Panaji, 15 April 2026

Marking a significant step towards strengthening experiential learning in schools, the Goa Government flagged off the “Taare Zameen Par” Mobile STEM and Digital Planetarium Bus at PM Shri School, Cumbarjua. The initiative aims to bring interactive and hands-on science learning directly to students across the State.
The mobile unit is equipped with an inflatable digital planetarium that will provide immersive astronomy and space science shows directly in schools. It also includes portable STEM and science experiment kits, enabling students to engage in hands-on learning and gain practical understanding of scientific concepts. The initiative will cover government and aided schools across the State, ensuring wider access to advanced educational tools.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “This initiative opens new avenues of curiosity, innovation and discovery for our students by taking learning beyond conventional methods.” Emphasising the State’s vision, he added, “Education in Goa must go beyond academics to nurture confident, skilled and future-ready individuals.” He noted that the programme will benefit students from Classes V to X by encouraging scientific temper, creativity and critical thinking through interactive engagement.
Highlighting the broader vision, CM Dr. Sawant informed that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Goa State Council of Educational Research and Training and the Antarang Foundation to introduce a structured career education programme. This will support students of higher classes in making informed career choices and preparing for future opportunities.
The programme was attended by MLA, Shri Rajesh Phal Dessai,; Secretary, Education, Shri Prasad Lolayekar, IAS; Director of Education, Shri Shailesh Zingade,; Director, Goa State Council of Educational Research and Training, Smt. Meghana Shetgaonkar along with the Principal, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students of PM Shri School, Cumbarjua.

Panaji: April 14, 2026

The 135th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was commemorated at Dr. Ambedkar Park at Panaji. The programme was organised by the Government of Goa in collaboration with the Directorate of Social Welfare and the Goa State Scheduled Caste and Other Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant extended greetings on Ambedkar Jayanti and emphasised that education remains the most powerful means of empowerment, as envisioned by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of backward classes through various schemes. He also encouraged meritorious students to appear for national-level competitive examinations such as NEET and JEE, assuring scholarship support.  The Chief Minister further highlighted initiatives such as the Nari Shakti Adhiniyam and campaigns like Nasha Mukt Bharat and Nasha Mukt Goa.

CM also virtually laid the foundation stone for the Ambedkar Bhavan at Porvorim and stated that the project will be completed within one year and will be inaugurated at the next Ambedkar Jayanti. Financial assistance was provided to 1,999 beneficiaries under various welfare schemes, reflecting the government’s focus on inclusive development.

Meritorious students were also felicitated during the programme for their academic achievements, recognizing their efforts and encouraging them to pursue higher goals in education.

The programme was attended by Minister for Social Welfare, Shri Subhash Phal Desai; MLA, Pernem Shri Pravin Arlekar; Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS; Director, Social Welfare Shri Dipak Bandekar; SC/ST Commissioner Shri Ravindra Gaonkar, along with Secretaries, Heads of Departments, and other dignitaries.

Panaji: April 14, 2026

National Fire Service Day was observed at the Fire Force Training Ground, St. Inez, Panaji. The observance highlighted the importance of fire safety, preparedness and the critical role of fire services in protecting lives and property.

The programme commenced with a ceremonial parade by fire service personnel, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and a two-minute silence in memory of firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Fire personnel were felicitated with commendation certificates for their exemplary service, and Director of Fire and Emergency Services Shri Nitin V. Raikar was presented with his Ph.D. certificate. An exhibition of advanced fire fighting equipment and modern rescue tools were also inaugurated.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “Preparedness is the key to saving lives.” He further stated, “The Government of Goa is committed to strengthen fire and emergency services across the State.” He added, “New fire stations are being set up at Sanguem and Dharbandora to ensure faster response in remote areas.” He also highlighted the implementation of the ERSS 112 emergency response system for coordinated services. He emphasised that strengthening infrastructure, coordination and capacity building remains a key priority for the Government.

CM Dr. Sawant informed that zonal fire control rooms will be established across North Goa, South Goa, and Kushavati to enhance coordination and efficiency. He stated that the existing training facility will be upgraded into a State Fire Training Academy to strengthen capacity building. Initiatives such as Apada Mitra and Apada Sakhi were also mentioned to enhance community participation in disaster response, while awareness activities like drawing and essay competitions promoted fire safety among students.

The programme was attended by Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS; Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Shri Nitin V. Raikar; senior officers; fire service personnel; and other dignitaries.