Pandurang Gaonkar
National Press Day celebrations in Goa saw Editors and senior journalists from The Goan Everyday, Goan Varta and Bhangarbhuimi being recognised for their exemplary work, as they received awards and felicitations at the State-level function.
At the Goa Journalist Awards 2025, Goan Varta Editor Pandurang Gaonkar was presented the Best Editor Award for his article promoting national integration and communal harmony. The Goan Everyday senior reporter Vibha Verma was honoured for her reporting on women, children and social issues, while Bhangarbhuimi senior reporter Sameep Narvekar was awarded for his stories highlighting government achievements.
Vibha Verma
Sameep Narvekar
Senior journalist and Editor of The Goan Everyday, Joel Afonso, and Bhangarbhuimi sub-editor Atul Pandit were also felicitated for their noteworthy contributions to the profession. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant presented the awards.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed on veteran Siolim-based cartoonist Alex Raphael Fernandes, popularly known as Alexyz.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of balanced reporting, emphasising that news must present all sides to ensure fairness and transparency. While reiterating that the government welcomes constructive criticism from the media, Sawant urged journalists to help uphold the State’s image.
“The truth must always come out because people depend on it. Ensure both sides of a story are reported. Avoid hype and verify information,” he said. Sawant added that the government is committed to resolving issues faced by journalists, inviting them to submit a detailed proposal, and assured that the demand to enhance the journalist pension—currently ₹10,000 per month—would be considered positively.
