the goan I network
PANAJI
Scientist Dr Arvind Untawale, best known in recent years as a champion for the cause of mangrove plantations in Goa, passed away at Manipal Hospital early morning on Saturday. His funeral is likely to be held on Sunday. He was 79 years old.
Born on June 26, 1940, Untawale completed his PhD in Botany from Nagpur University in 1972. He worked as a Scientist at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), from 1973 till his superannuation, and rose to the level of Deputy Director and Advisor. He was the Founding President of the Botanical Society of Goa and the Secretary of the Mangrove Society of India.
According to what organic agriculturist Miguel Braganza posted to social media on Saturday, the Plant Show organized by the Botanical Society of Goa under Untawale’s leadership at Kala Academy in February, 1992, inspired Joel DS and cartoonist Alexyz to put together the first event that got its name on the night of 14-15 August, 1992 at SFX High School, Siolim-Goa. It has just completed its 28th edition.
Untawale was a nominated member of many academic, professional and research bodies/committees and organisations such as International Society of Mangrove Ecosystem (ISME), National Academy of Sciences, International Society of Plant Ecology, and the Mangrove Society of India. He was also a member of the Board of Studies in Botany at Shivaji University, Kolhapur, Goa University, and Amravati University.
Dr Untawale’s body will be taken from Manipal Hospital to his residence at Sagar Society on Sunday (today) at 11 am for people to pay their last respects.
Funeral service rituals will be performed at St Inez (Panaji) crematorium at 4 pm.
