The Goa Pavilion at the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF), 2025, held at Pragati Maidan, was honoured with the Special Appreciation Award for excellence in display under the States and Union Territories Pavilion category. The award was presented by Dr Neeraj Kharwal, IAS, Managing Director, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).
Representatives from Goa receiving the accolade included Kiran Munankar, Information Officer, DIP; Chandu Korgaonkar, Photographer, DIP; Sadashiv Narayan Pandit, Administration Officer, Goa Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board; Saiel Kamat, Assistant Manager, Goa Waste Management; and Vighnesh Prabhu, GSINC.
Inaugurated by Dipak Bandekar, Director of Information and Publicity, the Goa Pavilion stood out for its innovative design, immersive experience, and effective portrayal of Goa’s history, art, culture, and traditions. Spanning 200 sq. mts. in Hall No. 3, the pavilion highlighted Goan cuisine, hospitality, and developmental achievements using audio-visuals, photographs, and informative displays.
Conceptualised and executed by Vinayak Decorators, the pavilion featured rustic, traditional Goan aesthetics, local handicrafts, and daily performances by Goan folk artists. Visitors experienced a vibrant showcase of cultural heritage while sampling regional cuisine.
The pavilion also facilitated interaction between producers and buyers, promoting GI-tagged and traditional Goan products. Various departments, including Tourism, GTDC, Handicrafts, Textile and Coir, Goa State Biodiversity Board, and Waste Management Corporation, actively participated, highlighting Goa’s policies, programmes, and developmental initiatives.
This recognition underscores Goa’s commitment to preserving its unique cultural identity while promoting economic and social development on a national platform, celebrating the State’s rich heritage in a truly immersive manner.
