PANAJI: Goa is on high alert following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced heightened security measures across the coastal state, citing its status as a popular tourist destination.
In a show of solidarity and respect for the victims, Sawant has also cancelled all personal programmes planned for his birthday on April 24.
“I will not be accepting any birthday wishes and request the people of Goa and BJP karyakartas not to visit me,” he said while addressing the press today. While celebratory events are cancelled, BJP-backed service initiatives like medical camps in Sanquelim and other locations will proceed as planned, he added.
Sawant also assured that the government is in constant touch with Goan tourists stranded in Srinagar. “We’re working to ensure their safe return,” he said.
In a related move, the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) has postponed the Goa Cashew Fest 2025, which was scheduled to be held from April 25 to 27. GFDC chairperson Deviya Rane said, “As a mark of respect to the innocent lives lost in the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, the festival stands postponed. New dates will be announced shortly.”
