CANACONA
The foundation stone for the Rs 5.42 crore beautification and renovation of Shree Mallikarjun Temple at Avem-Cotigao was laid on Thursday by Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte.
Art and Culture Minister and Canacona MLA Ramesh Tawadkar, and GTDC Chairman Kedar Naik were present at the ceremony, held under Goa’s Spiritual Tourism Circuit initiative. The project aims to preserve the state’s cultural and spiritual heritage while improving temple facilities.
GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar, Khotigao Sarpanch Jayesh Gaonkar, panchas, temple committee members, Mahajans and tourism officials attended.
The project had sparked controversy after the GTDC awarded the work to a Muslim contractor from Chimbel on July 3. The work order was withdrawn on July 6, 2026, following objections from local groups. The tender was subsequently re-floated and awarded to another contractor.
