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WEEKEND UPDATES

July 18- July 24, 2026, WEEKEND UPDATES July 17, 2026 , by

US-IRAN WAR INTENSIFIES

THE Strait of Homruz has been shut down again. In addition, the Red sea pathway transporting crude petroleum and gas has also been clocked.  This is in protest against the US firing at Iranian ships. Indian seafarers are caught in the middle of all this. It is estimated that almost half the sailors on merchant vessels including tankers carrying petrol and gas are Indian nationals. So far almost 50 Indian crewmen have died in the ongoing hostilities. The price of crude is again climbed over $100 a barrel. Be prepared for further increases in the price of your domestic gas cylinder.

WORLD EMOJI DAY

THERE is one more addition to the list of international event days. The latest of course is the World Emoji Day. This refers all the Namastes and Hearts and Smilies that are universal on Facebook and WhatsApp messages. The most confusing is the Namaste icon. We have never been able to make out if it means thanks for favors received or sorry, I cannot help you. Nobody claps now or smiles. They only send you claps and smiles in real life. You have to be content with claps and smiles and love digitally. The extent of love is denoted by the number and size of the red hearts.

MINING SCAM ACCUSED GOES SCOTT FREE

THE Bombay high court has reportedly squashed all the first information reports filed in the Rs35crore mining scam. It may be recalled that on the basis of the Supreme Court judgement on the petition by Goa Foundation the mining leases in Goa had been cancelled in 2009. Subsequently, the then chief minister, Manohar Parrikar, cancelled all the mining leases and banned all mining activity. The main charge against former chief ministers Pratapsingh Rane and Digambar Kamat and the mine owners was that they were operating the mines illegally. An order of the Ministry of Mines mandated that all the mining concessions awarded by the Portuguese time government be converted into mining leases. By virtue of the order issued in June 1987. In the wake of the huge increase in the price and demand from China for Goan ore, many mine owners restarted their mines without permission. Rane and Digambar condoned the delay in converting the leases and retrospectively converted the concessions into leases. This was considered illegal and it led to profits by mining companies to the extent of Rs35,000crore. Now all the cases against the mine owners and the politicians have been withdrawn.

SUNPARK RESORTS IN CALANGUTE

THE high court of Bombay has served notice to the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority over the 150-room Sunpark Resorts in Calangute. Apparently, the entire gigantic structure was within the banned area of the coastal regulation zone. The high court has directed the coastal authorities to demolish the resort within 50meters of the high tideline. The high court has also ordered the demolition of several hotels and restaurants built very close to the turtle nesting site in Morgim.

NEET EXAM RESULTS ANNOUNCED

THE re-test of the medical entrance exam for admission to MBBS and other medical courses was held about a month ago. The results were announced very late in the evening around 10pm on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Presumably, this was done so print media could not carry any detailed report on the results. It was flashed by the electronic media around 10.30pm. The results indicate that 11lakh students have qualified with 13 of them getting 715 marks out of 750. The question is not of how many passed the exams. Unless you are within the first 2,000 ranking you have very little hope of getting into a government medical college. The fees in private medical colleges range from Rs50lakh to Rs5crore. Studying medicine in Georgia is a much cheaper option.

BRAINDRAIN AT ISRO

THE Indian Space Research Organisation is a premier scientific institution. ISRO under the late Abdul Kalam had launched thousands of communication satellites.  ISRO landed a lunar explorer on the moon and its Mangalam spacecraft to Mars is half way there currently. India in fact is launching satellites for many other countries now.   Ironically, the United States of MAGA is stealing ISRO scientists. There is great concern for the fact that over 100 ISRO scientists have quit to join NASA and other space research organizations in Russia and Japan. Incidentally, the American Reserve Bank called the Federal Reserve has appointed three economists of Indian origin to rescue the US economy. These include Raghuram Rajan who was the RBI governor, Rohit Shetty, a Harvard economist, and Asha Sharma who is the CEO of Microsoft.

KONKANI MOGI SORT OUT DIFFERENCES

PRESIDENT of Konkani Bhasha Mandal, Serafino Cota, met senior writer, entrepreneur and social activist Datta Damodar Naik along with executive committee members of Konkani Bhasha Mandal (KBM) and Akhil Bharatiya Konkani Parishad (ABKP) at the Konkani Bhavan in Margao, and decided to sort out internal differences. This is as per a  press note issued by Datta Damodar Naik.

“In response to Serafino Cota’s request, I am withdrawing my resignation as a primary member of Konkani Bhasha Mandal. After my article on Shenoi Goembab, Konkani Bhasha Mandal had denounced me publicly. They could have instead expressed their regret and written me a letter refuting the points written in the article. Konkani Bhasha Mandal is not a political party to resort to public denouncement. I am glad that Serafino Cota has respectfully acknowledged my contribution as a businessman, writer and social activist to the Konkani movement,” clarified Datta Damodar Naik.

He further added, “After Konkani Bhasha Mandal publicly denounced me, I had withdrawn the balance donation of Rs 1 Crore to Konkani Bhasha Mandal. My son Chirag Naik will decide whether this donation is to be continued in view of recent development and communicate to Konkani Bhasha Mandal by this weekend.”

DOCUMENATARY GETS UKRAINE AWARD

`Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri’ directed by Prachi Shirodkar, has been officially selected for the International Cultural Journal Award in Ukraine, marking an international milestone for regional storytelling and cultural preservation. Produced as a final-year Mass Communication project at Don Bosco College in Panjim, the documentary was directed, shot and narrated by Prachi Shirodkar while Mario Pimenta edited the documentary.

The film pays tribute to Goa’s traditional goldsmith community, capturing the craftsmanship, dedication, and cultural heritage behind handcrafted jewellery. Through the experiences of Pranay Shirodkar, Virendra Rivankar, and Rashila Shirodkar, it explores how generations of artisans continue to preserve centuries-old techniques while adapting to changing technologies, consumer preferences, and industry practices.

`Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri’ will be featured during the official red-carpet program at Uzhhorod Castle, one of western Ukraine’s most historic landmarks. Interestingly, the documentary has also been selected for educational screenings in more than 100 Ukrainian schools, including institutions serving communities near frontline regions, through the Cinema in Schools initiative in partnership with the Max Sir International Film Festival. The program introduces students to diverse cultural stories from around the world through cinema.

Organised in collaboration with the National Art Critics Association and the National Cinema Committee, the International Cultural Journal Award honours creative works that encourage cultural dialogue, artistic excellence, and global understanding. The international selection represents a proud achievement for filmmakers and for Goan cinema, to demonstrate how local stories can connect with audiences across cultures.

CHIEFTAINS UPRISING COMMEMORATION DAY

 MINISTER for Social Welfare, Subhash Phal Dessai, along with Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, paid rich tributes to the Chieftains Memorial at the State Level Chieftains Uprising Commemoration Day    on July 15, 2026  at Cuncolim.

While speaking the minister stated that the chieftains uprising of Cuncolim against colonial rule has great significance in history, as the movement ignited an urge among the native people to rebel against foreign rule. The memorial witnessed much enthusiasm and pride on this occasion along with freedom fighters, students and prominent residents of Cuncolim who had gathered to commemorate Cuncolim revolt against the colonial rule in 1583, wherein 16 chieftains had rebelled against the draconian tax structure imposed by the Portuguese on the people of Goa.

Subhash bab also said that the  Cuncolim Revolt could be recognized as the first rebel of locals against the suppression culture and tradition of the land by invaders. The history of the Cuncolim Revolt has to be cherished for future generations and so serious efforts are being made to produce a documentary on it. He appreciated Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant for his efforts to incorporate the history of the Cuncolim Revolt in the curriculum. The CM’s  commemoration of Chieftains Martyrs Day at national level by paying homage at National Memorial, Delhi was also praised.

With the Prime Minister’s “mantra of Vikasit Bharat” Goa is becoming “swayampurna.” India is the youngest country with 65% of its population below the age of 35, which is the most productive age. We have all the potential, capacity, ability, talent, intellectuals, we must chanellize our energy, strength and potential in a right perspective, he said.

Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao expressed satisfaction for incorporating history of Cuncolim Revolt in the history syllabus of Std 9th and Std 11th class and recalled various initiatives taken by him and trustees of the Chieftains of Cuncolim Trust towards incorporating history of Cuncolim Revolt 1583 in school syllabus — to create awareness among the student communities. Alemao said that this historical Cuncolim Revolt could be a first non-co-operation movement in Asia against foreign rule. It is one of the oldest revolt in Asia with a history of around 274 years.

Others who spoke on the occasion were President of the Goa Freedom Fighters Association Dad Dessai; President of Chieftains Memorial Trust Oscar Martins; Additional Collector Ramesh Gaonkar; Superintendent of Police-South  Tikam Singh Verma, IPS and Joint Secretary-Home Tushar Halarnkar. were present on the occasion. Superintendent of Police, Retired,  Santosh Dessai and  Dilip Dessai were felicitated with Cuncolim Shree award for their tremendous contribution towards social upliftment and upright service. Rajiv Dessai, Sairoj Dessai and Elba Noronha were felicitated with Cuncolim Jyoti award for their remarkable contribution in the field of education. Darshan Vatvankar was awarded with Cuncolim Mitra award.

Students of Bal Bhavan and Cuncolim United Higher Secondary welcomed everyone by singing patriotic songs and  Dad Dessai also spoke on the occasion. Vijay Kumar Kopre was the compere.

`TAJ’ HOSPITALITY INDIA’S STRONGEST BRAND


ON July 14, 2026 the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced that its iconic “Taj” brand is once again India’s strongest band across sectorson Brand Finance “India 100 2026” report. This marks the fifth consecutive year the brand has achieved the  distinction. 

IHCL MD and CEO Puneet Chhatwal observes, “Being recognised as India’s strongest brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year is a matter of immense pride. For over 120 years, Taj has remained an enduring symbol of Indian hospitality, staying rooted in its timeless values of warmth, authenticity and excellence. This recognition reflects the deep trust and emotional connection that generations of guests have placed in the brand, as well as the unwavering commitment of our associates who bring the spirit of ‘Tajness’to life every day through thoughtful service and genuine care.”

He added, “Founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1903, IHCL’s iconic brand Tajhas played a pioneering role in shaping India’s tourism landscape. Today, with a portfolio of 150 hotels across 15 countries, it offers a distinctive collection of grand palaces, landmark city hotels, wildlife safaris, beach and hill resorts and service residences. Guided by Paathya, IHCL’s ESG+ framework, the brand’s growth is anchored in responsible business practices that balance environmental stewardship, social impact and cultural preservation. As a custodian of Indian hospitality, Taj remains committed to creating long-term value while enriching destinations, empowering communities and preserving the heritage and traditions that define its legacy.”

As per Brand Finance ‘India 100 2026’report, Taj (brand value up 32% toUSD878 million) has retained its position as India’s strongest brand for the fifth consecutive year, achieving a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5/100and anAAA+ brand strength rating. 

David Haigh, Chairman, Brand Finance said, “Taj Hotels’ position as India’s strongest brand for the fifth consecutive year reflects the strength of its reputation and consistency of its brand performance. Brand Finance’s research shows exceptionally high levels of familiarity, preference, and understanding in its home market, underscoring the value of investing in a distinctive brand experience, maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, and delivering what guests value most. As Taj continues to expand its footprint across India and internationally, preserving these strengths will be key.”  

To know more, please visit: Brand Finance.com  

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and ranked as World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2025 and India’s Strongest Brand 2026 as per Brand Finance; Claridges Collection, a curated set of boutique luxury hotels merging elegance with historical charm; Brij, an experiential leisure offering; Atmantan, one of India’s leading integrated wellness destinations; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Gateway, full-service hotels designed to be your gateway to exceptional destinations; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; Tree of Life, private escapes in tranquil settings and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel – The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 645 hotels including 263 in the pipeline globally across 4 continents, 15 countries and over 300 locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is listed on the BSE and NSE.

Please visit: IHCL; Taj; Claridges Collection; Brij; Atmantan; SeleQtions; Gateway; Vivanta; Tree of Life; Ginger

For media queries, please contact: corpcomm@ihcltata.com

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