria who blackmailed the BJP in giving him a Cabinet berth, was asked to resign by the BJP High Command. Alexio Sequeira demanded a Cabinet berth as the price for joining the BJP along with eight other Congress MLAs. The people of his constituency showed their disapproval by voting against the BJP candidate for South Goa — Pallavi Dempo — in the Nuvem constituency represented by Alexio Sequeria.

Ever since there has been pressure on Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to sack Alexio. The environment minister has also been having major health problems and was not attending to his work for over three months. Digambar Kamat, who has been part of the original BJP gang even before Manohar Parrikar, has been lobbying very hard for a Cabinet berth.

The former chief minister has finally succeeded but will have to be content with minor portfolios like environment and law. This will probably help in meeting the challenge from Chirag Datta Naik who has decided to contest the next assembly election from Margao. Ramesh Tawadkar, the speaker of the Assembly has been crying for a Cabinet berth for a long time. Tawadakar has even openly hit out against Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.

Finally, the crying baby has been elevated to the Cabinet, taking the place of Govind Gaude, former art & culture minister who  was dropped from the Cabinet. We understand that Nilesh Cabral, who was forced to step down in favour of Alexio Sequeira, is now likely to be the next speaker of the Goa Assembly.

MUMBAI SINKING

NEW YORK is not the only city sinking. Even Mumbai is sinking. Unlike Goa, Mumbai, India’s commercial capital, has been under a red alert for some days now. Since the beginning of the week Mumbai has witnessed extremely heavy rainfall. To the extent that suburban train services, which are lifelines of Mumbai, have been totally disrupted. The famed Bombay metro has been one of the major casualties of the extremely heavy rains. On Tuesday, August 19 alone, Mumbai  reported over 300mm of rain in 24 hours. Over 500 commuters had to be rescued from an overcrowded metro train where they were stuck for more than two hours. Goa too got a drowning with the false ceiling of Peddem Stadium collapsing. The fishing season has been delayed due to the heavy rain and the late arrival of the migrant labor.

KAMAT & TAWADKAR SWORN IN

GOVERNOR of Goa Pusapati Ashok Ganapathi Raju in the presence of Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant administered the oath of office and secrecy to former chief minister of Goa and Margao MLA Digambar Kamat and Ramesh Tawadkar, MLA of Margao and Canacona, respectively, in a ceremony at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Dona Paula, on  August 21, 2025. 

The function was attended by Panchayat Minister Mauvin Godinho, Minister for Water Resources  Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Health Vishwajit Rane, Minister for Social Welfare  Subhash Phaldesai, Minister for Power  Ramkrishna alias Sudin Dhavlikar, MLA Nilesh Cabral, Dr Deviya Rane,  Jeet Arolkar, Pravin Arlekar, Rudolf Fernandes,  Premendra Shet,  Sankalp Amonkar, Daji Salkar, secretaries to government, senior government officials and prominent citizens. 

MADRASAS UNDER ATTACK

THE Muslim minority community continues to be targeted in the state. The latest incident is the raid carried out on a madrasa that was reportedly operating illegally in the Rumdamol Housing Board close to Margao. The police claimed that they rescued 17 children from Goa, Karnataka and Bihar, who were allegedly found without proper identification documentation. Madrasas are schools run by the Muslim community primarily imparting religious education. The police claim to be acting on complaints from local RSS groups.

The police claim is that none of the 17 children had an Aadhar card. This reminds us of the targeting of madrasas run by the Muslim community at Guddemol Curchorem over two decades ago. It may be recalled that Hindutva elements had then spread rumours that a large number of Muslims from Karnataka had entered with swords and other weapons. This led to the only communal riot that took place in Goa since Liberation.

ONLINE GAMBLING BANNED

SOCIAL  media and even WhatsApp are full of real money gambling sites which induce you to try your luck in winning a fortune. None of this gambling sites are registered. A distinction has to be made between online social games that don’t involve exchange of money and games which promote active gambling online. I have personally received messages claiming that I have won not Rs2,000 but $42,000 and inviting me to continue to roll the dice or spin a wheel to make more money. All these are scams but many are tempted by the lure of making money. A new bill is being moved in parliament to strictly regulate online gambling. Stiff fines of up to Rs50 lakh are being proposed for promoters of online games and others who advertise them. Banks involved in online games also face fines and up to three years in jail.

FIGHT FOR VICE PRESIDENT

FOLLOWING the sudden resignation of Jagdeep Dhankar as a vice president, the race is on for choosing a new vice president. The BJP candidate is Radhakrishna, a backward class leader from Tamil Nadu, who is now the governor of Maharashtra. The NDA and the Opposition parties have proposed the name of Sudarshan Reddy who was the former SC judge and first Lokayukta of Goa. Reddy is a lawyer who is on the international arbitration centre. It is likely to be an easy victory for the BJP candidate as they have the majority in Parliament.

STEP FORWARD FOR KONKANI

GOAN members of Parliament can now speak in Konkani in the Lok Sabha. The speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla has announced that simultaneous translation is now available in Parliament from Konkani to English, Hindi and other languages. This is the first time Konkani has been given this status since it was made the official language of Goa.

SWADESHI ALTERNATIVE!

 THE  BJP government is now promoting Swadeshi goods made in India as  alternative to the products of big companies. The objective is to give a boost to the country’s traditional trades.  For instance, Aligarh has always been associated with locks and other metal handicrafts, much before Godrej started making locks.

 Similarly, Badaum is synonymous with zari-zardosa products. Bhadohi is a famous for its local brand of carpets. Lucknow is famous for chikenkaari and zari-zardosi. Meerat is the largest producer of sports goods. Varanasi and Tanjore are famous for traditional silk sarees worn at weddings.

 It’s time to think global but buy local. It may be recalled that a famous Italian luxury brand, Prada, had recently  unveiled the humble Kolhapuri chappal in its latest fashion show. This raised a hue and cry on the question of whose copyright it is!

 COMPETITIONS FOR GOVERNMENT SCHOOL PRIMARY STUDENTS

ACCORDING Pratapananda Naik, sg, co-ordinator, 3L Mission students conducted English handwriting and Kannada handwriting competitions in two phases on August 18 and 19 to 4th standard students of Government Primary School, Ramdas Panaji. Eleven students took part in the first round. Four students from each competition were selected. On Aug 19 they appeared for the second round.

In the English handwriting competition Preeti Pujar stood first and Ankita Lamani second. In the Kannada handwriting competition Ankita Lamani  was the only winner. The winners will be given gold and silver medals with certificates when all the competitions are over in the month of March 2026.

SANITATION FACILITIES MALIM JETTY

  THE government intends to provide adequate infrastructure at various jetties in the state in order to address the issue of hygiene and sanitation, said Minister for Fisheries Nilkanth Halarnkar, at the inauguration of the upgradation and  construction  of jetties for anchoring trawelers of fisher folk at Malim jetty, Porvorim on August 18, 2025.

   The government has undertaken several significant initiatives to enhance facilities at the Malim Jetty in support of the local fishing community. In terms of sanitation, a 13-seater toilet block is already operational at the site and is being maintained by Sulabh International. Additionally, a new 20-seater toilet block has been constructed.  Furthermore, the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) has awarded the work order for the remaining development works at the jetty. These are scheduled for completion by July 2026. This new facility will also be maintained by Sulabh International.

Malim Jetty is an important jetty where fishermen are conducting their fishing activities. Minister Harlankar  appreciated the cooperation extended by GSIDC due to which this project has materialized and he appealed to stakeholders to maintain the said project.

Minister for Tourism Rohan Khaunte in his address said that the toilet block facility was a long time demand and he appreciated the endeavour of the minister of fisheries. Others who spoke and were present included MLA & Vice-Chairman of GSIDC Kedar Naik, Kavita Naik, Ex- ZP Member,  Gupesh Naik, Secretary Fisheries  Prasann Acharya, IAS, Director of Fisheries Dr Sharmila Monteiro, Chairman Mandovi Fishermen Marketing Society, Malim Jetty,  Francisco D Souza, Controller Sulabh International,  Sushil Kumar.

INDIA’S CULTURE ROOTED IN ANCIENT ART: KAMAT

Independence Day celebrated at South District Headquarters

 MLA Digambar Kamat unfurled the national tricolour to celebrate 79th Independence Day at South Goa District Headquarters, Mathany Saldhana Administrative Complex, Margao, on August 15, 2025.

Addressing the gathering MLA Kamat paid his rich tribute and respect to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence. He said, when India became independent, many nations of the world said that India would never be able to remain united, but India’s culture, which has been rooted in ancient art, has kept India united and till date it is moving forward with a firm head on its path, to become the number one nation in the world.

He added that under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi India is on the path of all-round development. Other countries are watching with amazement the reputation India has gained in various fields and the journey of development in this field. The whole world wonders how India is moving forward.

Digambar Kamat added that the India’s  PM has left his mark on the world with his leadership. Keeping the common people in mind and recognizing their needs, he has launched various schemes and concessions and crores of Indians are benefiting from them today. Free rations are being provided to about 80 crore people under the Garib Kalyan Yojana by providing free food grains. Till date, 56.81% of the population is getting the benefit of this scheme. Through this scheme, India has become the first country that provides free rations to the largest number of people.

Ayushman Bharat, the health-related scheme, has become the largest government-funded health insurance scheme in the world. About 55 crore citizens from 12 crore families are getting the benefit of this scheme. Similarly, various schemes like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have become the largest public welfare schemes in the world, he added.

He said, the country has done many important works like Vocal for Local, development of facilities, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Operation Sindoor, Vande Bharat Train digitalization and use of technology in every field. The government is working to help women to achieve financial well-being.

Following in the footsteps of the Prime Minister is Chief Minister of Goa Dr Pramod Sawant, who is also doing excellent work by keeping the goal of all-round development of the State and its people in mind. The Swayampurna Goa movement has also become important. Citizens are getting benefits under various schemes like Mukhyamantri Rozgar Yojana, Mhaje Ghar Yojana, Grih Aadhaar, Ladli Laxmi, Kisan Credit Card, Atal Aasra Yojana, and Health Scheme.

The government has done important works like Permanent Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Center and Pradhan Mantri Divya Nasu Divyanshu Kendra. If everyone recognizes their responsibility and contributes to the development of the State and the country, then a self-sufficient Goa and a self-reliant India will soon emerge, Kamat said. He appealed to people to work together day and night to take Goa to the heights of development. He urged to get education, maintain health and preserve identity and keep feet on the ground, while aiming for the sky.

On his arrival the Margao MLA was  received by South Goa District Collector, Egna Cleetus, IAS and Superintendent of Police, South District, IPS, Tikam Singh Verma. He took the guard of honour given by the police contingent and also inspected the police and Home Guard parade. The Fire and Emergency Services band played the National anthem. MLAs  Alexio Reginaldo Lourenco and Ulhas Tuyekar; Chairperson, Margao Municipal Council,  Damodar Shirodkar; councillors, Additional Collector I, Srinet Kothwale; Additional Collector II, Ramesh Gaonkar; Deputy Superintendent of Police,  Rajendra Prabhudessai; Police Inspector, Margao,  Suraj Samant; Deputy Collectors, Mamlatdar and other senior officers of South Goa District Administration were among those present on the occasion. 

Students of Our Lady of Rosary High School, Fatorda; Lt Vinayak Shenvi High School, Rawanfond and Mae Dos Pobres High School, Nuvem presented patriotic songs.

GOVERNMENT’S QUICK  RESPONSE FOR 80-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN DISTRESS

  HERE is an example of Antyodaya Tatva in action! A recent news report highlighted the plight of an 80-year-old woman in Nirankal, Shiroda constituency,  who was living in a dilapidated, unsafe house. Her story is now transformed into one of hope and reassurance — thanks to the swift of government authorities.

Samati Datta Gawde Velip, a widow with no close family support, had been struggling for years in a house with a roof falling apart, surviving only on meagre income. Well, Deputy Collector and Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ponda,  Shubham Naik, upon being informed about it immediately took cognizance and ensured that the widow’s plight was redressed.  

At first  the senior citizen was hesitant and unsure about availing institutional help. However, once the administration personally approached and explained the available support, she confidently agreed to leave her  unsafe home and accept the assistance offered to her.

Further reporting confirms the dilapidated condition of her house and absence of close relatives. Recognizing the urgency the Deputy Collector personally coordinated with Director of Provedoria, Vinayak Volvoikar, to arrange immediate accommodation for her in an old-age home, and with the Health Officer of PHC Shiroda, Dr Seema Fondekar, asked to conduct a medical examination to issue the necessary certificate for admission.

Shubham Naik personally visited the elderly citizen’s residence to ensure her safe transport, and arranged for a police escort so that she was  accompanied with dignity and security. Within 24 hours she was successfully admitted to the Provedoria-run Old Age Home at Chinchinim. Here she was reassured and received the  compassionate care she needed.

The Directorate of Social Welfare will process her entitlements under welfare schemes, ensuring both immediate rehabilitation and long-term relief. This case is a shining example of how government institutions, when working in unison and empathy, can transform  the lives of ordinary people living in critical conditions. The rapid and humane response by the Office of the Deputy Collector, Provedoria, Police, Health Department, and Directorate of Social Welfare ensured that an elderly woman in distress was not left unattended.

This is the action which embodies the principle of Antyodaya Tatva championed by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, ensuring that the last and most vulnerable citizen is not only reached but also uplifted. What started as a tale of despair is now a narrative of restoring dignity — proving that while challenges exist, the government’s proactive and compassionate response can truly make a difference.

GOA IS HARD HIT BY INVESTMENT SCAMS!

GOA is hard hit by investment scams happening due to unsolicited social media groups. This was the message of Police Inspector of Cyber Crime-GOA Vidyadnand Pawar, while speaking during a “Knockout Digital Fraud Awareness” program in Goa on August 14, 2025.

The awareness drive in Mapusa is part of Bajaj Finance’s 100-city cyber security program to inform citizens and college students about different types of cyber and digital frauds, and ways to safeguard one’s digital assets from fraudsters

 Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL) is India’s largest Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) in the private sector, and part of Bajaj Finserv. What it did was conduct a cyber fraud awareness program in Goa (Mapusa) — Knockout Digital Fraud — to inform digital users about different types of threats, and best practices to safeguard finances.

 The program is in alignment  with the Reserve Bank of India’s 2024 guidelines on Fraud Risk Management for NBFCs, which emphasises early detection, staff accountability, and public engagement to make the digital ecosystem safer for everyone.

 Police Inspector Cyber Crime-Goa Vidyadnand Pawar educated,   “There are three main reasons behind the digital and online scams happening due to lack of awareness, greed and fear. Thousands of people are scammed daily and crores of rupees are lost and this number is rising. Goa has seen maximum scams in investment and digital arrest.”

He added, “Another scam which is very prevalent is online gaming and through Chinese apps,” and warned parents to keep a watch on their wards, they should not hand over their mobile phones to their children. 

Sharing views during the program was  Santosh Patkar (principal, Sridora Caculo College of Commerce & Management Studies, Khorlim, Mapusa) who said, “Digital and cyber frauds have become very common, and we keep reading in newspapers about it; mostly cyber fraudsters target senior citizens who are very vulnerable and most of the digitally literate people fall prey to these scamsters. There is a lot of need for awareness on cyber and digital fraud today and students are the future of digital economy, who need to be made aware of all these scams.” He also thanked  Bajaj Finance for organizing the initiative in the college and looked forward to many more such awareness drives in nearby educational colleges.

A BFL spokesperson speaking on the occasion observed, “The financial safety of our consumers is paramount to us. We are constantly issuing online and offline advisories on social media platforms, as well as through on-ground interactions with citizens, encouraging everyone to be cyber safe.”

 Guests and dignitaries who attended the event included Vice-Principal Smruti Borkar, Asst Professors Ruta Kenkare, Poonam Navelker, Kavir Shirodkar,  Guruprasad Namshikar and other college staff members. Knockout Digital Fraud offered the cyber community valuable safety tips on safeguarding personal and sensitive information. This includes refraining from sharing OTPs, PINs, clicking on suspicious emails, SMSs, links, QR codes and downloading applications from unknown sources. It includes a series of interactive workshops, digital awareness drives, and community outreach programs across major cities and towns.

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