The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has issued a circular on Mandatory Enforcement of Prohibition on Sale of Tobacco Products near Educational institutions and Regulation of Sale of Alcohol (wholesale  and retail) Compliance and Accountability.

They have brought to attention that under Section 6 (b) of the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA), the sale of tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of any educational institution is strictly prohibited. Further, as per Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, giving or causing to be given to any child intoxicating substances, including tobacco or alcohol, is a punishable offence. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has reiterated these provisions in its official communication:https://www.pib.gov.in /PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2101735

Additionally, the sale and licensing of alcohol is governed by State Excise Laws, which impose restrictions on the location and operation of liquor outlets, including proximity to educational institutions. Strict adherence to these provisions is essential in the interest of child safety and public health they have informed.

In view of above the GSCPCR have issued the following directions for immediate compliance and enforcement. All educational institutions shall ensure installation of boards at conspicuous places outside their premises stating “Sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of this institution is prohibited”.

Heads of institutions shall monitor the surrounding vicinity and report any violations, including sale of tobacco or unauthorised /illegal sale of alcohol near the institution, to the jurisdictional police station and concerned authorities.

Law enforcement authorities shall conduct periodic inspections within their jurisdiction to identify violations of COTPA, 2003 and offences under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 and initiate prompt legal action.

The Excise Department shall review and ensure that all licensed premises comply with applicable distance and location norms from educational institutions, and take necessary action in case of violations.

Local bodies, including Municipal Councils and Village Panchayats, shall support enforcement by monitoring local compliance, regulating trade licences where applicable, and reporting violations to the competent authorities.

They have stated that, this matter concerns the protection of children and shall be treated with priority and seriousness. Any failure in compliance or enforcement will invite appropriate action.

PANAJI, June 01, 2026

There will be a power shut down on June 02, 2026 from 9 am to 01 pm at Chaitanya  DTC, Taleigao. Areas affected are Chaitanya , Blue Bay  and Surrounding areas and surrounding areas.

Panaji: June 01, 2026

A  power shut down has been arranged on June 03, 2026 from 9.00 a.m to 02.00 p.m, at  11 KV Utorda feeder, Verna to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Prial 1and Prial 2.

Similarly, a power shut down has been arranged on June 04, 2026 from 09.00  a.m to 02.00 p.m at 11 KV Arossim feeder, Verna to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Baga, Cansaulim Church, Xendo and Murdi.

And also a power shut down has been arranged on June 05, 2026 from 9.00 a.m to 02.00 p.m at 11 KV Cansaulim feeder, Verna to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Velsao Pale, Bellem, Infant Jesus, Dando and Fabrica.

Panaji: June 01, 2026

A  power shut down has been arranged on June 02, 2026 from 9.30 a.m to 01.00 p.m, at 400 kVA Old Ekoshi, Porvorim to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Ekoshi, Maringan temple and surrounding areas.

Similarly, a power shut down has been arranged on June 04, 2026 from 10.00 a.m to 01.00 p.m at Paithana 200kVA, Porvorim to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Paithana and surrounding area.

The Goa Police force is set to get 126 new PSI recruits as offer letters were issued to selected candidates under the Staff Selection Commission recruitment process. The selected batch comprises 121 male and 5 female candidates, who will undergo training in Delhi before formally joining service.

The programme witnessed the formal distribution of offer letters to the selected candidates as part of the recruitment drive aimed at strengthening the State police machinery. The newly selected PSI candidates will now proceed for structured training in Delhi before their induction into active service in Goa Police.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant congratulated the selected candidates and stated that the recruitment process has been conducted in a fully transparent and merit-based manner under the Staff Selection Commission. He emphasized that this process reflects the government’s commitment to fair opportunities for the youth of Goa.

Dr. Sawant further said that the selected PSI candidates carry a major responsibility as they will serve directly for the people of Goa. He urged them to work with discipline, dedication and integrity, keeping public service as their highest priority and maintaining the trust of citizens.

CM also reiterated that the establishment of the Staff Selection Commission was aimed at ensuring transparent and merit-based recruitment across sectors. He highlighted the importance of skill development and encouraged youth to prepare for competitive examinations such as the Goa Public Service Commission (GPSC) and Goa Staff Selection Commission (GSSC).

The programme concluded with the formal handing over of offer letters to the selected candidates, marking an important step in their journey towards joining the Goa Police force.

The event was held in the presence of Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary; Shri Alok Kumar, Director General of Police; Shri K. R. Chaurasia, IPS, Inspector General of Police along with senior police and government officials.

Goa marked its 40th Statehood Day with grandeur and pride at Kala Academy, Panaji, in the presence of Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, celebrating four decades of remarkable progress, rich cultural heritage and evolving identity since attaining statehood. The landmark event brought together people from all walks of life to honour Goa’s inspiring journey and shared aspirations for the future.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan said he was delighted to make his first official visit to Goa on such a momentous occasion. He praised Goa’s harmony of culture, heritage, education and civic consciousness, describing the state as a beautiful blend of ancient temples, magnificent churches and vibrant traditions.

Recalling former Defence Minister Late Manohar Parrikar, he appreciated Goa’s leadership and lauded the State Government for its transparent recruitment process, inclusive governance and sustainable development approach. Stressing the importance of balancing progress with identity, the Vice President stated that “there is no Viksit Bharat without Viksit Goa,” while encouraging the youth to use creativity as their greatest strength. He also expressed optimism about Goa’s future potential in the blue economy sector and paid tribute to all those who sacrificed their lives for Goa’s freedom.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant extended warm greetings to the people of Goa on the occasion of the 40th Statehood Day and thanked the Hon’ble Vice President for gracing the celebrations. Remembering the sacrifices of Goa’s freedom fighters, CM paid tribute to the brave individuals who fought for Goa’s liberation, recalling historic movements such as the Cuncolim Revolt and the contribution of revolutionary leaders like Deepaji Rane.

CM Dr. Sawant noted that Goa’s freedom struggle was strengthened not only by Goans, but also by patriots from across the country who stood united for Goa’s liberation during Operation Vijay. He further highlighted Goa’s rapid development across various sectors and spoke about the Government’s commitment towards building a self-reliant and progressive Goa through initiatives like Swayampurna Goa. He also mentioned the state’s expanding infrastructure projects highlighting the creation of Goa’s third district, Kushavati, as part of efforts to improve administration and governance.

The event featured the screening of a special documentary showcasing Goa’s inspiring transformation over the last four decades. Several key initiatives and recognitions marked the occasion, including the release of Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan Awardee and legendry Cartoonist Mario Miranda’s commemorative stamp and special cover, and the launch of the coffee table book titled “Goa Engineering the Next Era.”

The celebration featured the felicitation of Iconic brands of Goa which includes several eminent personalities and contributors from different sectors whose work has strengthened Goa’s development journey over the years.

Eminent personalities in dairy farming were felicitated under the Gopal Ratna Award Scheme for their outstanding contribution as highest milk producers and suppliers, alongside the felicitation of Swayampurna Mitra and Swayampurna Villages for their exemplary community initiatives.

Appointment letters were distributed to selected new recruits, while enhanced assistance under the Dayanand Social Security Scheme (DDSSY) was also launched.

Among those present at the occasion were Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Governor of Goa; Shri Shripad Naik, Union Minister for State of power and new renewable energy; Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Rajya Sabha MP; Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism; Shri Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Water Resource Department; Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar, Minister for Fisheries, Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary along with MLAs, senior government officials, awardees, representatives from various sectors and citizens from across the State.

The event concluded on a patriotic and celebratory note, reflecting the collective pride, unity and aspirations of the people of Goa as the State marked four decades of progress, achievement and identity.

Panaji: May 30, 2026

A  power shut down has been arranged on June 01, 2026 from 9.30 a.m to 01.00 p.m at 200 KVA 20 point DTC, Porvorim to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are 20 point, Masjid and surrounding area.

Similarly, a power shut down has been arranged on June 02, 2026 from 9.30 a.m to 01.00 p.m at 200 KVA Arradi DTC, Porvorim to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are Aradi, near Arradi junction, WOW washing centre, Primary School and surrounding area.

And also a power shut down has been arranged on June 02, 2026 from 9.00 a.m to 02.00 p.m at 11 KV Palyem/ Keri feeder to carry out routine maintenance works. Affected areas are  Village Panchayat Palyem, Village Panchayat Kerim, Terekhol and surrounding area .

Panaji: May 29, 2026

The Directorate of Art and Culture will celebrate 14 years of Prayog Saanj on May 30, 2026 from 4.30 p.m onwards at the Multipurpose hall, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji.

As part of the annual celebration this year the Directorate will commemorate 14 successful years of Prayog Saanj during which 12 directors who have staged their plays under this initiative will be felicitated.

On the occasion a talk on “The Future of Experimental Theatre in India” will  be delivere by Swanand Kirkire, a highly acclaimed Indian lyricist, playback, singer, screenwriter and actors.

The regular Prayog Saanj performance titled “Offside” by Threatre Flamingo will be staged at 6.30 p.m at the Art Gallery, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji. Open to all.

Panaji: May 29, 2026:In view of Vice President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan in Goa from May 29, 2026 to May 30, 2026, Captain of Ports Department has warned all the fishing trawlers/ fishing boats/ barges/ boats operating in the Zuari and Manddovi rivers  not to navigate in the prohibited zone (around 500 meters) around Lok Bhavan, Dona Paula, Kala Academy, CSIR, National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Panaji for security reasons.

Violations of the above will be viewed seriously.

Panaji, May 29, 2026::Marking four decades of progress, achievement, and cultural pride, the Government of Goa will celebrate the 40th Goa Statehood Day on May 30, 2026, at Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir, Kala Academy, Panaji, from 9:30 a.m. onwards. The State-Level celebration organized by the Department of Information and Publicity will reflect on Goa’s remarkable journey from a Union Territory to a progressive state while honouring its legacy and aspirations for the future. The celebration will be graced by the presence of the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan. The other dignitaries who will also grace the function are Governor, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant.

The programme will feature a series of initiatives showcasing Goa’s heritage, achievements, and development journey over the last four decades. Highlights include the inauguration of the Padma Vibhushan Mario Miranda Exhibition, release of the Mario Miranda Commemorative Stamp and Special Cover commemorating the centenary year of the noted Goan cartoonist, launch of the coffee table book “Goa: Engineering the Next Era”, and a special screening tracing Goa’s transformation from Union Territory to Statehood. The celebration will also recognise the contribution of iconic brands of Goa, Swayampurna Villages and Swayampurna Mitras towards building self-reliant communities across the State. Several key initiatives and recognitions will also form part of the occasion. These include distribution of appointment letters to newly selected Police Sub-Inspectors from the Goa Police Department, launch of enhanced assistance under Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana (DDSSY), and felicitation under the Gopal Ratna Award Scheme for outstanding contributions in dairy farming and milk production. Together, these initiatives reflect Goa’s continued focus on strengthening public service delivery, healthcare support, rural development, and community-led growth. More than a commemorative occasion, the celebration serves as a reflection of Goa’s resilience, identity, and achievements over the last forty years. It also provides an opportunity to acknowledge the people, institutions, and initiatives that have contributed to the State’s growth while looking ahead towards a stronger, more innovative, and self-reliant future.