Margao: “The birth centenary of Anant (Babu) Narcinva Naik is not merely an occasion to remember a distinguished leader, but an opportunity to inspire future generations through his vision, integrity and lifelong commitment to public service. The Committee is committed to organising meaningful programmes that celebrate his legacy and values throughout the year,” said Chairman Shrinivas Dempo after the first meeting of the Anant (Babu) Narcinva Naik Centenary Celebrations Committee held at Margao.
Shrinivas Dempo said the year-long celebrations would honour former MLA, former Leader of Opposition, former Industries Minister and one of Goa’s tallest visionary leaders, Anant (Babu) Narcinva Naik, whose contribution extended far beyond politics to social work, spiritual activities, art and culture, and, most importantly, to safeguarding Goa’s unique identity. The press conference was attended by Vice Chairmen M. K. Shaikh and Maendra Alvares, Family Representative Pandurand (Bhai) Naik, Secretary Anil Pai, Treasurer Gautam Verlekar and Convenor Vishal Pai Cacode.
The Committee approved a broad framework for the Birth Centenary celebrations, which will commence on 19th August 2026. The inaugural day programme will feature the formal inauguration of the Centenary Year and the premiere of the documentary “Loknayak.”
As part of the centenary celebrations, the Committee also proposed a series of educational, cultural, social and community initiatives. These include pursuing the release of a Commemorative Postal Stamp, launching a Community Welfare Initiative in his memory, organising educational, cultural, sports and social programmes across Goa, and holding a Legislators’ Debate on Democratic Values and Goa’s Identity, besides several other activities highlighting his remarkable contribution to Goa.
The Birth Centenary Year will conclude on 19th August 2027. The day will feature the Valedictory Function and the release of the commemorative volume “Anant-Infinite”, documenting the life, leadership and enduring legacy of Anant (Babu) Narcinva Naik.
The meeting also witnessed an interactive discussion, with members offering valuable suggestions to make the centenary celebrations broad-based and meaningful. The Committee resolved to organise programmes that would preserve and promote the ideals of public service, integrity, democratic values and Goa’s identity, ensuring that the legacy of Anant (Babu) Narcinva Naik continues to inspire future generations.
The meeting was attended by Anil Counto, Ulhas Verlekar, Pravas Naik, Vivek K. Naik, Pravinkumar Gosalia, Saiesh Panandicar, Mukesh Saglani, Sagun alias Dada Naik, Shweta Korgaonkar, Arthur D’Silva, Raju Nambiar, Mahendra Alve and others.
