In a ceremony organized by the Directorate of Art & Culture at Kala Academy, Panaji, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant underscored the vital role of artistes in contributing to the happiness index of society. The event aimed to confer State Cultural Awards, Yuva Srujan Puraskar, Best Institution, and Best Library Awards to individuals and entities making significant contributions to the field of art and culture.
During his address, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized the importance of music, art, literature, and drama in entertaining people and alleviating their struggles. Goa, renowned for its high GDP and happiness index, takes pride in its cultural richness. The Chief Minister expressed the government’s commitment to promoting and encouraging art, particularly among the youth, through awards such as Yuva Srujan Puraskar and State Cultural Awards.
Recognizing the commendable efforts of those in the field of art and culture, Dr. Sawant acknowledged their role in preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. He highlighted the global recognition garnered by artists like Smt Lata Mangeshkar and Pandit Manohar Buva Shirgaokar from Goa.
While acknowledging Goa’s global reputation for its rich culture, the Chief Minister emphasized the promotion of spiritual and cultural tourism in the state, transcending its famous beaches.
The recipients of the State Cultural Awards for the year 2023-24 were recognized for their outstanding contributions across various artistic domains, including theatre, literature, music, fine arts, and more. The awards ceremony celebrated their dedication to preserving and enriching Goa’s cultural tapestry.
In response to the felicitation, Shri Naresh Kadkade spoke in appreciation of the government’s efforts, echoing the sentiments of the award recipients.
The ceremony also saw the conferring of the Yuva Srujan Puraskar and recognition of the Best Institution and Best Library. The awardees, including individuals and institutions, were applauded for their noteworthy contributions to the cultural landscape of Goa.
The event witnessed the presence of Secretary Art & Culture Smt. Swetika Sachan IAS, Director of Art & Culture Shri Sagun Velip, Asst. Director Curator Central Library Shri Sushant Tandel, Award Selection Committee Member Shri Kamlakar Mhalshi, and other eminent personalities from the field of art and culture. The ceremony concluded with a sense of pride and commitment to preserving Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
