PANJIM: Though the government led by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is backing the Vibrant Goa event in the State slated to be held in October this year, Goa State Industries Association (GSIA) has decided to withdraw its support to the event.
GSIA in a letter to its members, signed by Vice-President Anirudh Dempo, stated, “GSIA’s Executive and Advisory Committee have taken a unanimous decision to withdraw our formal support to the Vibrant Goa event to be conducted by Vibrant Goa Foundation and rescind our earlier decision to associate with the event. This decision has been taken after it came to light that the Vibrant Goa Foundation is a private trust.”
The letter added, “Executive and Advisory Committee felt that GSIA has no control or influence over the decision making of a private organisation and any failure in governance there, would adversely affect the reputation and goodwill of GSIA as its associate. However, GSIA wishes the Vibrant Goa team all the best in their endeavour.”
GSIA president Rajkumar Kamat who is also president of the Vibrant Goa Foundation when approached by Herald said, “Vibrant Goa Foundation is a not for profit trust and this was communicated earlier and we will go ahead with Vibrant Goa event. I am the president of the Vibrant Goa Foundation. If GSIA needs any clarification from Vibrant Goa Foundation then it will be given.” Interestingly, Kamat’s term GSIA president ends on June 30.
At present, the Vibrant Goa team has held several international and national road shows to bring in business leaders and corporate honchos as delegates. Many Indian Embassies and High Commissions across the world have also been engaged in this.
Since it is an international event, any hindrance could lead to a big loss to the business community of Goa both in India and abroad.
