CSR–NGO Conclave Held in Goa to Strengthen Corporate–Social Partnerships
In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state, Vidya Bharti Goa, in association with Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and Sai Institute, Morlem, organized the CSR–NGO Conclave with the aim of building meaningful partnerships between the corporate sector and NGOs working for social upliftment.
The event brought together representatives from major companies including Goa Shipyard, Paradeep Phosphates, Unichem, Finolex, Nestlé, Mineral Foundation, Geno Pharmaceuticals, and MRF, among others. Several NGOs presented their CSR proposals before the corporate houses, receiving an overwhelming and positive response.
The conclave began with a welcome address by Shri Kiran Ballikar, Director of GCCI, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable community development.
Chief Guest Dr. Pramod Salgaoncar, in her inspiring address, said that the Salgaocars have been engaged in CSR activities long before the term became popular. “It is in our DNA to share profits with those in need. I am very happy to associate with Vidya Bharti, which has been working tirelessly in the field of education. The greatest contribution one can make is through education, as it is the truest form of empowerment,” she said.
Vidya Bharti President Dr. Sitaram Korgaonkar, in his presidential address, remarked that such a conclave is being held in Goa for the very first time. “Events like these are often heard of in metros like Mumbai or Delhi, but today, Goa has taken a big step. This conclave feels like a matchmaking meet — where corporates and NGOs come together to understand each other and form long-term, impactful partnerships,” he added. Dr. Korgaonkar also congratulated the Vidya Bharti Goa team, Convener Shri Atmaram Gaonker, and GCCI for their visionary efforts.
A panel discussion on “Challenges in Preparing a CSR Proposal” was hosted by Shri Vishal Signapurkar, with active participation from Mrs. Teja Gadekar (Geno Pharmaceuticals), Shri Prashant Gunjikar (Goa Shipyard), Shri D. V. Tendulkar (Paradeep Phosphates), and Shri Sandeep Halyali. The discussion offered valuable insights into the practical hurdles faced by both sides in CSR planning and execution.
In his concluding speech, Prof. Dr. Shaikh Mohammad Parvez Al-Usmani emphasized that true partnerships are built on trust, transparency, and a shared vision. “Corporates bring discipline and accountability, while NGOs bring empathy and grassroots understanding. When these two energies unite, the result is transformative,” he stated.
The event was smoothly anchored by Adv. Roshan Samant and Prof. Atmaram Gaonker, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Shashank Kamat.
The conclave ended on a positive note, with participants expressing optimism that this unique platform would pave the way for stronger, more impactful CSR–NGO collaborations in Goa, promoting social development through education, empowerment, and sustainable action.
