VOL 1 ISSUE 11 panaji goa
RNI No.: goaeng/2015/59955
goa’s only business magazine
Postal license no.: G-2/RNP/Monthly/Goa-19/2015-17
www.businessgoa.in november 2015
industry dossier
Diwali Special
nurallah k. veljee spacedeal pvt. ltd.
Thrill of a Deal Nurallah Veljee is a pioneer of the real estate agency business in Goa. Over the years, this go-getter has seen many ups and downs, but nobody has been able to write off his tenacity. In what he calls his ‘second innings’, he is back to shake the realty market in Goa
Corporate Training focus | 28
Caculo Ford
enterprise | 32
Narayan Bandekar interview | 34
Chandelkar
Goan brand | 42
News Views Articles Interviews Profiles Focus Analysis Opinions Events Features
Contents
November 2015
46 Lady Power 48 Professional Dossier
28
Asha Chaudhary runs an online entrepreneurial community, Rodinhoods.com
22
Dr Kedar Padte is a respected name in the medical profession. He is also the person behind OneWorld, a peace promoting organisation
Diwali Special
16
78 Bon Appétit
16 Cover Story
Nurallah Veljee is a rainmaker in the world of real estate agency. As one of the pioneers in the field, he is staging an audacious comeback
42
28 Focus Goa 30 Starting Young 32 Enterprise
46
Corporate training, as a tool to stay ahead of the curve is gaining acceptance in Goa
Narayan Bandekar and Shivanand Salgaocar on the way forward for mining. Andrew David Fernandes on his brand D’ziners
64
Gauri Falari’s Shantadurga Concretes is making a name for itself in the pavers and tiles business
42 Goan Brand
66
Chandelkars is an age-old brand in Goa famous for its pickles and masalas
68
70
72 36
08 Editorial 10 Corpo Scan 22 Festive Special 44 Book Shelf 44 BG Crossword 49 Real Estate 50 Events 52 Biz Bytes 56 Hospitality 76 What’s Up Goa 80 Goa Buzz 82 Newsmakers 82 BG Quiz 06 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
Ranjan Naik advocates a shipping cluster in Goa
62
Industry
34
Kishore Shah on adopting global standards
60
34 Interview
74
58 Good Company 60 People Tree 62 Shipping 64 Antarprerna 66 Letter from America 68 Adventure Capitalist 70 Beyond Classroom 72 Business Insights 74 Money Matters Swatee Shere Rane handholds you in your bid to incorporate a company
58
Caculo and Ford is a century old tie-up. A look at how the dealership is staying in tune with global standards
32
48
COLUMNS
Sangam Pai Dhungat has invested his youthful energy in Voltaire, a Goan restaurant
40
Soi at Sinq by Sahil Advalpalkar is making a name for itself as an authentic Goan restaurant
Nandini Vaidyanathan converts lessons learnt at a tiger safari into business wisdom
Jay Dehejia laments on stress related issues that Americans are battling these days
U Mahesh Prabhu analyses the European economic crisis
Dr Pradeep Salgaonkar advises companies to remain service-oriented
Lalit Saraswat explains the downfall of MITS and the rise of its vendor, Microsoft
V B Prabhu Verlekar writes on how Sec 5A came to be introduced in the Income Tax Act
KARCHER PRODUCT RANGE 2015
security solutions
For Furniture
VOL 1 ISSUE 11 PANAJI GOA
RNI No.: GOAENG/2015/59955
POSTAL LICENSE No.: G-2/RNP/Monthly/Goa-19/2015-17
GOA’S ONLY BUSINESS MAGAZINE www.businessgoa.in NOVEMBER 2015 INDUSTRY DOSSIER
EDITORIAL
hbhatkuly@gmail.com VOL 1 ISSUE 11 panaji goa
RNI No.: goaeng/2015/59955
Diwali Special
NURALLAH K. VELJEE SPACEDEAL PVT. LTD.
THRILL OF A DEAL Nurallah Veljee is a pioneer of the real estate agency business in Goa. Over the years, this go-getter has seen many ups and downs, but nobody has been able to write off his tenacity. In what he calls his ‘second innings’, he is back to shake the realty market in Goa
Corporate Training FOCUS | 28
Caculo Ford
ENTERPRISE | 32
Narayan Bandekar INTERVIEW | 34
Wish you a bright Diwali
Harshvardhan Bhatkuly
Chandelkar
GOAN BRAND | 42
News Views Articles Interviews Profiles Focus Analysis Opinions Events Features
There is more than an element of truth
akin to God for him.
NOVEMBER 2015
in social typecasts. Very often we
Talking about the community, I have
take umbrage to popular perceptions.
been a great admirer of Jaisingh
Nowadays, we are also very touchy and
Maganlal, father of Kirit and founder of
Editor & Publisher Harshvardhan Bhatkuly
politically correct when we talk about
the Magsons Supercentre. He served as
Co-Publisher & Group Head Urvija Bhatkuly
communities, other than our own.
a Trustee of the school which I attended.
Growing up in Goa, the main
As a child, I would often wonder, how
Advisory Board Datta Damodar Naik Ralph de Sousa Rajiv D’Silva Swapnil Kamat
attraction during the festival of Diwali
this man had so much positive energy.
was ironically the Narakasura. The
He would laugh and pat you and lift your
festival per se, was always a family
spirits – and would often say “cheers” –
and low-key affair. One would be done
the sound of which you would otherwise
Consultant Conrad Stephen Business Head Annalise Gouveia Admin & Accounts Akhil Prabhu Verlekar Ashok Kolvekar
with it in half a day. But now, Diwali
hear only when adults clinked glasses
is surely as big as Ganesh Chaturthi in
with colourful liquid in them.
Goa. Call it the North Indian influence
You can understand my
amazement when I pass by his store
on our lives. However, the one community that brought
everyday and I see Mr Maganlal still at the
the festivities of Diwali on a visible level to Goa
doorstep of his supercentre. Laughing and patting
was the Gujarati.
his customers and saying “cheers.” He is at an age
Goa’s Gujaratis are an inspiring mix. Many of
when most people I know would recoil themselves
Advertising Graphics Govit Morajkar
them have completely aligned themselves with
into their forced retirements. But not Mr Maganlal!
the Goan ethos and yet managed to retain their
His energy for his business is so infectious, that
Distribution & Logistics Mayur Santinezkar Pritesh Naik
Gujarati side intact.
you have to make a purchase at his superstore. In
The Damodar Mangalji and Maganlal families
fact, here is an endorsement that there is no better
have been at the forefront of the Gujarati folks in
mascot and brand ambassador for your business,
Contributors in this Issue Jay Dehejia Kishore Shah Lalit Saraswat Meenal Bale Nandini Vaidyanathan Dr. Pradeep Salgaonkar Ranjan Naik Swatee Shere Rane U Mahesh Prabhu V B Prabhu Verlekar
Panaji.
than you yourself. His respect and bonding with
The typecast of a Gujarati trader sitting
his customers is worth emulating.
besides his iron safe is something that we all have
seen in Goa.
ahead. Let us each give our businesses the
same energy and spirit that the likes of Jaisingh
Editorial, Advertising & Administrative Office Business Goa 409, Citicentre, EDC Patto Plaza, Panaji, 403001 Goa India Tel.: 0832-6456555, 2437822 Email: businessgoa.media@gmail.com Unsolicited material may not be returned. The opinions expressed in Business Goa are not necessarily that of the publishers. While great care is being taken to ensure accuracy of information, the publishers are not responsible for omissions or incorrect information. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers.
When the rest of the country was nursing a
This Diwali, I wish you all a very bright year
guilt about wealth creation; and ‘rich’ was a bad
Maganlal do.
word in the Indian scheme of things, it was a
Gujarati by the name of Dhirubhai Ambani who
to another Gujarati – the Father of Our Nation:
made us recast our theory of wealth.
“A customer is the most important visitor on our
Diwali for a Gujarati is always about the
premises. He is not dependent on us. We are
New Year and his ‘chopda pujan’ – where the
dependent on him. He is not an interruption in our
account books are venerated in his shop or office.
work. He is the purpose of it. He is not an outsider
The umbilical connection of a Gujarati with his
in our business. He is part of it. We are not doing
business cannot be snapped. He lives for his
him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a
business and his identity is his business. Perhaps,
favour by giving us an opportunity to do so”
I am tempted to sign off with a quote attributed
this is the reason why one’s business promise is Printed, published and owned by Harshvardhan V. Bhatkuly and printed at Printek Printers and Published at 409, Citicentre, EDC Patto Plaza, Panaji - Goa 403001. Editor: Harshvardhan V. Bhatkuly
08 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
corpo scan
Heritage Village Club bags ‘Best All Inclusive Hotel’ Award The Heritage Village Club, located on Arossim beach, has been awarded the ‘Best All Inclusive Hotel Award’ at the India Travel Awards 2015. This award has been instituted by DDP Publication. General Manager of Heritage Village Club Guitry Velho received the award from Goa’s Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar at a ceremony held at Candolim. The India Travel Award is awarded for excellence and for exceeding high standards of service and quality of accommodation for the year. This award recognizes the best performers in their own segment.
Ore transportation halted over freight rate More than 600 members of All Goa Truck Owners Association (AGTOA) stopped the mining trucks, operating on Bombay road, at Pale-Kothambi junction in protest against Vedanta’s Sesa Goa Mining Company’s refusal to increase the freight rate for transporting e-auctioned ore, recently. Sankhali MLA Dr Pramod Sawant, who was present at the spot, extended his support to the truck operators. The truck operators requested the police present, to check whether the operating trucks were fulfilling all the legal formalities. On finding that trucks were being operated without adhering to the legal formalities, the ore transportation was brought to a standstill. Meanwhile, the Association decided to call off their stir later as Sesa Goa Company agreed to increase the freight rate for the ore transportation. Nilkanth Gawas, President
of All Goa Truck Owners Association said that the future course of action will be decided after a meeting with the Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar. Meanwhile, a spokesperson of Vedanta Ltd said that exports of iron ore that recently commenced could come to a standstill if the truckers’ issue is not resolved. “For the past ten days the company is facing problems with the truck operators over a demand for hike in freight tariff, which has hampered the business.” According to the information provided by the company, the freight rate the truck owners are demanding exceeds the freight rate fixed by the Directorate of Mining and Geology (DMG). “If the deadlock with truckers continues, the transportation of the freshly-mined ore will be hampered,” said the spokesperson
Environment Clearance for Mopa Airport
The Government gave environmental clearance for a new international airport at Mopa. The greenfield airport, to be developed in four phases, will have annual passenger capacity of 13.1 million by 2045. Its estimated cost is said to be around Rs. 3,000 crore. The airport will be developed in four phases. “As per the recommendation of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC), the Ministry of Environment hereby accords environment clearance (EC) for the project greenfield international airport at Mopa,”
the Union Environment Ministry said in a letter to the Goa government. The environment clearance has been given to the Mopa greenfield airport project subject to the compliance of certain specific and general conditions, the letter said. The Goa government’s Directorate of Civil Aviation has been asked to ensure availability of adequate land at the junction of the Mopa airport road and Mumbai-Goa NH-17 for traffic circulation, and to provide all traffic interchanges and a proposed clover. It has also been asked to get the approval of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the approach and exit roads to the airport. Meanwhile, the environmentalists opposed to the Mopa airport project would approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT) against the clearance, according to reports
Hearing on Goa Permanent Fund deferred by Supreme Court The Supreme Court (SC) has deferred hearing on Goa Permanent Fund to a later date. Miners in Goa are required to set aside 10 per cent of the proceeds
from their sales towards the Goa Permanent Fund as per a directive of the Supreme Court. However, companies are seeking the Apex Court’s intervention
to stop what is called as double or duplicate taxation on mining in the state. The petition which was to come up for hearing has been postponed, said GMOEA
sources. Another petition filed by Goa Foundation, challenging the legality of 88 mining leases will be heard by the Supreme Court on November 6
Industry seeks more time to study proposed power tariff Industry in Goa is objecting to the hurry in pushing through new power tariffs by the electricity department. It is asking for additional time to study the proposals relating to tariff increase and also for the postponing of the public hearing by nearly a month. According to industry the last date for submission of suggestions and objections from consumers should be postponed to November and the public hearing pushed ahead to December the GCCI, GSIA, CIIGoa and TTAG which together represent the largest segment of industrial power consumers in the state jointly submitted a petition on behalf of the industry to the Joint Electricity
Regulatory Commission (JERC) on the forthcoming tariff hike. The petition is submitted to SK Chaturvedi, Chairman, JERC, Gurgaon. “Power is an important part of manufacturing costs and any large and unreasonable variation
10 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
can spell doom for the industrial consumers. Hence it is important that the industry studies the plan to raise tariffs in detail and gives its balanced and constructive suggestions on the same,” says the petition. The Electricity Department recently filed a petition with the JERC for approval of its business plan for the multi-year tariff (MYT), for the coming years, under the JERC (Multiyear Distribution Tariff) Regulations. These plans were accepted by JERC recently. Subsequently through an advertisement published in local dailies, JERC invited from
the public suggestions/objections on the petition. It also announced a public hearing in the coming days. According to industry, the time of six working days to study the 150-page, highly technical business plan document is too short. The four trade bodies said that it is unfair to expect any meaningful suggestions or objections to the petition in such a short period. “The industry is also at a loss to understand why the State Electricity Department as well as JERC is in such a tearing hurry to push through major changes in power tariff without giving the consumers a reasonable opportunity to study the proposals,” said sources at GCCI
Dalmia Cement eyes Goa market
corpo scan
Dalmia Cement Bharat Ltd, the third largest cement producer in India is looking to larger market presence in Goa as part of its India expansion. The Goa market will be catered to by the company’s newly commissioned 2.5 million ton plant in Belgavi, said M K Swaminathan, Executive Director, Sales. It is the eleventh manufacturing facility of Dalmia Cement in India, he said. Cement consumption in Goa is expected to receive a boost from ongoing infrastructure projects and demand likely to grow five-six per cent in the coming year. To grab a larger market share Dalmia Cement is started beefing up its dealership network in the state through talks with 15 dealers initially.
Awareness camp on government GSIA seeks extension on NPV scheme government had offered Small units in Goa schemes at Sankhali complete exemption of led by the Goa Small In order to publicize Dr Verghese Kurien Rojgar Yojana (VKRY) Scheme formerly known as Chief Minister’s Rozgar Yojana and other selfemployment schemes being implemented by various departments and corporations, etc, of the government, EDC Ltd will conduct a camp for Bicholim taluka at Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali. The main objective is to reach out to maximum number of unemployed persons and to motivate them to avail benefits
under various selfemployment schemes of the government. Other departments and agencies which are implementing self-employment schemes, such as Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB), Goa Handicrafts Rural and Small Scale Industrial Development Corporation Ltd, (GHRSSIDC), Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce, Department of Agriculture and Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, etc, will also be participating
Goa’s delegation calls on Maharashtra Industries Minister A delegation led by Mahadev Naik, Minister for Industries called on his counterpart, the Industries Minister of Maharashtra, Subhash Dessai in Mumbai last month and discussed various issues pertaining to trade promotion and investment mobilization in the state. Maharashtra government very recently had a sizeable success in attracting suitable investments from abroad and quite a few big tickets FDI showed tremendous interest in the state. Dessai along with officials
of Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation interacted with the Goan delegation comprising of Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of Goa IDC including Dr Manoj Kamat, Umesh Joshi, Gurav and discussed strategies that Goa could emulate to project itself as a manufacturing and export, which appears to fit in with Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ mission aimed at facilitating investment, innovation and manufacture of world-class products in the country
Vedanta first half profits for 2015-16 dip 38% Vedanta Ltd declared 38 per cent plunge in net profit recently. The company announced its halfyear results recently and latest numbers reveal overall decline in performance. While revenues at `33,301 crore are nine per cent lower than `36,504 in first half of the year, plummet in net profit is from `2,981 in that year to `1,840 crore in the current year. As such the first half performance is driven down by worsening second quarter where revenues are down 16 per cent and net profits lower 41 per cent. Second quarter revenues and net profit are `16,349 crore and `974 crore respectively. Vedanta has attributed the drop
in revenues to fall in crude oil and metal prices. The decrease in gross profit by 35 per cent is due to a steep fall in prices of commodities. The price fall was however partially offset by improvements in volumes and cost reduction and it was supported by currency depreciation and District Mineral Foundation (DMF) write-back. During the quarter, the Government of India notified the contribution towards DMF at 30 per cent of royalty for existing mining leases, payable w.e.f. January 12 2015. Accordingly, the earlier excess provision of `140 crore for DMF was reversed during the quarter
12 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
Industries Association (GSIA) are asking for an extension of the Net Present Value (NPV) scheme, the benefit of which expires this year. Sudin Naik, President, GSIA said that at present there is no other tax benefit available to MSMEs which are at a disadvantage due to non availability of raw materials, skilled labour and even marketing of finished products. As a result, it is very difficult for the small units to compete with their counterparts in the rest of the country. The GSIA recently submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister for extension of the scheme and is hoping for a favourable response. The memorandum states that although small units are expected to benefit from tax input credit through the Goods and Services Tax (GST) there is widespread scepticism about it taking off since the Parliament failed to pass the legislation. Further, it is doubtful whether GST will be implemented as envisaged. The memorandum requests additional period of tax exemption under NPV scheme for three years or till the implementation of GST. In order to boost manufacturing the state
Dealers under VAT can file returns by November 29
The returns to be filed by registered dealers under section 24 of the Goa Value Added Tax Act, 2005, other than those opted for composition of tax under section 7 of the said Act, for the quarter ending will be accepted up to November 29, 2015 without payment of penalty. It is also brought to the notice of the said dealers that, failure to file returns for the quarter ended within the period as extended vide Government order will attract penalties as provided in section 55 of the said Act
sales tax for a period of 15 years for small scale units that had gone into production and effected first sale. Subsequently, the Goa Sales Tax Deferment-cum-Net Present Value Compulsory Payment Scheme, or the NPV Scheme was introduced. The scheme was modified Under the terms of the NPV an eligible unit can opt to take the benefit equal to the tax deferred relating to balance unexpired period reduced by net present value. For units availing of NPV the payment of sales tax payable is deemed to have been deferred for five years subject to compulsory payment of NPV which will be in lieu of repayment of deferral amount at the end of the specified period. The units would collect the sales tax, pay the Government 25 per cent as net present value and retain 75 per cent
GSL-SITEG collaborate for Skill Development Institute
Goa Shipyard Limited, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Society for Industrial and Technical Education of Goa (SITEG) for setting up of a separate Skill Development Institute at BogdaVasco at a cost of over `60 lakh. GSL’s Skill Development program, one of many such CSR initiatives, primarily focuses on imparting employability skills among the unemployed youth and school dropouts within the state of Goa. The 3G welding training program spread across 3 months will provide Indian Register of Shipping certification to the participants. The students also get an opportunity to polish their skill sets further under the experienced and seasoned GSL personnel during their one week training at Goa Shipyard Ltd
corpo scan
CII-IGBC seminar on ‘Sustainable Living in Cities’ CII-Goa and Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) had organized a seminar on ‘Sustainable Living in Cities,’ hosted by the Acron Group, at Fortune Select Regina, Candolim. The seminar addressed linkages between water, land, food, irrigation, and sanitation service management in cities and urban areas. Eminent speakers Prof (Dr) Kishore Munshi, Professor and former head of Industrial Design Centre, IIT, Bombay and Prof (Dr) Jan-Olof Drangert, emeritus associate professor, department of water and environmental studies, Linköping University, Sweden addressed the session.
Zuari Agro conducts training on cashew pest Under Goa Agri Initiative (GAIN), Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd had organized training programs on control of cashew stem and root borer pest (CSRB) in Keri village of Sattari taluka recently. Ex-project coordinator of Krishi Vidhyan Kendra, ICAR Ela Vishram Gaokar and zonal agricultural officer, Valpoi Prakash Raut were the chief faculties. The program was held in the field of progressive farmer Vijaykumar Patil. Over 10 per
cent annual loss in cashew yield is attributed to this pest. The larvae remain active for 6-7 months, resulting in weakening the tree and ultimately it dies. If the pest is detected during early stage, the tree can be saved. Since the larvae lies deep inside the bark
Goa IDC to handover Diu Industrial Estate to Daman & Diu Administration
of the affected tree, spotting the location and physical removal of pest is a skilful job, requiring some practical experience. Hence the focus of the program was on practical aspects of pest management. Deputy General Manager of GAIN S S Bakhale and Vishram Gaokar of Krishi Vidhyan Kendra, Ela, spoke on the occasion. Practical demonstration entailing spotting and physical removal of pest was demonstrated in the field
Goa Tourism bags ‘Best Beach Destination‘ award
A delegation led by Mahadev Naik, Minister for Industries along with the delegation officials of the Goa Industrial Development Industrial Estate Association at Diu convened a meeting with the Collector of Diu Administration on the issue of transferring the assets and liabilities of Goa-IDC to Omnibus-Industrial Development Corporation. The Collector of Diu Admn, Vikram Malik, Tanveer Ahmen, Dy Collector along with UT government
officials, office bearers of the Diu Industrial Estate discussed terms of handing over with Naik accompanied by the Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of Goa IDC including Dr Manoj Kamat, Advisor GIDC, Umesh Joshi Under Secretary to Minister, S V Naik, MD GIDC, Gurav Chief General Manager GIDC, and Directors of GIDC Chandrakant Samant, and Rajeev Nevgi discussed the constraints faced by the Diu Estate association
Indoco Remedies Q2 Net rise 9% Y-o-Y to `248 Cr.
India moves up on World Bank ranking of ease of doing business
Indoco Remedies posted net revenues of `247.7 crores for the second quarter, up by 9.4 %, as against `226.4 crores for the same period last year. Profit After Tax (PAT) for the quarter was at `22.6 crores compared to `22.4 crores in the corresponding quarter last year. Commenting on the quarterly performance, Aditi Panandikar, Managing Director, Indoco Remedies said, “Company’s restructuring process of domestic marketing divisions including field force expansion, taken up in the beginning of the year is expected to yield good results in the future. Performance of new products and prescription trend as per market data (CMARC & AWACs) have already started indicating positive trend”
Coming as a morale booster for the economy, India’s ranking by the World Bank on ease of doing business has improved to 130 in the latest report from 142 last year while the ranking has gone up by four points compared with the country’s revised position. Assessing the changing environment for business, the World Bank annual report said while India has progressed on the key ranking, substantial benefits can accrue to the entrepreneurs if sustained efforts are made in this direction. “Fostering an environment more supportive of private sector activity will take time. But if the efforts are sustained over the next several years, they could lead to substantial benefits for Indian entrepreneurs along with potential gains in economic growth and job creation,” the
14 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
The second edition of the West India Travel Awards celebrated the achievements of those behind the success of travel and tourism industry where Goa Tourism walked away with top honours of being the Best Beach Destination. Dilip Parulekar, Minister for Tourism, Govt of Goa was the Chief Guest and Nikhil Desai, Managing Director GTDC was the guest of honour
report authored by the World Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Kaushik Basu said. A happy Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said, the impact of several measures taken by the Bhartiya Janta Party would be seen in the coming years. “I am grateful that the World Bank has recognised that India is now becoming an easier place to do business… I believe that this 12 point movement does not reflect the full pace of reforms that we have done a large number of steps which we have already taken are going to be reflected in the rankings next year. These rankings are only up to June 1 and some of those steps, whose impact is not seen on the ground as yet, have not been factored into this. But I am sure in the years our ranking will
Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign by Ulhas Jewellers & Apollo Hospitals Goa has over the years experienced a rise in the number of cases of cancer especially Breast Cancer. Late Marriage, delayed child bearing, substantial intake of red meat and alcohol and affluent lifestyles has left Goa with a high number of cancer patients per lakh population in the country. While Breast cancer is a growing concern mostly amongst women, in a conservative society, such topics are not openly discussed’ To address this need, Ulhas Jewellers in association with Apollo Victor Hospitals have been making a conscious effort in driving the “Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign” throughout the month of October every year. The objective of the campaign is to raise awareness and break communication barriers on such topics and encourage more people to get them checked and stay physically active
Arun Jaitley
certainly improve.” The Prime Minister has set a target of bringing India among the top 50 in the World Bank ranking of ease of business. Singapore retained the top position, followed by New Zealand and Denmark while African nations were at the last of the 189-nation ranking
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COVER STORY
Thrill of a Deal Nurallah Kamruddin Veljee is a pioneer of the real estate agency business in Goa. Over the years, this go-getter has seen many ups and downs, but nobody has been able to write off his tenacity. In what he calls his ‘second innings’, Nurallah is back to shake the realty market in Goa
W
hen you meet Nurallah Kamruddin Veljee, you can’t but miss the 3As that sum him up – ambition,
aggression and audacity. He has been buying, selling and brokering real estate across Goa for four decades; you can’t but
16 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
wonder what X factor drives this man. “You will be surprised, but I have this mysterious attachment to land and real estate. When
I walk into a property, I can immediately sense whether the deal will click or not. After all these years, I have never
www.businessgoa.in
hankered after money, but the thrill of a deal is what drives me to do what I do. My understanding and knowledge of the real estate business is deep. You take me to any part of Goa and show me a parcel of land, and I can tell you from memory who the owners of the land are. I have spent a lifetime in this business and my greatest assets are my memory and intuition,” he says with pride. It is the same ambition, aggression and audacity that has made him risk his personal savings to start what he calls his ‘second innings’ with a state of the art organization and a swanky 1500 sq ft office at Patto, Panjim’s ultimate business address. “I have always believed that the real estate business suffers from trust deficit. Even when I started my first office near the city courts way back on 15th January 1987, I wanted to tell my clients that here is a real estate agency that is serious about its business. We have a professional establishment. It’s the same principle that I have taken to the next level and the ultimate plan is being put in place – to franchise the brand, SpaceDeal – which I have painstakingly built over the last few decades,” he says. Nurallah Veljee comes from the trading community of Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims. “I come from a well to do business family. My father late Kamruddin Veljee and my brothers command a good name in the market. However, I was always the odd man out. I did things on my own terms. And I am glad I chose to be different. I was always fascinated with land, right from an early age.” As a child in 1967, Nurallah spent most of his time at the family-owned shop that sold footwear, helping his father while his three elder brothers and two sisters studied in schools. He was less interested in academics. Years passed by. He reminisces, “I also took passengers to Kismet Lodge that my father owned in 1971. I worked in the shoe shop till 1982. We decided to renovate Kismet Lodge. Dad handed over the responsibility to me. Kismet Lodge was rebranded as Kismet
Hotel on 8 October 1983. This experience taught me about real estate and litigation problems. I learnt to resolve them. In 1986, dad gave me the shoe shop. I renovated it and called it ‘Vogue Shoes’ and on my next birthday, 15 January 1987. I sold shoes below and spaces above. Now I do only space deals,” he says. “These were early days of real estate development in Panjim,” he adds, as he looks at the journey traversed over the years. “The Kismet Hotel experience was a turning point for me. The contractor who was building our hotel was given the ground floor to meet his costs and make a profit. I helped him meet his target by finding him good buyers. I was then selling real estate from the boot of my car, which was a moving office. I would have plans and property papers neatly stacked in the boot of the car,” he laughs. His first big break happened barely 10 days after hanging his board – Dr Akhtar Hasan Rizvi of Rizvi Builders Mumbai, who was keen to bring his business to Goa, called on a young and restless Nurallah. Rizvi was a close friend of his late brother Adv. Nazim Kamruddin Veljee. “Rizvi was in Goa to scout for property to
construct a hotel. I met him and convinced him to look at real estate development in Panjim. He agreed. Within a few days, I had lined up 11 landlords to meet Rizvi with property papers and within a month, all agreements were signed. By 10 February 1987 Rizvi Towers, Rizvi Chambers and Rizvi Sadan were rolled out,” he explains. Nurallah Veljee had turned rainmaker for Rizvi; and had begun to make ambitious strides in the business of land. “In the real sense of the word, the growth in the real estate business, especially in Panjim had just begun. I was right in the thick of most of the big deals that happened in Goa then,” he adds. Later, Ansals and Jains (Delhi), Pasha (Mumbai). Dr Grover (UK) and Haroon Ibrahim of Magnum (Goa) got added to his list of important clients. The Rizvis have an ongoing tie-up with Nurallah till date. This was Narullah’s official entry into the field with companies like Sita Heritage where he helped them market properties. As Director of Space Constructions, and Budget Homes, he did several prestigious projects. In 1996, the real estate business went into recession.
I have this mysterious attachment to land and real estate. When I walk into a property, I can immediately sense whether the deal will click or not. After all these years, I have never hankered after money, but the thrill of a deal is what drives me to do what I do nurallah veljee Chairman & Managing Director SpaceDeal Pvt. Ltd.
Nurallah’s daughter Yasmin does the honours of inaugurating SpaceDeal’s new corporate office
3 PILLARS OF NURALLAH VELJEE’S business success Marketing Acumen: Nurallah is a big believer in the power of advertising. Right from his early days in business, he spares no expense in making sure that his brand name is visible and the brand promise is spelt out loud and clear. “Top of Mind sells and when one is visible one is successful. Besides, it’s a relationship that you build with your customers. Advertising is all about effective communication. We make promises and we live up to our customer’s expectations. Advertising, to me, is a key fulcrum of success. Service Oriented: “My acumen and sense of property worthiness makes me believe that no deal has to fall through. It should be a win-win situation for all concerned. Even today, I confidently advertise that the deal will materialize within 45 days. I say this with confidence, because there is no better way to conclude a deal other than by understanding the ultimate expectations of all parties involved. Transparency: Nurallah believes that the biggest scourge of the real estate business in Goa has been the fact that brokers have shortchanged both the buyers and sellers by plastering a huge markup on the deal amount, thus bringing disrepute and bad name to the industry. “A few rotten apples have painted the real estate business in poor light,” he says. “I, for my part, have always been comfortable seeing both the parties seat across the table and finalise the deal.” There is no better way in this business than transparency. Win-win is the only way forward. Nurallah went to Mumbai and tied up with Rizvi as property consultant for a few months. Later, in 1997, he opened his office in Mumbai. The thrill of doing real estate deals in the big city gave him a great high “I dealt with lot of disputed property and settled a number of dispute
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 17
COVER STORY
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SpaceDeal’s vision is to be ‘the first among equals as a one stop real estate destination, selling spaces to those seeking places across the entire bandwidth of deals.’ Their team of 22 experienced professionals in key positions, continue to acquire and develop quality properties based on realistic values for the company’s own investment, affiliates, as well as for their joint venture partners
Nurallah’s ambitious stride is backed by his staff and associates
issues for the Rizvis,” he talks about his days in the Maximum City. In 2011-2012, he established his own Nurallah Shopping Arcade on Panjim’s 18th June Road and opened a Bata Showroom selling footwear and accessories. As a keen observer of his business and a consummate player for over four decades, Nurallah’s penchant is for
disputed properties. Strange, but not so strange, if you understand his business logic. “Disputed properties challenge me and I step in to settle matters amicably. Clear-title properties need a lot of investment compared to disputed ones. In case of a dispute, your investment is staggered. One needs patience and tenacity to see the deal go ahead slowly. The investment is sure to yield profits in the long run, provided
one is willing to wait,” he says. This wisdom has come through years of experience to Nurallah and not through any formal education. “We learn from our experiences. Learning and unlearning is what I usually love doing. Life has so much to teach and I am too willing to learn! This learning process started at the age of nine and is still going on. Helping my father at his shoe and crockery shop, made me what I
am,” he says with pride. But all the success and highs don’t come without discipline. He is an early riser and starts work by 7:30 am. He also chooses to meet people early in the day as he believes good work has to be done first thing in the morning. As Goa’s most aggressive full service real estate agency, SpaceDeal interfaces with more than 60 segments under one roof and a huge inventory
Agrarian intervention: Nurallah’s vision for Goa’s agri land bank
N
urallah Veljee has a visionary concept for Goa’s agricultural land bank. He says, “The current availability of land banks in Goa is diminishing due to a plethora of reasons primarily being a lack of trust between stakeholders coupled with agitative politics and environmental objections. However the green field area of an Agrarian Initiative seems unexplored so far. A zone change of land under Section 18K takes years to materialise. Instead of waiting for the zone change and leaving fields barren, groups of farmers are ready to come to Goa and develop the agricultural land on land lease basis. Such projects can be funded by the government and with the aid of paid labourers, free organic
produce will be cultivated. Such an initiative will create a win-win for all stakeholders. • Goa’s natural beauty will remain intact and as the nexus that is illegally turning Goa into a concrete chaos and selling Goa away would be checked.
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• This agrarian initiative would help save the lives of many farmers and help families to get back on their feet. • Encouraging farming of barren cultivable land will help to resonate the emotions of love, peace, and happiness among
Goans. Owners of such land who have similar adjacent plots can start a Joint Venture and come up with co-operative societies for farmers. The land owners together can develop housing boards for the farmers and have them develop their land.” Nurallah is keen to take this idea forward. He feels that this novel Government encouraged agrarian initiative would enable to engage with land owners and initiate the Joint Venture and also get the farmers into a lease agreement with the land owners, which would be beneficial to both the parties. Additionally, the green landscape of Goa and its timeless pristine beauty as also its unique socio-culturally construct would be untouched for years to come
COVER STORY at prime locations for spaces. As a property benchmarking organisation of the total market value, the company scans the entire property bank across Goa. His wife, Doris Theresa Veljee is a Director in the company. His daughter Yasmin Theresa Veljee did the honours of inaugurating his swanky new office, recently. The company’s accomplished team of 22 experienced professionals in key positions, continue to acquire and develop quality properties based on realistic values for its own investment, affiliates, as well as its joint venture partners. These real estate activities take place in targeted sub markets generally focusing on complicated transaction that take advantage of unique opportunities. “We provide all the adjunct services, skills and systems necessary to realize the highest profit performance. We insist
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on only highest standards, using the most sophisticated system and working in an intense but enjoyable environment,” says June Mendes Singh, Business Head at SpaceDeal Pvt. Ltd. “In selling acreage and peripheral assets, Mr. Veljee will not bend the truth to make a sale as he believes in working hard at something he loves. With people, trust is one of the greatest experiences in life. He loves to
As Goa’s most aggressive full service real estate agency, SpaceDeal interfaces with more than 60 segments under one roof and a huge inventory at prime locations for spaces. As a property benchmarking organisation of the total market value, the company scans the entire property bank across Goa nurallah veljee
Franchise Creation: SpaceDeal’s Brainchild A s the pioneers in real estate agency business, SpaceDeal Pvt Ltd is keen to franchise its brand across the state for better synergy. “We have a fool-proof franchise model wherein, as principals, we will bring in professionalism and systems. Our franchise holders will benefit from our resource base and market understanding; and of course, the brand recognition, says Nurallah. With a small investment, one can be a franchisee of SpaceDeal. This unique initiative will
enable multiple entries into the lucrative real estate space which is otherwise dominated by a few key players leading to lopsided growth, he says. Three SpaceDeal Property Hubs will be opening in Goa shortly at Vasco, Margao and Panjim and finalisation of other franchise centres are on the anvil. “With proven business formats, method of operations, product know-how, service, marketing and a unique built in package of promotion, the SpaceDeal franchisee will link to multi-utility business benefits, all
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in one go. In addition, SpaceDeal will act as a support hub and a franchisee will enjoy the multiple advantages of brand recognition, networking, as also earning while training,” says Nurallah. SpaceDeal has a business vision of inviting entrepreneurs and long term investors, to engage them to bring in best practices and thereby uplift the lucrative real estate sector. Besides joining hands as Franchisee Partner, an innovative concept which is one of its kinds for Goa’s real estate industry, it gives an added boost to an indeed vital part of the Goa’s
help his customers find a house that can become a happy home. He is proud to offer what he feels are the finest spaces in the country as he believes that the business can be successful for generations only if we continue a tradition of trust,” adds Singh. From its humble beginnings in the quaint Latin quarter of Panjim, SpaceDeal Pvt Ltd has today made a space in everyone’s mind as ‘The one stop real estate destination.’ Offering a wide range of real estate solutions across the entire bandwidth pan-India, overseas and Goa, the company has tieups with some of the best and reputed real estate developers in Goa. Nurallah says that the company’s mission is “to be the first amongst equals as a one stop real estate destination, selling spaces to those seeking places across the entire bandwidth of deals”
capital economy. In addition, its online integration provides dynamic layers of extraordinary technology, tools for exposing its listings to maximise prospects backed by excellent back office support. Based on the initial investment and experience the Categories of the franchisee available are Platinum, Gold, and Silver. Besides, there are options to own a Franchisee in one’s own place of choice among the 18 centres in Goa or 18 across centres across India
FESTIVE SPECIAL
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JOY OF DIWALI The ‘Festival of Lights’ is here. The celebrations have started in Goa
D
Diwali Special
iwali, the festival of lights is celebrated with great joy all around India. The festival is celebrated in Goa along with Laxmi Pujan and Bhau-beej and heralds a new beginning to many businesses and trading concerns. In Goa, huge effigies of Narkasura, the demon are made and burnt at dawn. The night of Diwali is also bejewelled with millions of flickering candles and an explosion of fireworks and fire crackers. The lamps signify enlightenment or upliftment of the mind and edification of the spirit. Diwali typically lasts for four days in Goa, with each having a different significance for local families. For instance, Bhau
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Beej is observed two days after and signifies a bond of respect between brothers and sisters. Deepavali (the main Diwali celebration) is when families come together to celebrate their love for one another. One of the main events to look out for in the run up to Diwali itself is the parade of Narakasura effigies. People from all over the state make their own likeness of the demon, with these large creations paraded through the streets. There are usually prizes awarded to those who have made the best Narakasuras, and at dawn on Diwali days, all the effigies are burnt – symbolically to convey the victory of good over evil. Legends say that
‘Narakasura’ was a demon who was terrorizing the people. He used to come down to the villages and capture and kill the citizens. Lord Krishna killed him and freed people from his terrorism. Till this time there was no peace because of the people’s fear of the Narakasura. With his killing, people were in a celebratory mood. In Goa ‘Narak Chaturdashi’ is celebrated as Diwali. On this day, early morning, a paper made Narkasur filled with grass, wastepaper, crackers etc is taken out and to the accompaniment of taunts and insults, burnt and cremated. A lot of money is sometimes spent on making these effigies as some institutions conduct
FESTIVE SPECIAL
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Diwali is a very special time not just in Goa, but all over India and in Hindu communities around the world. This festival is very family-focused
Diwali Special
Narakasura competitions and give away cash prizes for the best made one. The effigy of Narkasur is then taken in a procession and later burnt at dawn amidst a lot of firework display to begin the festival of Diwali. Early on Diwali day, after burning the Narakasura, the Hindu men folk will return to their homes to be massaged by their wives / mothers with the same type oil and ‘utnem’. The family then visits the local temple and returns to a similar feast of ‘fov’ (parched rice) and sweets. People clean their houses and adorn it with mango leaves, marigold flowers and lighted lamps. Festivities include the lighting up of ceremonial torches which
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are the symbol of spiritual enlightenment, dancing on live coals, fireworks, and family celebrations replete with gifts. Wherever you’re staying in Goa, take the time to simply wander around the town or village and soak up the atmosphere. Everyone is happy and in a party mood, while the lanterns and candles that burn bright outside every temple, home and shop are a stunning sight. Diwali is also about sharing with neighbours, friends and family, with plenty of delicious sweet treats cooked up in preparation. Try to sample the likes of neuri and ladoos if you can – these traditional sweets are made especially for this
festival and so tasting them is a wonderful way to really get into the spirit of the event. In the evening, once night has fallen, the skies above Goa are lit up by a succession of firework displays. Dazzling colours and bright lights illuminate the heavens, while the candles and lanterns twinkle in the streets. Diwali is a very special time not just in Goa, but all over India and in Hindu communities around the world. While there are aspects of the festival that are very family-focused, the main events are free for all to attend. If you are going to be in Goa during Diwali, be respectful and simply observe the celebrations, soaking up the sights, sounds and
FESTIVE SPECIAL
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The skies above Goa are lit up by a succession of firework displays. Dazzling colours and bright lights illuminate the heavens, while the candles and lanterns twinkle in the streets
Diwali Special
smells of this incredible time of the year. You will see competitions wherein the best decorated effigies and displays are rewarded. Known for being the ultimate trance music destination, Goa also sees a number of nightclubs hosting Diwali parties with EDM, cocktails, and fun. The eve of Diwali 2015 witnessed the state getting into festive mood with people flocking to markets for last-minute purchases. The substantial hike in the prices of commodities right from gold and electronic goods to cloths and sweets however, did not dampen the festive spirit of the people. The Hindu households in rural as well as urban areas were seen decorated with fresh coat
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of paint, clay lamps illuminated with oil, attractive aakash kandils or sky lanterns perched atop the houses, colourful patterns as well as designs of rangolis, and series of electrical lights. Laxmi Pujan, the event paying obeisance to the goddess of wealth will celebrated on 11 November, while Bhaubeej, an integral part of Diwali and an occasion strengthening the bond of brother-sister relationship will be observed on
13 November. Vhadli Diwali, which marks the end of Diwali festival, is observed during the Kartik Shukla Paksha Ekadasi to Kartik Purnima – from the eleventh day to the full moon day during the waxing phase of moon in Kartik Month. In 2015, it is from November 22 to November 25. The most important ritual during the period is the Tulshiche Lagn or the Tulsi Vivah. Another important festival that is observed during the period is Tripurari Purnima. Lamps are lit on the day which falls on the full moon day in Kartik Month. The marriage season commences after this period in all regions in western parts of India
FOCUS GOA
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Train to stay ahead of the curve
Organisations are turning to corporate trainers to upgrade the skillsets of their employees says MEENAL BALE
T
raining is a structured and focussed oriented method that allows you to gain information in depth, explore opportunities to enhance you competencies, build self confidence and improve your skills. In corporates, more weightage is given to your soft skills than the academic qualifications. Grooming and etiquette is a sector that is largely being explored where employees can be trained on how to be presentable and create a lasting impression. Knowing how to dress well, gives you an edge over others. Being an all-rounder helps, as it is the potential of an individual to settle into the existing work culture that the employers seek; their ability to interact, socialize and network plays a crucial role. Surveys have proved that be it an individual, a department or an industry – for an organization to succeed, training is a must. In terms of inter-personal communications, telephone or email etiquette, client and customer service, or even operations and administration; when an employee is hired, he/ she acts as a brand ambassador, a representative of the organization. Goa offers an array of venues in terms of infrastructures for training, right from lavish lawns at resorts for an overnight, to a well priced banquet hall for a one day programme. Depending on the various factors involved, such as the number of participants, the location, the company, the topic and nature of the training, etc; on an average, beginning with a Rs.
Senior corporate trainer Leslie Menezes engages with his audience
Kanan Tandi Certified Behaviour Analyst and Founder Body Speaks Better
2,000/- for a couple of hours to a full day training session, the cost can go upto a lakh of Rupees. There are also many associations in Goa that provide a platform for experts to share their knowledge, experiences and to interact with fellow trainers of the community. There exists the Goa HR Forum, National Institute of Personnel Management (NIPM),
Imagine a company having all the employees performing equally good, wouldn’t that benefit the organization in terms of its productivity? In a non-verbal communication, it means that 93% of the conversation includes body language, gestures, postures, expressions and the rest 7% is words. Right from behaviour analysis, emotional intelligence, core competency enhancement, trust building, body language decoding; the training areas are designed to improve the employee’s competency Toastmaster’s Club, Trainer’s Association and more. The higher and diverse the work experience, the greater the expectations from trainers. Identifying the weak spots in an organization and channelling resources to overcome them is a focus area that Human Resources departments of organizations continuously strives to attain. To source experts in various fields and ensure that the employees
The content for the training depends upon the pre-identified query from the organization, depending on the end goal that they wish to achieve. A trainer can customize his module across multiple arenas in the time slot allotted. Right from inter-departmental communications, brainstorming sessions on sales and marketing, ways of cost cutting, presentation skills, time management, leadership and personality development, to work ethics and team building, the list is endless. For employees working at the call centre, voice and accent training can be extremely vital Andre Shackleton Chrysalis Trainers 28 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
are engaged, nurtured, and the thinking processes as well as the job roles are well defined so that an employee is retained in good faith. Learning is a never ending process. The more you learn, the better equipped you are to face situations. Life in the corporate world is very competitive; the staff at the ground level need to be on their toes to achieve their targets, but the senior members and executives too, need to
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You have to take into consideration the density of business organizations as well as the general population. A good corporate trainer specializes in one particular area. Goa being a small state with lesser number of organizations that house the right mind-set of engaging outside experts for training in specific areas, the demand is comparatively less and hence one has to look out for clients outside Goa dr. Pradeep Salgaonkar corporate trainer in Customer Care and Service SALDOTS Academy
remain ahead of the curve. ‘How to maintain decorum in a meeting’, ‘How to delegate
work’, ‘How to ensure that every member in your team is a contributor’, a training can
either be engaged to upgrade a pre-requisite or to empower and hone the pre-existing skills of an
individual. Does Goa have a huge demand for corporate training? One could say yes, going by the number of training events that are held here. Apart from being a favoured spot for corporate outbound trainings for organizations based out of Goa, it is definitely developing. With international events being hosted in the state, the niche market, which is still in its maiden stage, is yet to evolve into a full-fledged industry
In metro cities, many top organizations have dedicated training and development departments that systematically plan for corporate training with a long term goal of developing and engaging employees. In Goa, currently, only a handful of progressive thinking organizations have understood the importance that training interventions play in transforming the attitudes and competencies of employees. Unfortunately, many organizations go in for a reactive approach and think of conducting trainings for employees only when things go wrong Amey Hegde Freelance Corporate Trainer
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 29
STARTING YOUNG Sangam Pai Dhungat
‘We built every corner, every pillar from scratch. Hospitality being a delicate industry, I had to make sure that everything was perfect. Coming from an engineering background, I never imagined taking a leap into something completely unknown to me. But once the idea grew in my head, I had to make it happen. When we finally froze upon an outline, I realized the vast efforts that would be needed to execute this project on ground,” says Sangam
Voltaire
Focussed on Dining
Sangam Pai Dhungat
A
sk any Goan what is the first thing that comes to their mind when you say the word ‘Voltaire’ and they will very elaborately describe the typical reclining chair that depicts Goa’s ‘Sussegad’ lifestyle. Launched this August, ‘Voltaire’ is a restaurant situated amidst the scenic surrounding of Reis Magos, a restaurant that serves authentic Goan food and is a paradigm of the distinctive Goan lifestyle as well as the signature cuisine. Proprietor Sangam Pai Dhungat recollects how it took him over two years to build this entity from scratch. “The venture itself was more of an instinctive urge to do something different than a planned enterprise. After completing my education in engineering, I joined my father in the family-owned hardware business. I had no intention of venturing into the hospitality industry. But it happened about three years ago when I came home from work and sat down for lunch,” says Sangam. The ‘Eureka’ moment struck Sangam when he wondered aloud: “If I can savour home-made Goan cuisine and relive all the memories attached to it, then why not create a set up that would make others feel the same way, and capitalize on it? The very next day, I sat down with my architect friends Teja and Yatin
MEENAL BALE profiles this young resto-startup entrepreneur and his passion for the venture
Voltaire
Launched this August, ‘Voltaire’ is a restaurant situated amidst the scenic surrounding of Reis Magos, a restaurant that serves authentic Goan food and is a paradigm of the distinctive Goan lifestyle as well as its signature cuisine Falari and began planning this restaurant that would re-create an ambience to cherish, and serve food to relish,” he adds. Voltaire has a widespread menu, from delicious prawn curry, to xacuti, ‘tisryanche dangger’ (clam cutlets) and a unique family recipe of stuffed squids. “Although my core idea was to serve authentic Goan food, we had to go through a process of tasting, sampling and standardizing the menu. Besides, making sure that the fish catch is nothing but fresh. My mother and sister help out in the operations by supervising the recipes in the kitchen, to make sure that the customer savours a homelike culinary experience,” claims Sangam. Voltaire is situated in what was an old unused warehouse of the Pai Dhungat family. But there
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was a lot of civil and architectural work involved to bring the place to habitable shape. “We built every corner, every pillar from scratch. Hospitality being a delicate industry, I had to make sure that everything was perfect. Coming from an engineering background, I never imagined taking a leap into something completely unknown to me. But once the idea grew in my head, I had to make it happen. When we finally froze upon an outline, I realized the vast efforts that would be needed to execute this project on ground,” Sangam says. From studying the possible kitchen layouts, trying various combinations for the operations, laying out the infrastructure, hand-picking customized furniture, recruiting efficient staff and most importantly, brainstorming to create a concept that would appeal to all; the amount of efforts and creativity that has gone into the planning and makeover, has greatly contributed in making Voltaire a visual delight! And the food being delicious is definitely an added bonus. The architecture of the place is spread across two storeys. The seating is well planed and spread out with ageold wooden chairs that gives the place an old world sort of charm. There also exists a verandah in the front and one at the back, where more quiet and private
functions could be hosted, accommodating from 80 to 100 guests. “I took it very slow to make sure that the end result was the best. It took me a while, but today with the final outcome, all the efforts have paid off,” says Sangam proudly. Overlooking the riverside at Reis Magos, Voltaire draws in quite a varied crowd who are keen to sample authentic Goan food. There is also a multi-cuisine menu, should guests want to sample the same. “Being in the pilot phase, I didn’t make the entire menu public. We didn’t want any food being wasted. We kept the menu limited until the crowd began floating in,” he adds. Voltaire is yet to adopt a full-fledged marketing campaign. They have neither listed themselves on food apps nor designed a website. The only kind of marketing or advertising has been via personalized invites to friends and family. “I am surprised how quickly the place has picked up; and I am really glad that the customers are kind enough to give us genuine reviews, while simultaneously being appreciative of our efforts,” says Sangam. Looking forward, Sangam says that for the time being, he only hopes that patrons keep coming back for more. After all, the tagline sums it all Voltaire ‘Drink, Dine, Recline’
Actual Site Image
Caculo Ford has 155 staff across all outlets who handle sales, marketing and service combined. The showroom at Panaji is a ‘Sales Only’ outlet,
ENTERPRISE Caculo Ford
Caculo and Ford: A bond held over a century
Mahadeva Sinai Bobo Caculo brought the Ford dealership to Goa a century ago. Today, his family continues to carry on the ideals of sales and service with the same commitment and belief that the ‘Customer is King’ writes MEENAL BALE
F
ord is a brand that spells trust, quality, excellence and value for money in the automobile industry. The same values are upheld right here in Goa by their sales and service dealers – Caculo Ford. Mangesh Dalvi, Vice President at Caculo Ford, is all excited about the launch of three advanced models with srong value propositions in the automobile market and a glimpse of the company’s future plans. “The new Ford Figo is grander in terms of looks and the features are different. The pricing too, is more aggressive and looking at the booking trends in the market, it has been well accepted,” says Manguesh. “The Ford Aspire is a sedan with good boot space, loaded with features similar to Figo and the price equation is correct, too. The Ford EcoSport has received great success since its launch in July 2013, for almost two years, it has been a novelty. With the features of a luxury car, it has an in built rain and light sensor, and classy leather upholstery. Despite the onslaught of competition, the demand has sustained. The former two have just been launched, but the EcpSport, we have about 800 plus units on
The Caculo Group was founded by late Mahadeva Sinai Bobo Caculo in the early 1900s. The family has partnered Ford as a dealer since 1910, until 1961 (liberation of Goa). When Ford came back to India in 1997, they again chose to partner us in Goa
Manoj caculo
chairman, caculo group
road in Goa, doing very well,” he adds. Ford has created a niche segment of urban SUV by launching the EcoSport. It has its own set of followers and customers who have purchased it, who are extremely satisfied. “It has excellent features in terms of safety, driving pleasure, cost of ownership and value for money. The testimonials, references and recommendations given by
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our existing customers are our credentials” claims Mangesh. “The Indian market is sensitive to pricing and the industry growth of four door cars is 19% and greater in terms of sales. Today, the EcoSport is fast selling, but there is definitely more scope for the newly launched Figo in the future,” he adds. “The Caculo Group of Companies was founded by late Mahadeva Sinai Bobo Caculo in the early 1900s. The family has partnered Ford as a dealer since 1910, until 1961 (liberation of Goa). When Ford came back to India in 1997, they again chose to tie-up with us as regional partners,” says Manoj Caculo, Chairman of the Group. “Manoj Caculo’s farsighted vision and Managing Director Suraj Caculo’s hands-on expertise in the auto sector, has been instrumental in bringing the dealership to a level of excellence,” says Manguesh. Caculo Ford has 155 staff across all outlets who handle sales, marketing and service combined. The showroom at Panaji is a ‘Sales Only’ outlet, whereas the facility at Verna houses a ‘3S’ facility – Sales,
Service and Spares; a huge showroom with 30 plus bay workshops. “Earlier in March this year, we launched a new concept of ‘Quick Lane’ in Mapusa to cater to our customers in North Goa. We conducted a survey and gauged that our customers found it hectic to travel all the way to Verna only for the servicing of their cars,” states Manguesh. Based out of the Thivim Industrial Estate, this is a ‘Service Only’ centre that promises a 90 mins delivery for any preventive maintenance servicing of the car. “Customers are appreciating the efforts undertaken by us to deliver enhanced service. Earlier, they had to take the car to a local garage for servicing. But now, with the company’s presence in the locality, it is already proving to be a grand success within a short time span,” he adds. Manguesh explains that although the market scenario has not been very encouraging for the entire auto sector over the last two years, Caculo Ford has retained their market position in Goa for two major reasons – Firstly, Ford has worldwide presence and over a century of experience in manufacturing different products as per the
whereas the facility at Verna houses a ‘3S’ facility – Sales, Service and Spares; a huge showroom with 30 plus bay workshops.
need of the market. Secondly, Caculo itself is a trusted Goan brand in the automobile industry for years. Both these factors and Caculo’s commitment to live up to service standards has augured well for the dealership. “Over time, people have experienced the products as well as the service and we have successfully built a huge base of loyal as well as repeat customers,” claims Manguesh. Elaborating on the revenue model, Manguesh states that it is a 50:50 ratio “The Service Absorption Ratio has to be maintained. Usually, the entire service should take care of sales aspect but since the car value is higher, may be selling a certain number of units will cost higher. Where as in terms of service, the revenue per car is not as high. However, at the end of the day, the volumes equal out.” At Caculo Group of Companies, each business has a separate head with complete
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Earlier this year, Caculo Ford launched a new concept of ‘Quick Lane’ at Mapusa to cater to their customers in North Goa. A survey told them that their customers found it hectic to travel all the way to Verna to service their vehicles
accountability. The business models are very different and various dynamic components are given importance. “As far as competition is concerned, we stand apart,” claims Manguesh. “At Caculo Ford, we believe in the saying that ‘Customer is King’. Customers today are well informed and have a wide choice. They look forward to the best product and more importantly, service. If we offer
good service, the customer will definitely return, it is the simple truth,” says Mangesh. Opining on the future scope for the automobile industry in Goa Mangesh says “As per the available statistics, every other household in Goa owns a two or a four wheeler. If you already have a car, it ages and needs to be replaced. This improves the scope for the used car market as well as gives impetus to the
market for new cars. In future, there is a high possibility for two mature markets to run side by side.” On a conclusive note he states that if yesterday the market was down, tomorrow it will rise; it is a continuous business cycle. “Ford always has a good portfolio ready in hand to keep the competition going in the industry. In future, there are high chances of new addition of models in various brackets, in terms of features, car size and price”
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 33
INTERVIEW OF THE MONTH
Narayan r. Bandekar President, Goa Mining Association
The tax structure should be made compatible with the export-sale price for operations to resume smoothly Narayan Bandekar was recently re-elected as President of Goa Mining Association. Here he explains the way forward for the mining business in Goa reasonable levels to make mining and exports of iron ore viable. I am afraid any delay in government action may result not only in delay in re-starting, but may even lead to retrenchment and thereby create chaos that could impact the e c o n o m y adversely.
When is mining really going to start in the right earnest in Goa? I think so far as the mining companies are concerned, most of them with all the required permissions in hand are ready in all respects to start, as the monsoon has ended. However the high tax structure both from the State and the Centre vis-a-vis the crash in prices in the international market is a daunting factor that discourages the long awaited start of mining operations. The industry through its Associations including GMOEA and GCCI have made representations before the Centre and State governments for restructuring taxation to
How would the petition filed in the Supreme Court by Goa Foundation challenging the renewal of 88 mining leases, impact the resumption of mining in the state? The Hon. Supreme Court in its Order dated 21.4.14, against the vociferous demand from the Petitioner for cancellation of all leases, has held that the State Government is empowered to deal with the renewals. Looking at the Order of the same Bench a month later, wherein the Apex Court in identical situation allowed renewal of mining leases in Orissa for 2nd and 3rd renewals and later the Hon. High Court of Bombay at Goa interpreting the said Order has concluded that the Apex Court has not barred renewal of leases and directed the State Government to decide renewals of the pending applications within 3 months from its Order dated 13.8.14. The State Govt has taken much more time and acted as late as December 2014 in compliance of the High Court Order, perhaps to
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carefully put all legal and control systems in place. Now that the legal statutes and control systems are in place, with my positive outlook I personally do not feel any threat of an adverse Order from the Apex court to impact en masse resumption of mining in the State this time, unlike the earlier one in which the Petitioner succeeded Ex-parte vide interim Order on 5.10.12 inspite of the State and Central Government’s action in suspending the entire mining operations including transportation and keeping in abeyance of Enironmetal Clearances (EC) of all mining leases w.e.f September 12-14 of 2012 following Justice Shah Commission’s Report. The e-auction of the ore by the Government has received a lukewarm response from the buyers. What do you propose that the Government should do to clear this inventory? (i) Reduction in base price (ii) Reduction in taxes If you look at the international price which has crashed to its 1/3rd, the overall taxes have not only remained same but have been increased. Goa’s ore is not consumable locally and has to be exported. It is imperative that the tax levy should be reasonably structured to make the industry viable as it generates fairly large direct and indirect employment. Another alternative is that the State Govt should approach the Supreme Court to allow sale to the respective mining companies to whom the ore belongs, who then will be directly responsible for its lifting. This will automatically clear stacking space constraints as it is seen that major chunk of ores purchased by 3rd parties
has not been lifted yet. This has kept the limited stacking space blocked and will hamper stacking of fresh production by lessees all poised to begin operations. Vedanta started its mining operations recently. Which other companies have followed suit? I am happy that Vedanta has commenced operations and I have congratulated them on its very first day, they require certain grade ore to keep their sponge Iron Plant operational. It will help employment and also the State’s economy. I wish others follow soon. However most of the lessees, more than 50, have all the requisite permissions in their hands and are ready, what holds them back is the high taxes including export duty visa-a-vis international price drop. Needless to say in any business, viability is the factor of essence; mining is not an exception. Once the tax structure is made compatible in relation with the export-sale price that has crashed to its ebb, operations will resume. The cap on mining has been lowered down considerably. Do you think that the mining business will ever be the same again in Goa? Let me take you back to the mining initiation era in Goa. Mining in Goa is an age old activity initiated 3 generation ago by the visionary forefathers of Goa’s mining companies, with their passion for mining from late 1940s by foot access and manual digging. They later went on to develop scientific and methodical mining by availing guidance / services of Japanese experts at a cost of sweat and colossal investment for sustainable
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mining on long term basis. Till about 2000, Goa’s production was about 30 million tonnes and it was well regularized and systematic; and all stakeholders were happy. Over the past five decades and their consistent, dedicated endeavours came to establish trust, confidence and trade relationship with steel mills mainly in Japan, S. Korea, and over the last 10-12 years with China where the ore was exported, there being no demand for Goa’s Iron Ore being of inferior grade. Goan Iron Ore Mining and export has earned considerable revenue to the State and a huge valuable Foreign Exchange during late 1970s - 90s when the Nation was starved of the same. Mining remained the backbone of Goan economy for more than five decades. It is from 2002-03, that unprecedented spurt in export price attracted unscrupulous fly-by-night operators / traders
If you look at the international price which has crashed to its 1/3rd, the overall taxes have not only remained same but have been increased. Goa’s ore is not consumable locally and has to be exported. It is imperative that the tax levy should be reasonably structured to make the industry viable as it generates fairly large direct and indirect employment greedy to make a quick buck, brought heavy toll on the environment resulting in its suspension of operations by Government followed by the Apex Court in SeptemberOctober 2012 that created
catastrophic effect on the State’s economy, crippling all sectors involved. I believe the CEC appointed by the Supreme Court has recently recommended raise up to 30 million tons per annum. I am of the opinion that the Cap of 20-30 million is appropriate to maintain sustainable mining under the existing environment infrastructure. This can be later revised depending on the infrastructure development like mining corridors, aforestation, macro level rain water harvesting, water management technology etc. What are your prime objectives for this term as President of Goa Mining Association? After 3 long years of closure the enthusiasm that had been regained on lifting of ban by the Supreme Court in April 2014, followed by renewals, has however dampened the spirit of
the stakeholders, partly by some of the provisions of the MMDR Amendment Act 2015, increase in taxes by the Central and State Governments, in relation to the export sale price. As President of the Association, my prime objective is to see that the mining business becomes viable. At present there are so many constraints and obstacles those need to be tackled like prohibition on dumping outside the lease area in the MMDR Amendment Act 2015 which hampers production, high tax structure that need to be reasonably lowered due to drastic fall in international price since majority of Goa’s ore is exported. All this needs to be sorted by dialogue with the Government and I am hopeful of a positive and pragmatic cooperation for the viability and survival of this historical, age old and traditional mining industry in Goa
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INTERVIEW
SHIVANAND V. SALGAOCAR President, GMOEA
The biggest bottleneck is the ore which has been purchased by traders and has still not been lifted from jetties or mines When will mining resume in the right earnest in Goa? Majority of the mining companies have resumed preparatory mining operations but fresh production would start by November.
GMOEA
OFFICE BEARERS Shivanand Salgaocar, Managing Director of V M Salgaocar Group of Companies, was recently reelected unanimously as President of Goa Mineral Ore Exporters’ Association (GMOEA) – the main trade body of ore exporters in the state. GMOEA was set up in 1963 to promote the export trade of mineral ores in Goa and to safeguard the interest of exporters in the state. The new committee of office bearers for the 2013-15 was elected unanimously at the 50th annual general meeting of GMOEA recently. The other office bearers of GMOEA are: Nathan Chowgule (Vice-President), Ambar Audhut Timblo (Honorary Secretary), Madhukar Mallya (Honorary Treasurer) and Narayan Rajaram Bandekar, Radha Satish Timblo, Suvarn Rajaram Bandekar, P K Mukerjee and Pramod Unde as members
What are the bottlenecks that you wish are cleared as we look at the resumption of mining in the State? i) Removal of Auctioned ore The biggest bottleneck is the auctioned / inventorised ore which has been purchased by the traders has still not been lifted by them either from jetties or mines. Unless this ore is moved, stock piling of fresh ores for onward sales maybe difficult. Also the Government needs to come out with a policy of large quantity on the un-sold ores which are still occupying jetties and mines. ii) Withdrawal of Export Duty on Low Grade Iron Ore The withdrawal of export duty of 10% on low grade ores is essential. There has been a meltdown in commodity prices and iron ore is a commodity that has seen among the largest falls. Despite the global iron market already being in oversupply and demand stagnating, large incremental volumes of 80120 million tons of low cost iron ore are being added annually by new/expansion projects from the major suppliers in Australia and Brazil who have made huge investments in expanding capacity during the previous
Shivanand V Salgaocar
years. The market for iron ore is projected to be depressed over the next few years. iii) Dumping outside Mining Lease The Goan iron ore mining, being
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more than six decades old, presently operates at an average strip ratio (waste to ore ratio) of 4 from a limited individual lease areas of not more than 100 Ha, being mostly mineralized. Hence such statutory prohibition
of stacking/dumping of waste materials to areas (with surface rights belonging to the lessees) outside the mining leases would technically lead to complete stoppage of ore production/ mining. This obviously calls for an urgent and immediate amendment of the Section 4 and 9 of the MMDR Act to authorise such waste management activity under the Act – as already required under the prevailing subordinate rules
INTERVIEW
Andrew David Fernandes, D’ziners
Suit up with the D’ziners
MEENAL BALE interviews Andrew David Fernandes, the mastermind behind D’ziners - ‘Where Fashion Begins’ ; one of the most competitive and quality conscious brands in men’s designer wear – ethnic and western formals. How did the journey of D’ziners begin? My father was a tailor. Due to his early demise in 1985, I had to take over the business in Bombay and my responsibilities began when I was 18 years old. He had a small shop in the central suburbs called ‘Johnny Tailors’ which I renamed to ‘Johnny’s Creations’ after he passed away. But being a Goan, the pull towards home was much stronger. I decided to return to Goa in 1997 and that is when ‘Dziners’ was born. We started off with a minimal investment and today work from three outlets, catering to customers in South as well as North Goa. In Panjim, the store opened in November 2014. In Calangute it is a franchise that was started 5 years ago; whereas our first store was in Margao, started 18 years back. What has been your USP? What makes a customer come back for more? We Goans love to dress up and know exactly how to grace an occasion. No Goan will go for a function with old clothes, and that is how, in his lifetime, one ends up having at the least 15-20 suits in his wardrobe. When I came down from Bombay, I surveyed the market and realized that the cost of stitching itself was what I would sell an entire suit for; as others would sell suits for a very high price. And more over, it would take a month to be ready. No wonder the people hardly owned 1-2 suits, because there were no tailors who could deliver instant suits for a reasonable price. I believe that our ways of operating and work ethics, have made us a revolutionary brand to have carried tailoring to this level. We have been pioneers in trendsetting and popularizing personalized made-to-order suits. In readymade garments, the variety is limited. You are forced to buy a piece because
of the need, even if you do not like the fit. Whereas here, you can mix and match and own a different piece every time you stitch with us. Tell us about your team... We are always brainstorming to create new designs for each season, because we truly believe in customer satisfaction. If the customer does not like the end product, we make another one; but we ensure that when the customer leaves the store, he has a smile on his face and is satisfied with his purchase. Every design, every product has a finesse and can be customized according to the customer’s taste. In a competitive industry, it is essential to employ hardworking staff with the right attitude towards work as well as people. From sales to manufacturing, we have different knowledge experts at different domains. We even have a quality inspection department to keep a regular tab on the finished products that go out. The strength of the staff depends on the load of work during the season and offseason time; the skilled labour is recruited from out of state, but the sales staff is Goan. Together we are a team, one big happy family. How do you market? What are the different schemes? Our marketing strategy is simple. Give the customer exquisite quality at a reasonable price, and he will return. We treat every single customer as a friend and make sure that his requirements are met; we make him feel at home. The business has expanded mostly due to word of mouth. Customers see our work, like it and refer us to their family and friend circle. Over a period of time, we have succeeded in
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establishing goodwill and earning the trust of our clients. We even have people coming down all the way from Bangalore and the UK to get suits stitched by us. We have multiple schemes – 3 pants for a price of Rs. 1,899/and 3 shirts for a competitive price of Rs. 2,000/- of different colours, for any measurements in the family. Business thrives during the festival and wedding times. During the monsoons, we stock more of the ready-made products. If a customer wants a suit in one day, we can promptly deliver it. Why the D’ziners with a ‘z’? The name is inspired by the D’Souzas and the D’Silvas; I wanted a Goan flavour to the name. Grammatically, it is pronounced as ‘Designers’, but I chose to design our logo with a ‘z’. I wanted to ensure instant brand recall; even when you were on the highway, driving at a speed, it should catch your attention and remind you of our existence What makes D’ziners stand apart? The market has become extremely competitive and with the amount of imitation, we are always on our feet introducing something new and innovative. Our greatest asset is our ability to deliver a suit in 12 hours. We use different kinds of fabrics, some
imported from India and some, even from abroad. We have linen for the summers, wool for the winters and polyester viscose for all seasons. We can even create a suit out of jute and denim and we also make blazers, trousers and corduroy pants. We make all kinds of Indian as well as western wear for men – from Jodhpuris, Shervanis, Kurta Pyjamas to Tuxedo suits, party wear, blazers, formal as well as executive suits. We have also undertaken orders for company suits from corporates, it is a complete one stop shop. Apart from these, we also stock accessories – belts, cuff links, ties, tie pins, turbans; everything that one would need to accompany our creation. What inspires you in designing? I am a very spiritual person and believe in starting the day with the blessings of the lord almighty. I juggle my days between the Panjim and the Margao stores, making trips every alternate day. My wife Sally, and daughter Drewsall who has completed her fashion designing course and I sit together and discuss the new possible designs that could be presented. When I create a design, I will first analyze if it will suit me. How do I like it, will I wear it myself? Many a times, the customers’ like my choice. There are suits sold right from `2,500/- to `10,000/- The fastest selling this season is the silvery grey. What are you plans for expansion? Currently, we have also ventured into ladies wear under the brand ‘Andy David’ where we house all sorts of ladies wear, both Indian as well as western. We have bridal gowns, lehengas, formal suits and party wear. In future, we wish to continue serving more people, while retaining our quality and customer service
Industry gauri falari
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shantadurga concretes
Every path is paved with a dream
MEENAL BALE writes about Gauri Falari’s strides in the world of pavers and tiles Gauri Falari
Shantadurga Concretes has reached this far purely by wordof-mouth publicity and personal recommendation of our existing clients, which are currently tier 5 plus. Till date, we have only participated in one exhibition. For us, every client, every order is important, be it a 20mts stretch outside a small shop, or the exterior of a vast showroom
C
arving out a formidable reputation for a highend quality product in a male dominated occupation is a soft spoken person who firmly believes that gender doesn’t make a difference when it comes to leading a business to prosperity. The proprietor of Shantadurga Concretes, where ‘Paving experiences go beyond your expectations’ – Samira Falari, alias Gauri. Gauri is obsessed with executing each task with the minutest of details, be it finalizing the process of time taken for a mould to be cast that leads to mass production of paver blocks, experimenting with different types of colours available, or even the administration and the operations aspect. She needs to be in control of the entire business. Having completed her Bachelors in Ayurveda, Gauri initially worked as an assistant at the Mapusa Clinic in 2003. When marriage happened in 2004, she joined her husband Samir in his family business, Sagar Cashew Industry. This was followed by being involved hands-on in Kwality Blocks, a unit that undertakes manufacturing of concrete blocks. “I had no background of commerce and
Name: Shantadurga Pavers Industry: Pavers Proprietor: Samira Falari (alias Gauri) Established in: October 2010 Registered: Under PMEGP Scheme Current Turnover: `50 lakhs yet I handled the accounts and marketing. It was all a learning phase for me and this is where I first got exposure to the world of concretes,” she says. Shantadurga Concretes came into existence due to the huge demand of paving products in the market. “Our block suppliers and even our clients were looking out for somebody who could supply quality paver materials. During that time, I visited a unit at Mangalore – this was the aaha moment for me. And when you like something, you always keep an eye out for opportunities in that field. That is when we identified the need for a quality product in Goa and decided to go ahead with the business plan. Of course, it was a capital intensive project,” she recollects. Gauri obtained a loan from the Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) scheme facilitated by the Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce (DITC). The one
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thing that went in her favour was that a little personal investment, the project could be established. “The venture required about 5% of personal investment and 95% was loaned to us. There already existed a market and the field was known to me. We had our own shed to start production. Most of the capital was invested in the installation of the machinery and creating infrastructure. The unit was first approved by DITC – they studied the viability of the project and in October 2010, we started with full-fledged production from Nanoda,” says Gauri. “Blocks is a simpler process, pavers is complex. During construction the blocks get hidden, whereas the pavers are exposed. You need to make a detailed study of how and where it will be positioned. Usually for individual houses, 40 mm size of pavers is recommended; and 60 mm for residential complexes. This is because children as well as elderly people walk on them. Multiple aspects need to be considered, before casting a design for the pavers,” Gauri adds. The USP of Shantadurga Concretes is that every batch of products manufactured is as per internationally approved standards with an anti-moss and anti-skid texture that allows
seepage of rainwater that prevents the surfaces getting slippery. The pavers also are aesthetically appealing, with high compression strength and are available in a variety of customized colours. “Choosing the right raw material is what determines the durability of your end product. It has to be a perfect and balanced combination of metal, cement, sand, pigments, white cement and chemicals. Every lot of raw material comes in with a certificate of analysis, without which we do not make a purchase and once delivered, the client executes the installation. We make it a point to click photographs of a completed project only after a minimum time of 10 months has elapsed, which gives us an accurate picture of how the products have withstood usage and weather,” claims Gauri. The products are manufactured in a standard as well as premium range. The former being available in red, yellow, grey and some elementary colours; while the latter involves a high-end range of chocolate brown, jet black and multiple shades in the elementary colours. The pigments are imported from Germany and each product is UV stabilized that ensures colour consistency and fade resistance. There are different pre-set moulds available for casting as per sizes, a few being the leaf shaped (50mm), balloon shaped (60mm), hexagon (40mm), cosmic (60mm), phantom (60mm) and Goa rock (60mm); that can be manufactured in the desired colour. “Shantadurga Concretes has made strides in this business purely by word-ofmouth publicity and personal recommendation of our existing clients. Till date, we have only
Shantadurga Concretes has executed orders for projects ranging from stand alone houses, residential complexes, farmhouses, commercial sites, hospitals, restaurants and resorts, decks of swimming pools, sports and football grounds, schools and also places of worship.
participated in one exhibition. For us, every client, every order is important, be it a 20 mts stretch outside a small shop, or the exterior of a vast showroom,” she adds. Right from Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Porvorim to Mapusa, Sankhali, Bicholim and beyond, Shantadurga Concretes have undertaken projects across the state. To name a few of their clients –Nature Inn (Nanoda), Chacha Nehru Park (Mapusa), Neomi’s (Calangute), Resort Rio (Arpora), Succoro Gardens (Porvorim), Naik Navare Constructions (Kadamba Plateau) and Goa Hyundai Showroom (Verna). Shantadurga Concretes has executed orders for projects ranging from stand alone houses, residential complexes, farmhouses, commercial sites, hospitals, restaurants and resorts, decks of swimming pools, sports and football grounds, schools and also places of worship.
“For individual projects, the customers visit the factory and place an order as per their requirements. As for commercial projects, we approach architects, builders and developers who have time and again given us repeat orders. Some clients have specific identified needs, while some ask for recommendations. We manufacture as per the order and dispatch
accordingly,” states Gauri. One of the unique orders executed by Shantadurga Concretes was the manufacturing of the pink coloured Dholpur stone. The end product was manufactured in 5-6 different shades of pink with a chalky finish. “Although we have executed a few orders in Maharashtra and Karnataka, most of our clientele is based out of Goa as the product is heavy and that increases the transportation cost. We also provide the flexible option for the client to pick up their orders from the factory,” Gauri adds. The staff strength at Shantadurga Concretes is about 14 and includes both, skilled and unskilled workers. Every morning, Gauri meets with the production supervisor and gives him a set of instructions to be carried out in the day, at the end of which, he reports back with the progress on each ongoing as well as completed tasks. “In the
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initial phase, I visited the factory every day; even Sunday was a working day for me. But after 3 years, work was strategically formulated in a way that today I can give more time to my family who have been extremely supportive in all my initiatives. My in-laws have always encouraged my decisions and my husband Samir has always stood by me through everything. Now I visit the factory twice a week to supervise the overall maintenance,” says Gauri. An active member of BNI Goa, Gauri is also the winner of the Goa Entrepreneurs Mentoring Services ‘Entrepreneur of The Year’ (Female) Award earlier this year. “It has been almost two years now since we cleared off the loan and it feels great to see the business flourish. Our focus will always remain on quality and over a period of time, we wish to expand our reach to more clients across the state,” she asserts
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 41
GOAN BRAND
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Chandelkar’s
Legacy of Pickles and Masalas
MEENAL BALE tastes the sweet and sour journey of this iconic Goan brand
A
business. Although he did not live to witness the great heights that the brand has now achieved, the Chandelkars is a family united by the founder’s dream and has stood the test of time. Together, the family has tackled every obstacle, be it meeting the financial challenges faced in business or surviving the sudden loss of a family member. Each one has had his own role to play and responsibility to execute. Even the areas and localities for distribution have very efficiently been delegated among the brothers. The Chandelkar’s factory units are based out of Kundaim and Khorlim. For better prospects, as well as focussed business strategies for targeted audiences, the Chandelkar Enterprises has been bifurcated into two – ‘Vaishali Foods’
Pic: Nigel Dias
sk any Goan if they have heard about the Chandelkar’s pickles or masala and you will definitely receive an affirmative response. It is a name that resonates in every household when authentic Goan delicacies are served from the kitchen. Around 1970, one man employed at a reputed organization, took a decision to quit his job and establish a business venture – becoming a first generation entrepreneur. He went on to be an inspiration for his successors and set an example that if you believe in your dreams, you can make things happen. Late Gopinath Chandelkar, a freedom fighter, one of the pioneers in the industry of Real Estate in Goa, and a man of many talents, dared to venture into an unknown field without any technical knowledge and used marketing techniques in an era where advertising was not such an evolved marketing tool that it is today. After his demise in 1975, his four sons, Shrinivas Chandelkar, Late Govind Namshikar, Raghunandan Chandelkar and Mohan Chandelkar took over the
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that manufactures a variety of masalas – mutton, garam, pickle, xacuti, and biryani to name a few, and in the spices – jeera, turmeric, chilli, dhaniya, black pepper, etc. This is complimented by ‘Goa Pickles’ that predominantly manufactures mango, lemon, lemon chillies and mixed pickles. ‘Vaishali Foods’ is currently headed by Saish (also known as Gopinath) Chandelkar. He firmly believes that a family that stays together and works together, prospers together. A mechanical engineer by profession, he quit his employ at Crompton Greaves and took up the responsibility of being the third generation entrepreneur in the family business. The other division ‘Goa Pickles’ (GoPi) has been named particularly as a tribute to
the late visionary Gopinath Chandelkar. Formerly headed by Late Govind Namshikar, it is currently succeeded by his son Vallabh Namshikar. An artist by qualification, Vallabh also engages in taking up painting classes for children whenever time permits. A conversation in the presence of the entire family, exhibits a strong sense of unity that is very prominently visible in the business as well. Reminiscing the good old days, Shrinivas fondly recollects the times when during the initial phases in the business, he and his brothers went on cycles to sell their products. From a rented cycle, to a cycle owned by the family, from a second hand scooter to a personally owned vehicle, the family and the business, both have survived and thrived consistently – despite the odds stacked against them. “The reason Chandelkar’s has transformed into a brand is because our late father has left us a legacy. During the times when people preferred making pickles and masalas at home, he introduced a readymade product. He faced a lot of difficulties and opposition, but stood by his dream. Living upto the standards and his
Around 1970, Gopinath Chandelkar, who was then employed at a reputed organization, took a decision to quit his job and establish a business venture – becoming a first generation entrepreneur. He went on to be an inspiration for his successors and set an example that if you believe in your dreams, you can make things happen.
expectations was a natural phenomenon for us,” adds Raghunandan. “Today, Goa has a floating population and very rarely people make traditional dishes at home. In order to stay tuned with the competition, we need to maintain our quality standards,” says Mohan, who has also played a cameo role in the recent Goan blockbuster ‘Home Sweet Home’. “My father always said, ‘In future, you may want to expand the business. Make changes to the method of packaging, elaborate on the means of advertising if need be, or even change the type of products; but never compromise on the taste and the quality. That is our strongest asset which will help us sustain in the long run,” recollects Vallabh. Each individual has a hobby, but the passion remains one. The team unanimously believes that for a joint venture to survive in the long run, the decision making has to be just and unanimous. Each one should be a contributor and yet at the same time, be actively involved in at least one aspect of the business; be it in operations, administration or marketing. “In most family businesses, when a new generation steps in, it is like a handover process. In our business, they have learned it all from scratch,” says Raghunandan. “We have even sat at the factory ourselves cutting the pieces of raw mangoes and mixing them,” adds Shrinivas. ”Our sister Durga has been a great pillar of strength, helping us stabilize things before her marriage,” adds Raghunandan. To which Saish smilingly adds “All the women in our family have been silent, yet crucial contributors. Their trust and immense support keeps us going. Every time we launch a new product, it first comes home for sampling. Only if the ladies approve, it goes ahead to the next stage” “In the food industry, the employees are the foundation of the organization. They should be trusted and respected. We have dedicated workers and
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(LtoR) Standing: Gopinath Chandelkar, Gaurish Chandelkar, Vallabh Namshikar, Omkar Chandelkar, Ankit Chandelkar, Tanvi Chandelkar. Sitting: Srinivas Chandelkar, Raghunandan Chandelkar, Mohan Chandelkar
Chandelkar’s brand has one major outlet in the heart of Panjim city, but is available at multiple retail outlets as well as general, mega and super stores – from Goa Bagayatdar, Sahakar Bhandar, to Magsons, Delfinos, AJ Super markets, and most of the cash and carry stores we treat them like family,” says Raghunandan. “We believe in giving opportunities to Goan workers and we can very proudly say that 100% of our workers are from Goa. Earlier, the processes for manufacturing and processing were stringent; personal attention was vital and to a certain extent, led to exertion. Having to manually carry the barrels to and fro and hand mixing the ingredients. Today, due to technological advancement, we can focus more on expanding our product line,” Vallabh reiterates. “The automation in machines has made it easier for our workers
too, in terms of segregating, mixing, frying, packing and other processes,” he adds. The Chandelkars feel that fixed outlets is a short lived concept, whereas being present at multiple locations can maximize their reach to more individuals. Hence, the Chandelkar’s brand has one major outlet in the heart of Panjim city, but is available at multiple retail outlets as well as general, mega and super stores – from Goa Bagayatdar, Sahakar Bhandar, to Magsons, Delfinos, AJ Super markets, and most of the cash and carry stores. The products have also been a part of some prominent exhibitions. Right from the time when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was in power and down in Goa for a national level conference, to the recent times of the Saraswat Food Festival, and the countless number of times when the products were exhibited at the stalls for the Old Goa Fests. Out of sheer curiosity when asked what gives them an edge over the competition, “The belief in our product,” says Saish. “We are not fussy about profits or losses. We relentlessly strive to retain our quality, that is the one aspect that will never be compromised at any cost and even the younger generation adheres to it,” says Raghunandan proudly. “The most
important factor in the process of manufacturing of food items is hygiene. We will never make a product that we ourselves cannot consume,” adds Mohan. Customer feedback and good service are the major plus points of the Chandelkar’s brand. Currently, the products are predominantly concentrated within the state. “In future, we plan to keep up with the changing trends, capitalize on the digital age to enhance the advertising aspect and put in practice certain modern techniques and machinery. We plan to create more awareness about our products, reach out to even more households and further branch out from our existing product line. The food processing industry has a huge scope for innovation and keeping an open mind definitely helps in expanding one’s horizons in all aspects,” concludes Saish
the voice of business in goa
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 43
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nikhil inamdar
Rokda
How Baniyas Do Business Baniya - a derivative of the Sanskrit word Vanij, is a term synonymous with India’s trader class. Over the decades, these capitalists spread their footprint across vast sectors of the economy from steel and mining to telecom and retail. And now even e-tail. Nikhil Inamdar’s Rokda features the stories of a few pioneering men from this mercantile community Radheshyam Agarwal and Radheshyam Goenka, founders of the cosmetic major Emami, Rohit Bansal, co-founder of Snapdeal, Neeraj Gupta, founder of Meru Cabs and V.K. Bansal, a humble mathematics tutor whose genius spawned a massive coaching industry in Kota - amongst others. Through the triumphs and tribulations of these men in the epoch marking India’s entire post independence struggle with entrepreneurship from the License Raj to the opening up of the floodgates in 1991 and the dawn of the digital era - Rokda seeks to uncover the indomitable spirit of the Baniya Publisher:
BG CROSSWORD 71
Random House
QUIZZARETM
Across: 3.Currency in the Beatles version of the Monopoly game (4) 5.Chinese company founded by Jack Ma (7) 7. ____-Seltzer – American brand of heartburn medicine (4) 8.Red _____ - American fast food chain (5) 9. Document created to qualify for a degree or doctorate (6) 11. Russian aircraft which keeps crashing in India (3) 12. Patatas ______, popular dish from 10D (6) 14. American media company with magazines like Vogue and Wired (5,4) Down: 1. Tagline of a leading German car maker (3,4) 2. Popular comic book from Amar Chitra Katha (6) 3. HQ of the American movie industry (2) 4. American network infrastructure company focused on website authentication (8) 6. Popular coffee shop chain (7) 10. Country where the Zara clothing brand was founded (5) 12. England’s main radio and TV broadcaster (3) 13. Social security number, in short (3) answers to crossword 70 Across 1. Mcdonalds 6. Salt 7. Elves 8. Emirates 13. CIBA 14. Kadamba 15. VXi 16. Soho Down 1. Mastek 2. Dalmia 3. Agent 4. Davis 5. RSS 9. Aromas 10. Encash 11. Parke 12. Marx
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Meet ups happen across cities, but the signature event of the Rodhinhoods is ‘The Open House’ where Alok personally interacts with fellow Rodinhooders. This initiative has indirectly aided in fuelling the entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. In the five years of its existence, it has grown to 10,500 members
LADY POWER Asha Chaudhary
Think. Do. Be: The Lady Rodinhood
W
hat if today you decided to leave your routine desk job and establish a business of your own? Who would you ask about the registration process, the licences to be secured, the financial capital to be raised, the marketing and advertising aspect? The Rodinhoods.com is a pro-bono community founded by a remarkable digital entrepreneur Alok Kejriwal in the year 2010. Inspired from the French sculptor Rodin also called ‘The Thinker’ and Robin Hood, more profoundly known as ‘The Doer’, it is an extension to his passion of blogging, giving back to the society by nurturing an individual’s streak of entrepreneurship. Playing a pivotal role in this journey, is the content queen – Asha Chaudhary, editor as well as the community manager. Hailing from an advertising background, Asha has also worked as a creative consultant for some of the renowned television productions. When motherhood happened, she decided to keep aside the hectic life and become a ‘flexi-mum’ freelancer, working from home. Although she has acquired a degree in Mass Communication and Journalism, her writing skills were not put into practice until she was introduced to the world of Rodinhood. Recollecting how it all began Asha says “After a stage in life, you want to give back what you have learned and help people. And that happened to me through Rodinhood. Five years ago, a complete stranger befriended me on Facebook. Over a period of time we became good friends and when Alok introduced me to the concept of Rodinhood, I was awed. I started off as the 1500th member, and then went on to become the editor of the site, helping him curate the content. What started off as a help to
Pic: ALISTON DIAS
MEENAL BALE catches up with Asha Chaudhary to understand the digital phenomenon called Rodinhood
After a stage in life, you want to give back what you have learned and help people. And that happened to me through Rodinhood
Asha Chaudhary
a friend, slowly evolved into a career with me becoming the co-founder as well as the fullfledged community manager.” On the Rodinhoods site, what helps an entrepreneur the most is the section of ‘Showcase’ where one learns about various online portals available that could benefit the business and help in tracking the early traction to his website. For ‘Bootstrapped Startups’ it is the ‘Ask’ section where fellow Rodinhood experts share their experiences, interact with people across boundaries and mentor the budding talent through a portal that is not only free, but also open to all. “An entrepreneur’s journey to success is more often a lonely one, his struggles, his fears are his alone. Who does he ask when he has to make a decision? Here, we have a tremendous amount of synergy in the community, where people give unconditionally. Nobody is getting paid. Yet, they are very genuine in their knowledge and gratitude,” Asha explainss. Right from the time
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of ideation, to elimination, planning and execution to finally establishing your venture, you can seek any kind of advice from fellow Rodinhooders. Every Friday, the Rodinhooders receive a weekly newsletter from Asha, keeping them abreast of the happening topics, just in case they missed out. The site houses an immense amount of resources, be it about video marketing or a business in the food and beverages sector, or retailing hassles and queries on e-commerce. The ‘Discussions’ section includes everything under the sun. “The job keeps me on my toes every day. I invest about 10-12 hours a day of my time, keeping a track of the posts uploaded, curating the content, monitoring the membership approvals, posting on social media, partnering with startups, preparing the newsletter, coordinating for social events... and the list goes on. On an average, I send about 100 odd emails every day. The community is ‘online’ and keeping it engaged
while constantly nurturing each individual’s interest is challenging, but fun,” says Asha. Simultaneously, Alok makes it a point to meet and mentor at least one person every day, keeping the enthusiasm in the community alive. “The vital reason for having an editor is to ascertain that the content posted is relevant. I send constructive feedback, a bit on the sentence structuring or grammatical errors; without changing the essence of the article, ensuring that it retains the desired impact without obstructing the reader. I believe that once you have got it right, you never need to ask again,” she adds. Meet ups happen across cities, but the signature event of the Rodhinhoods is ‘The Open House’ where Alok personally interacts with fellow Rodinhooders. This initiative has indirectly aided in fuelling the entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. In the five years of its existence, it has grown to 10,500 members strong, including students who aspire to become the next generation entrepreneurs, the youngest and the most beloved member being Asha’s 8 year old daughter Aarini. Each of the Rodinhooders own a t-shirt that identifies them as a part of the kin. “The content is huge, the startups are exploding and the community is happening. It is undoubtedly an awesome feeling to be a part of something so huge” says Asha with a smile. On a personal front, Asha confesses that she loves her distant and remote home environment. Those who follow her on Facebook, will be aware of her adventurous and inventive ‘Temple Tales’. The top most priority on her bucket list is to write stories for kids and she is toying around with the idea of having a food truck of her own
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 47
During my Talent Search Scheme, the ICMR in 1980, before I completed my M.D., I received the opportunity to study about 400 high risk pregnant patients and I realized that apart from being a stigma to the society, the agony of not having a child, can be extremely stressful.
PROFESSIONAL DOSSIER Dr. Kedar Padte
A doctor with a heart
Kedar Padte combines the qualities of head and heart with aplomb, never shying away when it comes to giving back to the society
M
y father wanted me to become a doctor. He had heard a lot about Dr. Kedarnath who had saved many lives and he named me Kedar, willing for me to be like him. Before medicine happened to me, I wanted to become a pilot. But the fees were far beyond the contemplation of a common man. And if I were to do anything in the field of medicine, I would have only been happy in operations, because I needed to be engaged in some sort of a physical activity. It was a pleasant surprise when I attained top marks in M.B.B.S. from the Bombay University in 1979 and even became a gold medallist. The studiousness continued and I topped my M.D. in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the Bombay University in 1984. In 1985, I acquired my Diplomate of National Board, began with my practice in 1987 and then went on to become a Fellow of the International College of Surgeons in 1990. During my Talent Search Scheme (TSS), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 1980, before I completed my M.D., I received the opportunity to study about 400 high risk pregnant patients and I realized that apart from being a stigma to the society, the agony of not having a child, can be extremely stressful. Expansion of species and reproduction is a rule of nature. What could have been better, than to be able to bring a new life into this world? During my days at Medical College, I witnessed a complete change of paradigm in my life. Today when I look back, if it wasn’t for Dr. Madhav Wagle, I wouldn’t have been a doctor. I always wonder how a hyper active, non studious individual like me became best friends with this highly intellectual topper. We used to meet for study sessions and discuss on the various topics learnt in class. We didn’t have
Dr. Kedar Padte
any vehicle in those days, we even walked together to class. Dr. Shankar Shetty and Dr. Roy Patankar have been instrumental in invoking my interest in the field In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). While studying, when the first case of Louise Brown Test Tube baby happened, I told myself, that one day, I will make it happen too. I studied rigorously for that, took up multiple courses and minor diplomas. And in late 1990s when I went to the Sydney IVF, I decided to put up my own laboratory. It was a lot of hard work and it was expensive as well. One single cycle of IVF would cost around Rs. 60,000 and yet, the success rate was only 40%. That is the
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An IVF transfer is done in two scenarios, either when the sperm count is low or the tubes are blocked; and counselling plays the biggest part here time during which I also learned that endoscopic surgery is vital in the process. But for me, I would rather save up for the equipment than eat. Over a period of time, we laid the foundation of Goa IVF Centre at Panaji, where we subsided the cost for the process and charged the patients only Rs. 10,000. From 1999-2000, we undertook about 40 cases, but there was not a single success. Then in 2001, the first test tube baby in Goa was born to a couple in Mapusa. An IVF transfer is done in two scenarios, either when the sperm count is low or the tubes are blocked; and counselling plays the biggest part here. The patients need to be aware there the chances of success
are not 100% and thus have to be prepared for the outcome. We also undertake camps on infertility in the rural area; a year-long camp that begins from creating awareness, getting the patients to the hospital, treating them and taking care of them until delivery. Our equipments imported specially from Germany, and a few of the services provided include Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection, sperm freezing and storage, Oocyte & embryo freezing, storage and donation, embryo transfer. Over the last three years, there have been above 30,000 patients and above 10,000 pregnancy cases. There have been 400 odd menopausal patients above the age of 45 with more than 20 successful deliveries. Not only that, we have had some cases of twins and triplets too – 21 triplets and 131 twins in fact, and all are healthy babies. I have a diary that helps me keep a record of each pregnancy, it is like a memory captured in time. I believe that we are here in this world on a picnic. I have a white board in my cabin and one statement permanently remains on it ‘If work is play, then job is fun.’ People take a break from work, but my work is fun. I enjoy surgeries – an operation is my means to meditation. Sometimes it means 14 hours of work in a day, Sundays included. But I never wear a watch, I live timeless. In all my endeavours, my wife Jayashri has been my biggest support. She is a dedicated disciplinarian for cleanliness. Like me, she too has a board firmly placed in the operation theatre, with the motto that reads ‘In this room, there is no room for error’ and because of that we succeed. You need to maintain the minutest of hygiene during the process. Apart from me and my wife, we have a dedicated team of doctors – Dr. Jyoti
REAL ESTATE Gadkar Halarnkar (Obstetrician & Gynaecologist), Dr. Mahesh Parsekar (Anaesthetist), Dr. Chandan Salunke (Embryologist), Dr. Madhumohan Prabhudesai (Andrologist/ Urosurgeon), Dr. Virendra S. Gaonkar (Pediatrician), Dr. Ramchandra Bhat (Pediatrician) and Dr. Veena Velingkar (Anaesthetist). I make sure that I spend time with my family. And although I take time off from the hospital, I am not totally disconnected, as the patients are my priority. There are always two ways of looking at a situation. You can either say ‘Oh! What will people say?’ and hibernate in anxiety. Or, you can say ‘Oh! Wow! A new challenge for me’ and give it your best shot. To handle that amount of stress, a doctor always needs to stay fit – physically, as well as mentally. I love reading and believe that books have been my persistent companion, I even have a mini library of my own and P.G. Wodehouse is my favourite; the humour in the literature is amazing! During the Iran-Iraq War in 1980s the seed of ‘One World’ was first sown in my mind. I realized that the maximum grief is caused by the death of a youth. The wife gets widowed and the children as well as the parents get shattered. Mother earth has not divided the world; it is we humans who have created the borders. We do a lot of charity through One World; 30% of IVFs that happen in our hospital are free of cost. We are a group of professionals striving to spread a message, working in unison towards creating a future world where everybody belongs to humanism and lives in peace and harmony – no caste, no creed, no religion, no social stratum. Our propaganda is simple as stated in my book titled ‘One World – A World Without Borders’. Protect the environment, help those in need without any form of discrimination, do not be judgmental or harbour any grudges, be forgiving; smile and spread the joy. Let us together make the world a better place to live in As told to MEENAL BALE
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Konkan Vision unveils real estate options at Sindhudurg Dhamapur Lake
K
onkan Vision Realtors, a firm owned by Rasika Amit Palekar, was formed with to undertake plotted development in the Konkan region of Maharashtra State, considering the scenic beauty of the place. After successful completion of its first development at Kudal, Konkan Vision has announced its second project, ‘Dhamapur Lake City’. This prestigious development project, consists of residential plots at Dhamapur, Kudal, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra. As the name suggest, this project is situated in the vicinity of Dhamapur Lake approximately 800 meters from the site. This unique lake is supposed to be the biggest lake in the district situated between Are and Katta village. This man-made lake was constructed in 1530 by the local ruler Nagesh Desai and has beautiful scenic hill ranges on its two sides. The famous Bhagavati temple is located on its southern bank. The water is crystal clear and has dense plantation of Kokum trees, coconuts and areca plants around. The dense forest and orchard surrounding the lake has made this one of the most beautiful lake in Maharashtra. Tourist frequent the same for serene surroundings and boating facility made available by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). Forest department has also constructed beautiful huts on the bank of the lake to enable the tourists staying here to enjoy the panoramic view from their cottages. The lake is soon proposed to see two new five star hotels in the vicinity. Dhamapur forms part of the ‘Tourism District’, Sindhudurg, known for its natural beauty like beaches, backwaters, waterfalls and pilgrimage centres. The site is at a distance of about 13 kms. from Maharashtra’s most popular and important sea forts built in the 17th century – the
Rasika Nair Palekar
Sindhudurg Fort which is located near Malwan beach in the middle of the sea. Tourists from all over the world visit this great sea fort. Sindhudurg was built with the help of huge rocks on the ‘Kurte’ island, which amazes people, and one appreciates the vision and foresight of the great warrior king Shivaji Maharaj. Sindhudurg district now comprises of eight tahsils of Sawantwadi, Kudal, Vengurla, Malvan, Devgad, Kankavli, Vaibhavwadi and Dodamarg. The project site is at a distance of 17 km. from Tarkarli beach. The drive of about 15 minutes takes you to the pristine seashores and one can enjoy boating and scuba diving. The Sindhudurg district has progressed steadily to become a tourism as well as industrial hub attracting a lot of investors from all over India. It is well known that many hotel proponents have purchased large tracts of lands in Sindhudurg, considering its potential to growth. The site is at a distance of about 13 Km. by road from Chippi Greenfield Airport which is taking shape and scheduled to become operational in the year 2016. The Government of Maharashtra has announced India’s first Oceanarium project at a distance of 20 kms from the site near Malvan. The MTDC also plans a metro railway connecting the upcoming Chippi airport here
with major tourist destinations, helicopter or heli-taxi services connecting major cities, a marina, zoo, hotels and even a rain forest on the acquired land. The coastal highway is passing through close proximity from the site. The site is well connected by State Highway and is adjacent to it (Goa- Kudal –Malwan MDR). The project has well laid out roads, drains and a community house with open gardens and play area for children. Considered to be a profitable investment option in view of the recent announcement by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Phadanvis – to make Sindhudurg District, the top district in tourism. As also in view of the fact that Central Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that headquarters of three important corporations – Indian Chemical Fertilizers, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum to be shifted to Sindhudurg. With a distance of about 40 kms from Goa (80 kms from Panaji), the project is a perfect investment opportunity where one can own a fully developed residential plot approved by the Town and Country Planning Department with a starting size of 500 square metre for as less as Rs.12,50,000/-. Konkan Vision under its sister concern firm, Green County has acquired land at Munnar, the scenic hill station in Kerala, where the firm proposes to create a nature resort overlooking the Tata Tea garden. The firm also has a residential project at Socorro, Porvorim on its board. This villa and apartment project will be announced soon along with a ‘plots only’ initiative
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 49
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EVENTS
CMM Megastore launched at Mangalore Goa’s trusted brand name CMM launched its first out of state Megastore at Mangaluru in Karnataka. Megastore ‘CMM Arena’ was inaugurated by Mangaluru North MLA B A Moideen Bawa at a newly constructed building at Chilimbi, Urwa, Mangaluru. Hari Kaul, General Manager of CMM Megastore, welcomed the guests. Mangaluru South MLA J R Lobo, who inaugurated the formal ceremony, while addressing the gathering said, “Mangaluru is becoming a smart city and more shopping malls are coming up here. CMM Arena has opened their first mega store of Karnataka in Mangaluru. It is also good news for the people of
Dean Menezes addresses the gathering at the launch of CMM MegaStore, Mangaluru
Mangaluru.” MLA B A Moideen Bawa said “CMM Arena has already completed 100 years of service. I want the CMM Arena of Mangaluru branch to reach 100 years in service. Some companies come up, sell few products and vanish quickly. But
CMM Arena has invested in the whole building to assure their customers that they are going to remain here.” Directors of CMM Megastore, Dean W Menezes and Dale Menezes also spoke on the occasion
Luxe-Drive by Mercedes-Benz & Counto Motors
Roland Folger, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India and Aakash Counto, MD, Counto Motors
Living up to its ‘Live the Best’ philosophy, Mercedes-Benz organized its unique customer engagement the ‘LuxeDrive.’ This exclusive experiential event fascinated customers through a perfect blend of adrenaline, gourmet and haute couture. LuxeDrive was organized held recently at the Verna Industrial Estate. Speaking on the occasion, Roland Folger, Managing Director and CEO, MercedesBenz India, commented, “We believe that luxury experience is one of the key differentiator
Silver Jubilee of The Leela Goa
while investing in a luxury car. Best Customer experience is an important pillar of MercedesBenz’s ‘Live the Best’ philosophy, and innovative experiential platforms like LuxeDrive, gives us an opportunity to present our renowned brand experience to the discerning customers. We are very glad with the overwhelming response for LuxeDrive across markets and are excited to present it in Goa. Goa is an emerging market with a strong growth potential for luxury cars. We have witnessed a strong preference for our products in this market and have posted a robust 52% growth in the first three quarters this year. We are confident that LuxeDrive will receive a strong customer response in Goa and fascinate our customers in Goa.” This event showcased the technical expertise and superior performance of Mercedes-Benz range of vehicles, through a series of self-driving exercises on a specially designed test track.
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managed by a team of expert drivers, various vehicle dynamics and features were experienced by participants in both off-road and on-road conditions. There was also a special zone for exclusive MercedesBenz merchandise where guests chose and took home their favorite merchandise. The MercedesTrophy zone had exclusive MercedesTrophy goodies on display that kept the participants and families engaged throughout. Guests also had the unique opportunity to get a free car evaluation from Mercedes-Benz pre-owned car sales team and an opportunity for special trade-in and personalized finance offers. Aakash Khaunte, Managing Director, Counto Motors, commented, “Goa is one of the fastest growing markets for Mercedes-Benz and we have seen our customer base increasing substantially in the last few years. We are set to give our customers an unparalleled luxury experience through LuxeDrive. We are delighted to bring this one of its kind event to Goa and create a customer centric engagement experience through it”
Shridhar Nair and Uddhav Thackerey
The Leela Goa recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in Goa. The event marked double celebration; its 25th anniversary and being ranked among the world’s top 100 luxury hotels by the prestigious Conde Nast Traveller’s Readers Travel Awards 2015. It is the only resort with more than 100 rooms (210 rooms and suites) in India to be awarded this recognition. The super luxurious hotel based in south Goa also entered its 25th year of hosting guests from around the world. General Manager Shridhar Nair said “We are very proud of the fact that The Leela Goa has achieved an iconic status among luxury resorts not only in Goa but in the world. We were the first luxury resort to open in south Goa thereby playing an instrumental role in positioning the area as one of the most sought-after luxury tourist destinations in the country. This prestigious recognition is like the icing on the cake, and is sweeter as it comes during our silver jubilee celebration.” Nair further added “I am extremely proud to lead this resort into its 25th year of operation. We have planned many celebrations for this occasion along with all our stakeholders – guests, associates, business partners and the local community. This occasion helps us to reaffirm our vision to be the most preferred luxury resort for our guests and also gives us an opportunity to thank all our partners who have immensely helped us on this successful journey
Biz Bytes
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R’Omle & Cafe IHT to take Rassa Omelette worldwide Entrepreneur Chirag Datta Naik said that his company is committed to take the Goan delicacy – ‘Rassa Omelette’ across the world, sooner or later. Addressing the media on the opening of R’omle – a street food café, the young go-getter Chirag and his wife Saloni said that R’Omle is an attempt to introduce Rassa Omelette to the world and place Goa impressively on the world map. He said `R’omle’ is a word coined by his team to introduce and package the authentic and fabulous creation, the Goan snack
very sophisticated about what they eat and drink and are on the lookout for something special and varied,” says Chirag. He added that the ambience and decor at R’Omle encapsulates the essence of street side dining with a hint of panache and that it gives you a rare combination of a place that serves street food, while making one feel like he is in a Chirag and Saloni Naik plush restaurant. “I will Rassa Omelette. “There was be working hard to take the Goan a niche for a new type of food Rassa Omelette worldwide, in a outlet as people have become decade,’’ he said
Pai Kane Group begins production of sheet metal components. Bullish about international markets
Diversified engineering company, the Pai Kane Group has ventured into the production of sheet metal components and will shortly be starting-up new project involving manufacture of marine gensets. Group Chairman and promoter, Atul Pai Kane, made the announcement and said that new projects are aimed at taking the group turnover to `650 crore by 2019-20. Current turnover is in the range of `330 crore, he said. The sheet metal component
project was in the planning stage for eight months and commercial production commenced recently. For the marine genset project, the group has recently signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with a South Korean company. The group has taken the ‘Make in India’ campaign of the government seriously and also hopes to take advantage of shipping projects in defence industry in future, he said. The Pai Kane Group comprises seven companies with Power Engineering Pvt Ltd, as the flagship company. The group employs 535 people of which 95 per cent of who are Goans. New projects will increase the employment potential by another 150 people, said Kane. Announcement of new projects was also to inform of Export Excellence Award 201314 by EEPC India bagged by
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the Group. The award was for achieving exports of `105 crore, said Sunil Pai Kane, Managing Director, Power Engineering. The Group, he added, started its export journey to balance sales and has achieved major success in exports. Gensets is the main product of the Pai Kane group and other engineering goods are gas and diesel generators, switch boards, solar and wind compact substations, diesel pumps, etc. The Group exports gensets to more than 62 countries and sales in international markets comprises 75 per cent of the turnover. Future target is to export to 100 countries. The Group has recently executed an order for Bolivia and has been receiving repeat orders from the Latin American country. For three successive years it is been the sole genset provider for Formula 1 in Singapore to which it has delivered 85 gensets. The Group sees major opportunities in shipping and is in talks with various shipyards such as L&T Shipyard and Mangalore Shipyard to increase its shipping related business, he said. Pai Kane officials including Ashish Marathe, Strategic Head, were present at the press briefing
Maruti Suzuki’s S-Cross launched
Sunil Masurkar at the launch of S-Cross
The Director of Transport Sunil Masurkar did the honours of launching the S-Cross Maruti Suzuki premium car at the newly inaugurated showroom of NEXA which will be the distributors of all premium cars of Maruti Suzuki at the Porvorim showroom on the NH 17 opposite Magson supercenter. The new S-Cross Maruti Suzuki premium car was launched at Porvorim at the newly inaugurated showroom of authorized dealer of NEXA; the inauguration was done at the hands of Director of Transport Sunil Masurkar in the presence of the NEXA team. The S-Cross new Maruti Suzuki car is of premium brand with a combine of power and performance of an SUV with the comfort and premium of a sedan. the car comes with two range of 1.3 and 1.6 engine both are Diesel engines, the prices fixed for 1.3 diesel engine is `8,61,240 with a 24 Km per litre fuel efficiency while the 1.6 diesel engine, is priced at `12,27,000 and the fuel efficiency is 22Km per litre. According to the NEXA who are the authorized dealers for the premium car, the new S-Cross has features like cruise control, rain sensing auto wiper, all wheel disc brakes, auto dimming IRVM, HID (High intensity discharge) headlamps with auto light on function and smart play infotainment system with reverse parking camera, S-Cross will be sold and delivered at the network of NEXA showroom
Biz Bytes
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Shilpa Kare Sirdesai launches ‘Give Me Menus’ app
Shilpa Kare Sirdesai
Shilpa Sirdesai, CEO & Managing Partner of Bay Leaf Integrated Communications Solutions has recently unveiled ‘Give Me Menus’, an app that will address the pain points of many a working woman. The app suggests well paired, nutritious, balanced and visually appealing menus. “We don’t cook for you, we just suggest ideas, as at the end of the day we all like food made at home and in our control. The app features traditional and fusion menus, supported with recipes in 3 easy steps. While traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian is all about simple and regular food
ideas, our Gen Y is exposed to international cuisine hence fusion becomes important,” says Shilpa. ‘Give Me Menus’, caters to the need gap in food content with regards to Indian households. The product has been developed after two years of research with focused target groups and subsequent content that has been developed plans to cater to different taste palettes within India and Indians staying aboard. “This concept and idea came from my own life where I struggled to manage my business and needs of growing kids who wanted variety in food. Our aim is to reach out to millions of households and add the flavour of convenience to their lives, as food is a ceremony in India and ceremonies revolve around food,” adds Shilpa. The app has been facilitated by Shilpa’s business partner Allwyn D’souza whose innate digital acumen made it a complete in-house production
How the app works: The main two categories are: • Traditional and Fusion – both have Veg and Non- Veg • A menu is defined with 2 dishes (a main and a side) with suggestions on breads/rice/ salads • There is a Submit menu – so people can interact, engage by sharing recipes and see their names displayed along with the menu • My Top 10 can save 10 recipes as favourites • E a c h days menu is displayed for only 24 hours and then rests in the previous days menu section.
share with house help and cooks Integration of home delivery of ingredients. Tie ups with e-grocers and hyper local grocery formats by initiating payment gateway Specialised menus – Diet, Gluten free, Jain, uncomplicated Tiffin ideas and Diabetic
In process: Audio in Hindi to
Charity fund-raiser dinner and fashion show at BottleBay on 21st November
School children who will benefit from the fund raiser event
BottleBay will host its second edition of Charity Gala Dinner and fashion walk on 21st November in aid ‘Asro’ ‘Aastha’ and ‘Don Bosco Konkan Development Society’ – these organizations work for HIV +ve children, mentally challenged children and slum and street kids, repectively. This unique fashion show will have various achievers grace
the ramp for a cause. “The who’s who of Goa will walk the ramp for this Charity Walk, to create awareness of giving with a cheerful heart and love. 100 percent of the proceeds gathered from the sale of tickets will be donated to each of the charitable organizations,” said Ninil D’Souza, the man behind the show.
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The Charity organizations, who are the beneficiaries of the show, provide needy children with essential life skills and work to help vulnerable young children from underprivileged backgrounds realize their potential, bringing hope to mankind. The event will support the three local charities in their noble work.
“This is the second edition of what started last year as an experiment in giving with a large heart,” added Ninil. The fashion show will be hosted by Sheetal Pai Kane and Priya Gupta. Besides there will be DJ music and international dancers at the event. The Donation pass is priced at `2000 per person
hospitality
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Grand Hyatt Goa
Grand Hyatt Goa has a plan for you everyday, this festive season With the festive season around the corner, Grand Hyatt Goa has prepared a plan for everyday at the award winning restaurants and splendid Shamana Spa. Take your pick from a collection of weekly merriment
Enjoy your favourite beverages at Capiz Bar
Expereince oriental flavours at the Asian Wok
YOUR WEEKLY P LA N N ER Learn to cook with the Chef at Chulha
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alk into the Capiz Bar on Mondays to experience new flavours in beer and food pairing. Rejuvenate at the Shamana Spa on Tuesdays with a detox program that includes a combination of yoga, aqua exercise, lymphatic drainage spa treatment and royal wellness bath along with healthy drinks and herbal teas. Come Wednesday and indulge in the Seafood night market in the gardens serving a large variety of fresh seafood combined with live music and entertainment. Gather around the fire place at the Capiz Bar on Thursdays for an evening of cocktails and music. Friday evenings brings in an oriental experience at The Asian Wok restaurant by the poolside. Conclude the week on a Spanish note at the palace lawns every Saturday; with an evening of music, entertainment and food inspired from the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Of course, Sundays will continue with the ever popular champagne brunch at The Dining Room. The resort will also have international musicians performing all through the festive season across the different
outlets of the property. Singer and Pianist Melanie Le Blanc from Canada will perform every evening at Confeitaria while residential DJ Thelma plays a selection of popular hits at different venues of the resort. Christmas week will have the annual Christmas Kids party on 19th December, an event especially curated for kids to enjoy in true spirit of the season. Guests can bring in Christmas over dinner at The Dining Room, this Christmas Eve, as musicians bring back beautiful nostalgic melodies. While Christmas Day gives you an option of either dining at The Dining Room with family or delight in intimate moments with your loved ones at The Verandah. For New Year’s Eve, escape from reality at the second edition of Garden of Dreams; a theatrical music dinner show of dramatic mixed arts, singers, musicians and jaw-dropping acts with lots of surprise and an experience no one will ever forget. Grand Hyatt Goa makes sure you have all the boxes ticked for a truly unforgettable festive celebration all through the season
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MONDAY: HOPS & NIBBLES Walk into the Capiz Bar to experience new flavours in beer and food pairing. Try something new every Monday as the pairing changes every week; Tapas, Yakitori and more to enjoy at Capiz Bar, 4 pm – 00:00 midnight. TUESDAY: REJUVENATE & DETOX AT SHAMANA SPA Designed to restore balance to your body system, cleanse it of toxins, and rejuvenate the mind. The program at Shamana Spa will include a combination of yoga, aqua exercise, lymphatic drainage treatment and royal wellness bath along with healthy drinks and herbal teas. Shamana Spa 8 am – 1 pm WEDNESDAY: SEAFOOD NIGHT MARKET Grand Hyatt Goa brings you a weekly seafood night market every Wednesday with a wide selection of seafood delicacies. If you can’t seem to get enough of seafood through the week, walk over to The Dining Room and enjoy an amazing selection of your seafood favorites and live entertainment. Every Wednesday. THURSDAY: FIRE PLACE Gather around the fire place at the Capiz Bar for an evening of sundowners, music, fun and
laughter. Every Thursday. Sunset - 00:00 midnight FRIDAY: ASIAN NIGHTS Serving comfort food during the day; the Pool Bar and Grill turns to the Asian Wok by night. Head over to the Asian Wok on Fridays; choose your own ingredients and interact with the chefs at the wok counters serving Asian cuisine. 7 pm – 11:30 pm SATURDAY: SPANISH NIGHT Head over to the Palace Lawns every Saturday; as we offer you an evening of Latino entertainment music and food inspired from the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Every Saturday 7 pm – 11:30 pm SATURDAY: CHEESE & WINE Enjoy Grand Hyatt Goa’s finest selection of wines and cheese every Saturday at The Verandah. Treat yourself to an exclusive wine tasting and exotic cheese table. Call up the Resort Center 30 minutes in advance and we will lay our an exquisite Cheese and Wine table at The Verandah 7 pm – 11:30 pm SUNDAY: CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH Relish a sumptuous meal over five interactive food counters along with free flowing beverages and live music by Thelma. Every Sunday. The Dining Room 1 pm – 4 pm
good company
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Corporate law compliances for private companies The writer handholds you in your bid to start and operate a private company days should intervene between two consecutive Board meetings.
Swatee Rane The Columnist is a Practising Chartered Accountant and Member of Institute of Company Secretaries of India caswatee@caswateeshererane.com
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re you planning to set up a corporate entity in India? You shall now be governed by the newly legislated Companies Act 2013. Before you start the process, read through this list of compliances under the new company law: Procedure for Incorporation Any two individuals can incorporate a private limited company. In case of One Person Company, any one individual can set up the company. One of the Promoters should fill up Form No.2.7 (Name Approval Application), digitally sign and then upload the Form on the MCA21 portal. All the Promoters should have their DIN Numbers and at least one Promoter should have the DSC (Class 2 Digital Signature). The proposed names selected should be as per prescribed guidelines. Company should be registered within 60 days from the date of filing of the Name Application Form. For registration of the company, you have to file the below mentioned documents which are to be attached in Form
No.2.9 and uploaded on the MCA21 Portal: • Memorandum of Association • Articles of Association • Subscriber Sheet • Declaration in Form No.2.10 • Affidavit in Form No.2.11 from each of the subscribers to the memorandum and from persons named as the first directors, if any, in the articles. • Address for correspondence till the registered office is established. • Details of First directors along with their respective consents and also their respective interests in other Companies and Firms and their consent to act as Directors in Form No.2.12 The Registrar of Companies on the basis of documents and information filed, registers all the documents and issues a certificate of incorporation in the Form No.2.13. A company should maintain and preserve at its registered office, copies of all documents and information as originally filed on incorporation till the dissolution of the Company. Compliances before commencing Business
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Once you have collected your Incorporation certificate, before commencing business, and within 30 days of incorporation, you need to file with the Registrar of companies, Form 2.24 duly verified by certifying professional that every subscriber has paid the “paid up amount” agreed to be taken by him and Form 2.25 for verification of registered office. Issue the share certificates to shareholders Issue share certificates to the shareholders as per the shares allotted. Registered Office Maintain a registered office in the state in which company is registered and maintain Books of accounts, Minute Books and Statutory registers at the registered office. Board Meetings Do not forget to hold the first Board meeting within thirty days of the date of incorporation and thereafter minimum four Board meetings every year. Not more than one hundred and twenty
Statutory audit to be conducted under the Companies Act The first auditor of the company, who shall hold office till the conclusion of the first Annual General Meeting, should be appointed by the Board within thirty days of incorporation. In case of Board’s failure, an Extra Ordinary General Meeting should be called within ninety days, to appoint the first auditor. At its first Annual General Meeting, the company should appoint an individual or a firm as an auditor of the company who shall hold office from the conclusion of that meeting till the conclusion of the sixth Annual General Meeting and thereafter till the conclusion of next sixth annual general meeting, tenure subject to ratification by shareholders. The company should inform the auditor regarding appointment and also file, form ADT-1 with Registrar of Companies within 15 days of the meeting in which the auditor is appointed. Annual General Meeting (AGM) The first Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the shareholders has to be held within 9 months of the last day of the first financial year. The 2nd and subsequent AGMs should be held within a period of six months from the closing of the relevant financial year. The period between two AGMs cannot be more than fifteen months. After the AGM, the company has to file with the Registrar of companies, the audited financial statements (Form AOC-4) within 30 days and the Annual returns (Form MGT-7) within 60 days
Brand is nothing but a pattern of expectations and a brand becomes a ‘Global Brand’ if it satisfies the survival, security, social esteem and self actualisation needs of the customer. And to make it happen, we need to follow the ‘Global thinking’ process
PEOPLE TREE
Global thinking
Kishore Shah The Writer is an organisational development and talent analytics consultant. He is also the founder sponsor of Goa CSR Awards. He is the recipient of Limca Book of Records and Business Goa Award shahkishorem@gmail.com
It’s an irony that the concept of Global thinking even today remains largely superficial – a sort of illusion and it makes us wonder how these MNCs make world class products, systems and services, almost effortlessly using our own manpower
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ay back in 1991, I first heard and experienced the famous tag line ‘LPG effect’ (Liberalisation, privatisation and Globalisation’) Being born in the era of ration card, this was more like a dream come true phenomenon as we had access to world class products and services which, prior to this, were accessible to a select few. During this era, the Indian organizations had their board room with the reverberations of words like ‘Think Global’, ’Think Global and Act Local’, ‘Glocal’ etc. But frankly what most of them ended up doing was simple
transplantations of processes from Americans, Japanese and Germans. The Indian organizations which catered to a tolerant Indian consumer, largely managed its business through behind the curtain tactics, were struggling to catch up with the MNCs. The markets were opened without any buffer time to catch up or build capacities, thus creating the foundation for ‘Organizational Jugaad.’ It’s an irony that the concept of Global thinking even today remains largely superficial – a sort of illusion and it makes us wonder how these MNCs make world class products, systems and services, almost effortlessly using our own manpower. We rely on them but who do they benchmark? There must be some black box which needs to be decoded. Few days back, as we were designing a workshop for a organization which was building a new vertical on Product development and management, this workshop was for its team which was moving from production culture to product development culture! This new team would now be responsible for developing products for markets in America, Europe and Asia – something which they had never done earlier; but their zeal and drive was contagious. During the design plan for the workshop, we decided to focus on two main areas. One was operationalising what we know as ‘Global Thinking’ and the
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The writer tells us that how, not changing our mindset but, balancing it, can make us truly global
other was how to inculcate the sense of responsibility towards Global Thinking among the team members, as they embarked upon their new journey. This team had a proven track record of production competence at par with global standards; and to reach this stage it took them about a decade. In the new scheme of things, the team would now get requests from countries other than India for developing products of international taste, standard, emerging technology and they would have to deliver the same in a cost and time effective way. The entire experience of the workshop was esoteric which compelled me to write about it for a larger audience. Let me start with a popular mythological story of Lord Ganesha and Kartikeyan – the children of Lord Shiva and Parvati. As expected, there was a healthy sibling rivalry between the two, about who is supreme; and to resolve this, one day they decided to have a competition and the task was that whoever completes 3 rounds of the world and reaches first would be judged as the winner. Lord Shiva and Parvati were the judge and witness. The starting point was Mt. Kailash. Both Kartikeyan and Ganesha sought blessings of their parents and the race began. Kartikeyan known for his athletic built leaped with his peacock and crossed mountains, oceans, continents once... twice... and thrice. When
he returned to Mt. Kailash, he was taken aback only to see Lord Ganesha enjoying himself with sweets as a celebration of his victory. Knowing Ganesha’s obese built and mouse as the vehicle, there was no iota of doubt in Kartikeyan’s mind that Ganesha would be knocked out of the race. Furious with the claims, he demanded an explanation and Lord Ganesha explained to him in his convincing style that he did pradakshina (circumambulation) around Lord Shiva and Parvati thrice and according to him his parents were ‘his world’. Whereas Kartikeyan’s argument was that he had travelled ‘the world’ thrice! His focus was on the geographic world. Lord Shiva perplexed with both justifications kept the decision in abeyance. This story is generally concluded to highlight the wit of Lord Ganesha but if we step back and revisit the explanations given by both Kartikeyan and Ganesha, actually holds the key to understanding the word ‘Global’ in the true sense. Global implies that there are two worlds – one is the ‘objective world’ as seen by Kartikeyan and the second is the ‘subjective world’ as seen by Ganesha. The objective world is full of facts, figures, logic, science and the subjective world is full of emotions, thoughts, myth and beliefs which are culture specific. The objective world is fairly same for all of us, but the subjective world differs from person to person; and hence when we look back and check why some of our products, processes, initiatives must have failed in comparison with global benchmark, it is because we must have probably missed out on factoring both these worlds together in our thinking process. This often leads to what we call as Jugaad. Hence, it is necessary that we add both the worlds to make it truly Global. However, this journey is incomplete if we do not integrate the ‘thinking’ aspect to integrate these worlds,
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so let us understand the word ‘thinking’ from an interesting perspective. It is said that humans are almost 99% animals! The 1% difference is that we are blessed with highest seat of ‘imagination’ which is the engine of our evolution! The human brain has evolved over centuries from our spine – the seat of reflexes to seat of emotions to seat of memory to neo frontal cortex, which is the seat of imagination. Our brain is nothing but a pattern of thoughts and it has infinite capacity to understand and create multiple patterns. To make this more elaborate, let us revisit our age old tradition of rendering rangoli. Early morning, ladies clean the courtyard and draw a matrix of dots which would be then connected by lines, creating a pattern which would be unique for that day. This would then be cleared in the evening; and next day the same ritual would restart but with a new pattern. These dots are like information – facts, knowledge which constitute the ‘objective world’ and the lines joining them is the ‘subjective world’. The image finally created can be equated to wisdom or pattern and hence when you add more dots it leads to more lines and thus evolves a new pattern which is nothing but newer wisdom. Wisdom is contextual and comes with an expiry date. Today though we all join the chorus for supporting ‘Digital India’, ‘Make in India’, ‘Entrepreneurship’ and other mantras, there is just a delta shift or change happening in reality.
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And one of the reasons for this is that we have failed to create the ecosystem for ‘Global thinking’. Be it in our schools, homes or organizations. We have either taken Kartikeyan’s approach or Ganesha’s approach; but we have not internalised both schools of thought. To be truly global, we do not have to change our mindset. Doing that is difficult, because it rattles our identity. Rather, if we make more space to accommodate both the ‘objective world’ and the ‘subjective world’ of all stake holders and apply the power of ‘imagination’ which is nothing but pattern creation, using dots and lines, it would give us amazing patterns which if translated into products, processes will have a Global appeal and acceptance. Brand is nothing but a pattern of expectations and a brand becomes a ‘Global Brand’ if it satisfies the survival, security, social esteem and self actualisation needs of the customer. And to make it happen, we need to follow the ‘Global thinking’ process. Mahatma Gandhi did it effectively. He embraced both the objective and subjective worlds of Indians and with a dash of imagination, which reflected in his attire and simple living, transformed him into a truly Global Leader. Indian history – be it social or business, has several such examples. So, the next time when you plan to be a truly global organization, or you intend to make global products or services, do reflect on this article
Powertech - Entry Automation Systems Head Office: #206 - Gera’s Imperium I, Patto Plaza, Panjim Goa 403 001 Tele: +91-0832-2437212, 6653754 Mob: +91-7767817881 Email: dinesh@powertechgoa.com Web: www.powertechgoa.com
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The government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative will be a good platform in order to boost naval shipbuilding. The only government owned shipyard in Goa is already making good use of this opportunity
shipping
Naval shipbuilding cluster for Goa – should we? we should!
The writer makes out a compelling case for a shipping cluster in the state
Ranjan Naik The writer is a project manager with DNVGL, Oslo. DNVGL is the leading classification society having vast experience in maritime advisory services. The views in the article are those of the author and not of DNVGL ranjan.mariner@gmail.com
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hipbuilding is one of Goa’s oldest industries. Goan shipyards have seen many sunny days in tune with the mining industry, mainly because the yards were involved with construction of barges, used to transport ore. Now, with the kind of problems the mining industry is currently facing and could face in the future, it doesn’t appear that mining is sustainable, which is unfortunate as the mining industry has been one of the major revenue earners for Goa. The other industry that is on the verge of losing its vibe is the tourism industry. With cheap holiday destinations mushrooming in Asia, the revenue from tourism is in a downward spiral. Goa needs a sustainable revenue generator; our very own shipbuilding industry is the answer. The government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative will be a good platform in order to boost naval shipbuilding. The only government owned shipyard in Goa is already making good use of this opportunity. Private shipyards from Goa can also reap benefits from this. However, they would need infrastructure enhanced and their facility verified for naval shipbuilding.
Another big opportunity is creating production facilities of ancillary equipment and services. This will also allow for the direct and indirect services sector to develop. These together (and not limited to) constitute a cluster. Cluster as defined by economic expert and Harvard professor Michal Porter, is as a geographic concentration of inter-connected companies and institutions working in a common industry1. It comprises manufacturers and services providers that create a specialized infrastructure, which supports the cluster’s industry. It draws upon a shared talent pool of specialized skilled labour. It represents a synergy, a dynamic relationship and a network between not only the companies that comprise a cluster but also a successful partnering of the stakeholders. Government, educational institutions and other support organizations vital to a region’s economic success represent these stakeholders. Many successful clusters have established a greater competitive advantage and wealth creation for their regions when compared to companies not in a cluster. Public policy that supports value creation and company
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competitiveness is key to local cluster growth2. For example, in Singapore, the Maritime & Port Authority (MPA) has succeeded in growing the Singapore maritime cluster to a leading International Maritime Centre through supportive government policy. Policy makers and regions are considering fostering cluster development as building blocks of regional economies. Some examples of industrial clusters in India are the automobile industry cluster in Pune, Bollywood – entertainment industry cluster in Mumbai, the pharmaceutical industry cluster in Goa. INS Kadamba at Karwar is currently the third largest Indian naval base, and is expected to become the largest naval base in the eastern hemisphere. The main function of the base will be maintenance and overhaul of naval ships and submarines. This will be the biggest market for ancillary equipment and services. If Goa develops its naval shipbuilding and support cluster in time, it can support this domestic market; and also the shipbuilding/ship repair market that the cluster shall create internally. This will be a dream start or should one say ‘re-start’. Major shipbuilding clusters
around the world have started with domestic demand. Identifying the constituent parts of a cluster involves starting with a large firm or concentration of like firms and then looking upstream and downstream in the vertical value chain. The next step is to look horizontally to identify industries that pass through common channels or produce complementary products and services. Additional horizontal chains of industries are identified based on the use of similar specialized inputs or technologies or with other supply side linkages. The next step after identification of a cluster’s industries and firms involved is identifying the institutions that provide it with specialized skills, technology, information, capital, or infrastructure and any collective bodies covering cluster participants. The final step is to seek out government or other regulatory bodies that significantly influence participants in the cluster1. Goa has some well-known industrial institutions like GSIA, CII, GCCI, WTCA who can be the torchbearers of such cluster initiatives. It is crucial to identify an entity that could take a lead role in the cluster development program and thereafter engage all key stakeholders to establish a concerted way forward. No initiative can prosper without public participation and that of the government. This implies that the ‘Naval shipbuilding cluster’ will be successful, when all work collectively References: 1. Porter M.E., 2010. Clusters and Competition: New Agendas for Companies, Governments, and Institutions. 2. Jakobsen M. et al, 2003. Attracting the winners – the competitiveness of five European maritime industries.
Document everything along the way. Just the way you shoot selfies and others’ in every situation, with every background, in every change of clothes, record everything that you encounter during the journey. There are things that you will be proud of.
antarprerna
Tiger tiger, burning bright! The writer takes a cue from her recent jaunt in search of a ‘jungle safari’ and shares her business wisdom within the context
Nandini Vaidyanathan Nandini Vaidyanathan mentors entrepreneurs (www.carmaconnect.in), teaches Entrepreneurship in ivy league biz schools around the world, and is the author of Entrepedia, the best-selling book on how to start your own business in India. She is also the Managing Editor of the monthly digital magazine for entrepreneurs called Chatterpillar (www. chatterpillar.in) Being a teacher, mentor and writer is her second innings. Before this, she spent over 20 years in the corporate sector, working with MNC’s in practically all inhabited continents! You can reach out to her on nandini@ carmaconnect.in
Focus on designing the most compelling customer experience even if that means educating the customer. So if the customers only want the tiger, nothing stops you from hiring a guide who can show them the other inhabitants of the jungle
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e were on a two week holiday in Kumaon at the beginning of March 2014 and in a couple of places, we were literally at touching distance of the Nanda Devi range. But this column is not about the misty mountains or the soul-elevating experience we had there. This is a metaphor for lessons entrepreneurs can learn from the jungle. We started the journey from Corbett and drove down all the way to Nepal border, just a hundred kilometers short. Corbett is a massive tiger scam. I remember a decade ago, in Sariska and Ranthambore, we would be shown poo or pug marks with the mandatory editorial: “arre tiger abhi abhi yahin se nikla hai” (the tiger was here just a few minutes ago)! And you were made to believe that your safari was total paisa vasool (value for money) until you compared notes with other travellers and realized it was all a big con. The scamsters have evolved over time now. Right from the time we checked into a hotel called Tiger Camp, the scam
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began. Why are you doing a canter safari? You should book a private jeep and go into the core area of the jungle and stay there for three nights, only then will you be able to spot not just one tiger but several. It will cost you 40,000 bucks! We then realized all the entrepreneurs who had set up camps there were in cahoots with the forest department officials because all of them sang the same song and I’m sure what they earned from the gullible ones, they split down the middle. We also realized this racket was possible because of customer expectation. One of the guides told us that all the visitors who come to Corbett are interested in only one thing, however unreasonable, even laughable. They just want the guide to bring a tiger to them by the neck (or tail), take pictures posing with it (and all the while the tiger is expected to quietly lick its chops) upload the pictures on Facebook and all and sundry media so they can boast about it for the rest of their life! We had booked a canter safari and the whole idea was that given Corbett’s huge
biodiversity, we should be able to spot not just the famed tiger but other birds, animals and the trees. The driver drove as if he had to reach the destination in record time because the tiger was waiting for us impatiently at the end of the road. There were beautiful and rich flora all around us but no one noticed them or was even interested in them, so focused was everyone only on the tiger they were so sure was waiting for them in the jungle! Since everything in my life is about entrepreneurship, this experience made me pause and ask myself if there were any lessons here for the entrepreneurs. And the following are what I came up with : • Focus on designing the most compelling customer experience even if that means educating the customer. So if the customers only want the tiger, nothing stops you from hiring a guide who can show them the other inhabitants of the jungle, not just show but tell stories about them like Gerald Durrell. Your guide could actually become your biggest repeat sales driver! • Don’t focus just on the goal. Don’t say when I spot the tiger I will consider it was worth it. Learn to enjoy the journey as well. I think the journey is the real adrenalin pusher, if you sideline that and obsess only with the end goal you may end up like Scarlett O’Hara who finally got the man of her dreams only to wonder if he was worth it at all! • Document everything along the way. Just the way you shoot selfies and others’ in every situation, with every background, in every change of clothes, record everything that you encounter during the journey. There are things that you will be proud of. There are things you will learn from. There are things you will never do again. These will make it worthwhile
Each one of us has different ways to relax, and it is essential that we take a few minutes every day to take a deep breath and say to ourselves that life without undue stress helps for a better, healthier life for oneself and for all the people around us.
LETTER FROM AMERICA
Stressed Out?
Jay Dehejia The Writer used to be a senior corporate executive, now a social entrepreneur. He spends most of his time between Goa and New York jay@dehejia.net
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have noticed over the last couple of years that many of the 30 and 40 ‘somethings’ appear to be under some sort of stress. Why has stress increased in the last few years? Are young men and women speaking about stress more openly than before? Has life in New York, or for that matter in America, changed so drastically over the last many years that it has become difficult to remain calm? Since 2007, the American Psychological Association (APA) has commissioned an annual survey on levels of stress, and its impact on day-to-day lives of Americans. Seventy-two percent of adults report feeling stressed about money at least some of the time while twenty-six percent of adults report feeling stressed about money most or all of the time. Significant sources of money-related stress reported by Americans include paying for unexpected expenses, paying for essentials and saving for retirement. It is amazing to see
that twelve percent of Americans said they skipped going to the doctor in the past year when they needed health care because of financial concerns. Is money the primary concern, as shown by the survey? Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that there are many other reasons for the high level of stress in this country. Many people in the organized labour force and those in middle management jobs feel the stress, as they have to work harder than their colleagues. Many feel that their jobs may be made redundant as companies streamline their operations; many companies try and reduce costs by moving their operations overseas to what may be termed as ‘low-cost’ countries. There are those who are under pressure from their superiors who require immediate responses. Smartphones are ubiquitous in the work environment. This leads to managers sending text, and e-mails at all times of the day or night, and many subordinates feel that they need to respond immediately on receipt of such work-related messages. Several months ago, I had written in this column that Americans take shorter holidays than their counterparts in Europe. When they do take time away from work, these same Americans are glued to their tablets and smartphones to make sure that questions about work get answered; they are scared to be away from work in case their bosses find one of their colleagues to take over the assignment. Loss of a job does lead to money issues, and that in turn leads to stress and an unhealthy environment at the workplace. Evidence suggesting that younger people have far more stress than the older generation is proved out by the Psychological Association’s survey which states: “Survey findings suggest
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The writer talks about the various stress levels faced by Americans and simple tricks to deal with them
a connection between stress and age. Millennials and Gen Xers report a higher level of stress than any other generation and appear to have difficulty coping, while older people report lower stress. In addition, many millennials say they feel isolated/ lonely due to stress, even though they report having a number of close personal relationships.” It goes on to say: “More than half of millennials say they have lain awake at night in the past month due to stress (51 percent compared with 45 percent of Gen Xers, 37 percent of boomers and 27 percent of matures). More than one-third of millennials say their eating habits are affected by stress.” These young people say that they either eat too little, skipping meals, or go on binge eating sprees, both extremes lead to health issues, bringing about a loss in productivity in the workplace. UN Labour Organization estimates that it costs industry over $200 billion each year in absenteeism, lower productivity, and staff turnover. So, workplace stress is no reason to stay at home! There are so many jobs to be completed every day at home. Men and women who share the
daily household work will attest to the fact that there are many situations that lead to stress. There is the cleaning of the home, laundry, cooking, keeping track of children’s activities, helping them with homework, and many more. There are many families living in American suburbs who do not seem to have any time to relax. Children are encouraged to take part in extracurricular activities, like sports, playing music, taking part in performing arts, and many others. These activities are over and above the huge amounts of regular homework that seems to be the norm at American high schools. We know many parents who spend time driving their children from one activity to the other, with many of them finishing after 10 p.m. at night. In many instances the children think that they are required to pursue these out-of-school activities to please their parents, while parents are under the impression that they must not stop their children from enjoying social activities to the fullest, leading to high levels of stress both for the children and the parents. There are many ways that one can reduce stress. Megan Holohan wrote in the May 22, 2015 issue of “Money Today” that there are at least 17 ways to reduce stress. Some of them include a) taking a walk, b) doing yoga, c) taking some ‘me’ time, d) listen to music that you like. Each one of us has different ways to relax, and it is essential that we take a few minutes every day to take a deep breath and say to ourselves that life without undue stress helps for a better, healthier life for oneself and for all the people around us. Is daily stress only an American phenomenon? We would like to hear from you, our readers, if you are stressed out in Goa, and if so what have you done to help yourself and those around you to alleviate stress?
Adventure Capitalist
Credit flowed, debt accumulated and economies in Europe became tightly intertwined, with borrowed money being confused with actual assets or real profit. Companies began opening new factories across Europe. German banks provided the lending for French
Greece paradox, German dilemma and European concerns The Writer analyses the economic situation that is tearing Europe apart
U. Mahesh Prabhu The Writer is Hon. Director – CGRI, Consultant – BW | Businessworld, Adviser – Exchange4media and President of Technoved Consulting Pty Ltd (Australia). indiamahesh@gmail.com
W
hile the international media is busy covering the apparent migrant crisis in Europe; there’s even worse crisis that’s brewing quietly with no credible solution at hand. European history has been replete with feuds, rebellions and intra-national rivalry for centuries. Doing business across borders was difficult and each time there was a huge cost incurred on ‘exchange fees’ alone. This, of course, was a great impediment to the continent’s economic growth. Post World War II, the businesses and governments felt the desire for a unified Europe. Eventually, in 1993, 27 European nations signed the Maastricht Treaty and created the European Union (EU). This made business across borders easier but there was one more major constraint – different currencies. The Euro was thus eventually launched in January 1, 1999 as the currency for the entire region. Countries adopting Euro – called Euro Area – discontinued their own currencies, some of which had existed for centuries. They even discontinued their
Monitory Policies (MP) giving more powers to ECB (European Central Bank). Yet they had many Fiscal Policies; a key reason for current debt crisis. MP controls money supply in the economy. It also determines interest rates for borrowing money. Fiscal Policy (FP) controls how much money government collects in taxes and how much it spends. The government can spend only as much as it can collect through taxes. Anything above that amount has to be borrowed – this is called Deficit Spending. Before the Euro, in countries like Greece, people had to pay higher interest rates to borrow and they could borrow only certain amounts. But when they became part of EU, the money they could borrow sky rocketed. Interest rates dropped from 18% to paltry 3%. There was a general and highly misplaced belief that if countries like Greece defaulted, the money could be recollected from Germany, which remained economically prosperous. This was because they were bound by common currency. Countries like Greece incurred huge debts and for some time even promptly repaid this money with more
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borrowed money. As far as borrowing continued so did the spending. Such countries also continued expensive welfare and social service payments to their citizens, but now paid for with borrowed money. Credit flowed, debt accumulated and economies in Europe became tightly intertwined, with borrowed money being confused with actual assets or real profit. Companies began opening new factories across Europe. German banks provided the lending for French companies. French banks provided the lending for Spanish companies and so on and so forth. Debt was transferred as if it were an asset from one country to another. This made doing business incredibly efficient and easy. Things continued the way as long as credit was available. Credit was available until 2008, when it became clear such credit had no real financial assets to support or sustain it. The biggest and strongest economy in Europe, Germany reluctantly decided to bailout the debt ridden EU countries. But Germany agreed to repay the bills only if other countries would agree to strict “austerity
measures”. This was to make sure that the problem won’t ever happen again. Austerity measures meant coming more under control of EU and German banks and never making any more debt driven spending. Austerity measures meant cutting government spending, particularly on social benefits. Since by far government is the largest spender in any economy, when government stops spending it can hurt many of its citizen’s income. People lose jobs, they get angry and they riot in the streets. Since government collects taxes based on people’s earnings, when earnings are reduced the government collects less in taxes. So they can only repay their debts, lesser and lesser. Yet there does not seem to be an easy alternative to austerity as continued spending based upon borrowing from other countries does not lead to a healthy economy either. In short, the financial quagmire created does not seem to have an easy or even perhaps a real solution, unless there is some radical change in how business is done. There are a lot of cultural differences between Germany and other debt ridden EU nations. Germans are financially responsible. After terrible hyperinflation, Germans experienced during World War I, the nation has been very inflation averse and careful about spending and borrowing. In simple terms: Germans work hard and expect little in retirement benefits and they meticulously pay their taxes. Many Greeks, on the other hand, like other Europeans who live in countries with strong welfare states, expect generous state benefits and don’t pay taxes. Greece has never collected majority of its taxes it has
companies. French banks provided the lending for Spanish companies and so on and so forth. Debt was transferred as if it were an asset from one country to another. imposed on its citizens. Germany disagrees with Greece on this attitude. Germany’s argument is “If you want our money you’d need to follow our work ethics.” As debt ridden countries are headed towards default, the whole continent of Europe is in danger, as all these economies are intertwined. Even though economies of these debt driven countries are relatively small, it is posing a great challenge since European financial system is so interconnected – precisely because of the Euro. The problem is thus: even if debtor nations adopt austerity measures, and bailout from Germany and other nations pay their debts and avert the crisis there’s no system in place to prevent this from happening again. Ultimately the Euro Area will require a fiscal union to match its monetary union or neither. This means there needs to be in place a political authority to impose fiscal policy across Euro
area. It must have the power to cut spending, raise taxes and even set laws. A fiscal union may also prevent excessive borrowing and spending. However, this is an enormously complicated as well as unpopular notion. This means surrendering sovereignty to higher powers – that means the United States of Europe. Who or what country would be the prime power in such a situation. Likely Germany; owing to its financial strength, but few European countries would like to come under German fiscal domination particularly given the two world wars of the last century. Yet even without such a union, Germany remains the dominant country in Europe. What is needed to be seen is as to whether Europe can take necessary steps to create a fiscal union alongside the monetary union or will the monetary union breakup thereby making Euro disappear
padma
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beyond classroom
The role of the owner or the top management should not be restricted to only “preaching” the good Service Mindset; rather it should be “practised” by being one with the employees. This is essential more so, for the sake
The Service Mindset
Dr. Pradeep Salgaonkar The writer is Professor of Marketing and Corporate Trainer and has recently launched SALDOTS Academy pradeepsalgaonkar@gmail.com
I
t was a beautiful Sunday morning when my family decided to go for a holiday to Ahmedabad. I sat to book the tickets for air travel Goa to Ahmedabad round trip. The obvious choice was makemytrip. com as I have often used their service in the past and have felt that it is better than the other portals. After a detailed search for various flights that suited our requirements I went on for booking the three tickets at Rs. 28435/-. After punching in all the details of the Debit card of bank ‘A’ clicked on ‘confirm’. The bank debited my account for `28435/- which was confirmed by a message from the bank on my mobile phone. However the message on the booking portal said ‘transaction failed’. I was wondering what happened, money is debited but why no confirmation of the transaction? Just a few seconds from that I received another message from the bank ’A’ stating the money is credited back in my account. I thought I must have done some mistake and went again to make the payment. The message again came stating money debited, but again portal
said transaction failed, and again money credited back to my account. This happened for three consecutive times. The fourth time rest everything was same except that I did not receive the message about credit of my money back in the account. I was wondering what to do next and my phone rang. I took the call and to my surprise on the other end was a Customer Service Executive (CSE) from Makemytrip who politely asked my name informed me that the ticket booking transaction is failing because the bank gateway is not permitting the payment to go. Upon further discussion he informed that it may be because of the per day limit set by the bank on the card. It then struck me that the limit of the card was `25,000/- and I was trying to make payment for `28435/-. I told the CSE that I need to book the tickets somehow. The CSE suggested me to make payment from some other bank. I said I have another bank account but the amount in the savings account of this bank ‘B’ is not sufficient enough to pay for the booking. I just have `9500/- in the account. I then asked the CSE whether I could make part payment towards this booking. The CSE informed me that such a facility is not available and that I have to make the full payment in advance. I told him that I need to book today itself and that he needs to do something about it. The CSE said “Sir, please give me five minutes. I will talk to my superior and call you back”. Exactly after four minutes the CSE called me back. He said “Sir as per company policy we do not give this facility of part payment to anyone, however I have taken special permission to accept part payment from you and confirm the ticket booking. You can pay now any amount as part payment, I will assist you
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The writer advocates that organisations should be more service-oriented
to do the payment” and from then throughout the payment process the CSE was guiding me over phone. Few minutes later I received the confirmed tickets. The CSE again called me and asked to check whether I had received the tickets by email. After my confirmation he gave me his direct number and name and said “Sir, If you need any other assistance then please call on this number”. I was feeling WOW!!! This happens only if the service executives have the right Service Mindset. The product offered by this portal and other portals is same, pricing is same, features and benefits are same, however what made the difference is the Service Mindset of this CSE, most probably the resultant of excellent Service Mindset of top management. The Service Mindset The organizations which thrive are those whose owners adapt themselves to the changing needs of customers and ensure that the same thought percolates down to their employees, thereby ensuring at every encounter that the customer has with the organization, the customer gets a feeling of satisfaction ultimately leading to the WOW factor. The leadership intent in any organization is of utmost importance, which should be aligned in sync with customer expectations. Later on, it’s the yeomen task on part of the organization to manage and manipulate the perceptions of the customer so that he/she gets the feeling of ultimate fulfilment and happiness. The difference between customer’s expectations and perceptions is the outcome i.e satisfaction or dissatisfaction. Higher perceptions than expectations lead to satisfaction and vice versa. For organizations to achieve this (satisfied
employees) every time on continual basis, need employees who will create continually moments-of-magic with the customers generating WOW factor and not a single episode of moment-of-misery. The secret lies in making excellent service a habit among all. The employees need to be encouraged to believe and internalize good behaviour towards customers and make excellent Service Mindset a habit. The role of the owner or the top management should not be restricted to only “preaching” the good Service Mindset; rather it should be “practised” by being one with the employees. This is essential more so, for the sake of the employees rather than the customers. The Bansals of Flipkart will be getting into the delivery boys roles, along with some of the top executives, doing door deliveries to customers this festive season starting with Navratri till Diwali. (Economic Times, 16-10-2015, pg. 6). The Bansals say that they need to understand the customers better hence they need first-hand information and interaction with customers, clubbed with thanking customers personally. However, in addition to the customer info, this action of the Bansals, will create a huge positive impact on employees thinking about customers and with regards to good customer service and will certainly go a long way in creating a good Service Mindset among the employees. Moreover, the feeling that the owners themselves are meeting the customers develops altogether a different elevated feeling among the customers, not only the chosen ones but among many others, too. The impact of top management’s Service Mindset on the bottom line of the organization is explained in below given figure:
of the employees rather than the customers. The Bansals of Flipkart will be getting into the delivery boys roles, along with some of the top executives, doing door deliveries to customers this festive season starting with Navratri till Diwali. Developing Service Mindset Understand and live up to customer expectations: An organization which desires to have a strong base of satisfied and loyal customers should first understand the customer. Simply knowing the customer is not sufficient. One needs to have a fair idea of every customer’s expectations and then make repeated attempts to meet them. Customer’s expectations can be categorised at four levels; Basic, Expected, Desired and Surprising. A customer is dissatisfied if the Basic and Expected levels are not met and anything below Basic level leaves the customer disgruntled. Whereas meeting the desired and surprising levels makes a customer get satisfied and at times delighted. Anything above the surprising level makes the customer feel WOW. Like in the ticket booking incident above, the phone call from Makemytrip CSE was surprising, but the CSE taking that extra effort of getting the part payment facility
and assisting throughout the transaction created the WOW feeling. The Personal element: Efforts by top management in developing rapport with customers and engaging in conversations on social and general issues goes a long way, just the way remembering names of your customers helps. Customers are humans too with feelings, emotions and expectations. They too like to be pampered. They feel good especially when someone from a senior level interacts and cares for them. An interesting episode of such a Service Mindset by owner was experienced when a group of friends visited a local shack at Calangute, Goa where the owner exhibited a very friendly and warm behaviour. He spent quite some time interacting with the group and shared lots of information about food and culinary art during the interaction. This certainly makes
a great impact on customer’s satisfaction. Every action is important: Within an organization, the customer has encounters with everything that he/she comes in contact with i.e. the employees, the decor, ambience, other customers etc. Everything from the time the customer enters the organization till he/she leaves provides a scope to form an opinion, positive or negative, which ultimately contributes to satisfaction or dissatisfaction. Simple things like trash on the floor or sticky tables or dust on the racks, or indifferent employees, ignorance by CSE etc. puts off the customer. Such acts convey that not only the employees but the top management also does not have good Service Mindset. A smile and a warm greeting by employees, quick replacement of a damaged product in retail setting, are signs of excellent Service Mindset. Do everything which you as a customer would
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have liked to have. Repeated moments-of-magic: Repeated positive encounters and episodes of satisfaction and feel good factor makes a customer transform into a loyal customer just like a caterpillar steadily transforms into a beautiful butterfly. Once loyalty has set in, unless something drastic happens or a highly disappointing and dissatisfactory service encounter is witnessed, the customer is bound to be with the organization despite of pull from competition. Moreover, minor episodes of dissatisfaction and bad service, if any, are normally ignored by loyal customers and at times, they also act as catalysts in convincing other customers about the good customer service by the organization. Leadership intent coupled with Excellent Service Mindset and motivated employees leads to satisfied and loyal base of customers
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Altair 8800 computer was sold with an Intel CPU, and with a do-it-yourself kit. Designed for the hobbyists, its prices started at $439. Computers at that time were a series of lights and switches as input and output devices. The average user needed to first solder and assemble the machine, and then use machine language for programming and using the device.
business insights
The Altair 8800 story, and its strategy lessons
The writer takes us through a journey of the rise and fall of the world’s first PC company
Ed Roberts
Lalit Saraswat The writer is a serial entrepreneur. He is CEO of Sancoale Technologies, a Marketing company specializing in the digital world saraswatlalit@gmail.com
By 1977, Ed Roberts felt burned out. He was tired of his management responsibilities, and sold MITS for $6 million to a larger hardware supplier. He walked away from the computer industry with his share of $2 million. He bought a large farm, became a farmer, studied medicine and eventually became a smalltown doctor
T
he companies that were at the forefront of the PC revolution in the 70s were SMEs. As the market grew, many of these companies grew to become gigantic enterprises, while some of them fell by the wayside. There are strategy lessons in the stories that we can learn from and apply in our businesses. In 1975, the IBM 5100 was launched with an IBM proprietary CPU that had been developed internally. Its prices started at $9000. Designed for the mid-sized business, it took 2 years to develop. This was a major achievement, considering the computer industry at that point of time, and IBM’s history in developing mainframes. The brilliant Ed Roberts ran an MSME called MITS with 20 employees. In 1975, his company designed and launched the Altair 8800 computer with an Intel CPU, and with a do-it-yourself kit. Designed for the hobbyists, its prices started at $439. Computers at that time were a series of lights and switches as input and output devices. The average user needed to first solder and assemble the machine, and then use machine language for programming and using the device. Roberts was hoping to sell 200 units to break even, an unthinkably large amount. He had
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negotiated a bulk deal with Intel to get chips with minor surface defects for $75 instead of $360. Altair got lots of free publicity as the ‘World’s First Minicomputer Kit to Rival Commercial Models’, and was deluged with thousands of orders. Sensing an opportunity, a home-based company Traf-OData requested for a meeting with Roberts. Traf-O-Data was an MSME, with just 3 employees in 1975. Roberts was willing to take a chance with the two young boys. They sold Altair BASIC to Roberts for an initial fee of $3000 and a royalty of $30 per copy. Roberts sold BASIC bundled with Altair for $75. The software was a work of love, and its founders and developers burnt midnight oil to deliver the product. However, many hobbyists simply borrowed the software instead of paying for it – software programs were not eligible for patents till 1981. Bill, the 20-year old founder of Traf-O-Data published appeals asking people to pay him for his software and not use it for free. In 1975, Traf-O-Data’s revenue was $16,005. At $439, the Altair was just a break-even sale – the profit came from sale of memory boards and other add-ons such as BASIC. During the Altair’s brief life, 60,000 units were sold. MITS had the biggest exhibition spaces, sponsored conventions, had full page
advertisements, and was a first mover. However, Roberts failed to keep up with its avalanche of orders for Altair that far exceeded projections – leading to a problem of plenty. Add-ons that were released were faulty and delayed (customers were offered refunds, but they wanted the computers). Other suppliers stepped in to capture the add-ons market. MITS’ distributorship model failed miserably and cash flow got squeezed. Other companies stepped in to meet the market demand that Roberts had so successfully created. He was now competing with smarter businesses and marketing geniuses, all of whom launched a range of newer computers with better design, pricing and distribution. By 1977, Roberts felt burned out. He was tired of his management responsibilities, and sold MITS for $6 million to a larger hardware supplier. He walked away from the computer industry with his share of $2 million. He bought a large farm, became a farmer, studied medicine and eventually became a small-town doctor. The home-based Traf-OData went on to change its name as its focus changed from handling data from traffic counters to developing software for computers. The company was now called Micro-Soft. Microsoft’s revenues today are $70 billion per year, with profits of $23 billion. Its founders Paul Allen and Bill Gates are among the richest people on Earth, with net-worth of $13 billion and $59 billion respectively. Altair 8800 sparked the computer revolution, but the company MITS and its founder Ed Roberts could not scale up – a problem that most SMEs face. They were brilliant innovators but not so great at business, and left the computer industry when it was still a baby
money matters
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Sec. 5A: A boon to Goans The Writer shares his experience of how Section 5A was added to the Income Tax Act, with active support of then North Goa MP, Harish Zantye
V B Prabhu Verlekar The writer is a senior Chartered Accountant and has authored books on taxation verlekar@bsnl.in
T
he Income Tax Act 1961 has a special and unique provision exclusively for Goan married couples, governed under Portuguese Civil Code, which entitles them the benefit of division of income in equal shares and consequent deduction claims resulting in substantial tax savings. Ever since Income Tax was introduced in Goa after Liberation from 1st April 1963, there had been utter confusion and controversy as to the exact status of Goans for the purpose of filing their tax returns, since Goan couples married under Portuguese Civil code were entitled for equal shares in all the properties and income of the Communion. In absence of any guidelines or legal precedents, tax returns were filed in the status of BOI, AOP and Individuals with different permutations and combinations of sources of income without any certainty. This was litigated before judicial authorities for over 30 years. The final blow came with the decision of Bombay High Court in Modu Timblo’s case where it was
(LtoR) Bhanu Prakash Singh (then Governor of Goa), Manmohan Singh and Harish Zantye
held that entire income of both the spouses should be clubbed together and taxed. This would mean that every Goan couple, even small illiterate street vendor couples, would have been liable for tax unknown to them with the sword of Tax Inspector Raj constantly hanging over their heads. When various stake holders with the Chartered Accountant (CA) fraternity at the forefront were contemplating steps to take, to overcome this Judgment, including appeal to the Supreme Court, which would have involved heavy costs with uncertain results, a small news item appeared in the local papers about the visit of then Finance Minister Manmohan Singh to Goa, to inaugurate a branch of then little known Bicholim Urban Co-operative Bank. The CA fraternity took this opportunity to fix a meeting with the Finance Minister through Harish N. Zantye, then Chairman and Founder of the Bank and North Goa Member of Parliament, to present the case before Manmohan Singh. Earlier to this meeting, I had the privilege to
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brief the FM at Raj Bhavan, in the presence of Zantye. I explained the issues involved and how the High Court decision would be unjust to Goans who are honest and law abiding citizens. Hardly any Congressmen had turned up to pay even a courtesy visit, as Manmohan Singh was considered a political lightweight. The FM was convinced about our case and was favourably inclined to redress the grievances of Goans. For this, I and two of my fellow colleagues had to follow up with CBDT Chairman, Law Secretary and Finance Ministry officials to make suitable amendment to the Income Tax Act with visits to North Block, New Delhi, just before the Budget session, accompanied by MP Harish Zantye, who ensured that we had easy access to these authorities. Ultimately, this resulted in bringing a new section 5A in Statute by Finance Act of 1994 with retrospective effect from 1-4-1963. Here it is worthwhile to understand the personality of Zantye, who facilitated this because of his special relationship with the FM. Harish Zantye popularly
known as ‘Anna’ belongs to famous Zantye family of Bicholim, known the world over for their brand of cashewnuts. Annas passion was the film industry, film distribution, social work and politics. His day would end around two every night after receiving collection reports from his chain of seven cinema houses, which he would visit every day. He had tremendous stamina and he would achieve whatever he sets his mind to – regardless of costs, risks and consequences. He was responsible for putting an end to MG Party’s rule in Goa, of which he was the Treasurer. He defeated Chief Minister Smt. Shashikala Kakodkar and was referred to as ‘Giant Killer’. Zantye was Cabinet Minister in Goa government and was subsequently elected as MP of North Goa. He was also in midst of many local political storms. He had a warm pleasing personality with an imposing figure in safari suit, with his chubby, innocent, ever smiling child like face and was always helpful to others. He had endeared himself in Parliament House with his charming personality and generous distribution of best quality Zantye cashewnuts, bagloads of which he would carry during his regular weekly flights to New Delhi to attend Parliament sessions. Many a Parliamentarian would refer to him as ‘Kajuwala’. Anna goaded the Finance Minister to inaugurate a new branch of Bicholim Urban Bank; brought him down to Goa immediately after Parliament was adjourned, and in the process developed a close bond with the FM. Every generation of Goans should be grateful to Harish Zantye, who is now in his 80s, the CA fraternity and Providence for the perpetual bounty bestowed on them through section 5A
what’s up goa
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Speaking Studio presents ‘interACT’ After the successful completion of ‘Speak Up!’ a weekend course for school children, Speaking Studio launches ‘interACT’, a 3-month Speech & Drama and Presentation Skills Program that will give each child an opportunity to perform on stage. The program is designed to develop confidence, self-expression, group interaction skills, presentation skills and a sense of achievement through roleplay, improvisation, story-telling, and poetry recitation. Sessions will be held once a week, from November 2015 through January 2016, when the children will get a chance to showcase their skills and learning from the program, through an enactment. Speaking Studio, a Persona & Skill Development Centre, was founded by Runa Menezes in
Ahmedabad in 2013. A former Assistant Prof. of English Literature at Carmel College, Nuvem, Menezes made the most of her move to Ahmedabad from Goa in 2008 by completing the Post Graduate Program in ‘Crafting Creative Communications’ from the prestigious Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA). Thereafter, she underwent several training programs in Voice & Speech, Accent Neutralization and Speech & Drama, before moving back to Goa. Runa is currently a visiting faculty at the MBA and IMBA programs of Goa University and a few other colleges. Through Speaking Studio, she has been conducting corporate training programs, courses for students and faculty development programs
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Avi’s Opticians launches First Visioffice Eye Partner in Goa for Eyecode glasses Avi’s Opticians, the Ophthalmic Opticians and Optometry clinic based at Curchorem Goa, launches first Essilor Visioffice 3D measurements system for the eyes in Goa to accommodate physiology of individuals with breakthrough technology specially designed to meet the unique visual needs of individuals by accounting for facial anatomy, reading behaviours and frame measurements. These Eyecode glasses provide limitless vision through your glasses giving the most natural vision for the wearer. Eyecode eyeglasses are manufactured using the world’s most advanced and latest technology Nanoptix, SynchorEyes, 4D Technology. These Visioffice takes the 3D eye measurments / eye rotation centre, frame measurements,
and captures individuals behaviour (head and eye movements) for making truly customised eyeglasses. While traditional prescriptions glasses deliver clear vision, with Eyecode’s customisation system, you can now experience instant and limitless vision without any effort. “With Eyecode, the precision of your lenses can be 5 times higher than conventional lenses. Your vision is instantly clear with no efforts required to adapt to your new lenses: Your posture remains natural. For the first time in Goa we are able to use your own real, personal 3-D measurements when creating your lenses – rather than nominal values. Thanks to Essilor Visioffice 3D eye measurements system and Eyecode glasses,” says a company statement
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Cake Mixing at Goa Marriott Resort
FC Goa players at the Goa Marriott cake mixing
Goa Marriott Resort & Spa hosted a delightful traditional Christmas Cake Mixing Ceremony recently. The invitees gamely donned aprons, gloves and caps, and armed themselves with bottles of liquor, ready to tackle the colourful mounds of dry fruits, nuts and spices. The special invitees this year were none other than the FC Goa golden boys, including Lucio, Gregory Arnolin and Jofre Mateu. Executive Chef Anupam Gulati briefly addressed the invitees and announced the commencement of the ceremony.
Being a long-awaited celebration of an age-old tradition, the spirited Marriott chefs, led by Executive Chef Anupam Gulati and Asst. Pastry Chef Samantha, were gleefully joined by the FC Goa team members, guests and friends in generously mixing the rich and vibrant ingredients, resulting in nothing short of a spectacular cake mixing event. The Marriott Associates were excited to be hosting this fun-filled holiday activity, heralding the onset of the new season
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BON APPÉTIT
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soi at sinq
Goa served the old-fashioned way Sahil Advalpalkar of Sinq has launched Soi – a restaurant that takes Goan cuisine to heart says HARSHVARDHAN BHATKULY
Tisryo Sukhem Coriander stuffed Mackerel Rawa fried Chonak
Crumb fried mussel
O
ne of the most abused words in the restaurant business is ‘Authentic Goan’ – when chicken fried rice and butter chicken is the fare of the day. So I was pleasantly surprised when I couldn’t see any of the not so Goan dishes on the menu at Soi – the recently launched restaurant at the nightclub Sinq on Aguada road. ‘Soi’ translates to grated coconut in Konkani – an ingredient that is non-negotiable in Goan menus – especially if you have the fish curry and xacuti on the boil. The intent of the restaurant was evident in its prelaunch stage itself – huge images of fried seafood with just the logo would invite your tastebud’s attention from hoardings and social media. So when I got to visit the
Name: Soi Location: Sinq, Opp Taj Holiday Village, Sinquerim Famous for: Goan fare Must Try: Tissryache Dangre Rating: 4/5 Meal For Two: `1,750/-
This is perhaps one of the few restaurants that allow you to sample and indulge in the Saraswat style of Hindu cuisine – tissryache dangre (clam cutlets) and bharlele bangde (mackerel stuffed with coriander led paste) – are an absolute treat.
78 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
restaurant on a lazy Sunday, my month-long wait was satiated. And how. Sinq is one of the few nightclubs in Goa, that has an intrinsic soul to the brand. The extension of the same in the restaurant on the upper deck is for everyone to see. And sample. A huge mural depicting various moods of Goan life stares at you from behind the bar. Pop artist Jimmy Devasia has let himself loose in painting Goa and Goans in bright colours. Snapshots of the same get carried over on the table mats. There is a bright red Vespa scooter of the old make and sitar to get you started on a ‘not the regular’ journey. The fare, much to my surprise, was very different from what most ‘authentic ‘places serve. This is also perhaps one
of the few restaurants that allow you to sample and indulge in the Saraswat style of Hindu cuisine – tissryache dangre (clam cutlets) and bharlele bangde (mackerel stuffed with coriander led paste) which does not use reichado masala – are an absolute treat. I am a self-decreed authority on frying techniques, and I rate the frying style at Soi very highly. I suggest that you make them play to their strength, which is sea food. I also recommend, the xacuti – which is a tad bit tangy and goes well with the local unddo or poli (poiee). Yes, the fare is way different from other Goa specific restaurants and you can feel the passion run high in Soi’s culinary statements. Little wonder, it gets packed before you can say the three-letter word
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Pics: Aliston Dias
Goa Management Association hosts its 40th AGM and Management Awards Goa Management Association (GMA), Goa’s premier organisation of management professionals and entrepreneurs, affiliated to All India Management Association (AIMA), recently held its 40th Annual General Meeting and Annual Management Awards function. Nitin Kunkolienkar was elected as the new President of GMA. He succeeds industrialist Ashok Chowgule. D. Kumar Pillai, Chairman of the Executive Committee led the proceedings, while Harshvardhan Bhatkuly, Hon. Secretary of GMA presented the annual report of the organization. The Annual Management Awards function was held after the business session. Following were awardees this year: Siddhesh Kurade of Persistent Systems Ltd (Manager of the Year); Brian Dias of Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd. (Young Manager of the Year); Karthik Pillai of Goa Institute of Management (Best Management Student, Post Graduate level); Sohraab Sarin of Saraswat College (Best Management Student, under Graduate level) and Pravin Devang of DMS College of Management (Best Management Student, Special Jury Award). The keynote address for the evening was delivered by R Mukundan, Managing Director of Tata Chemicals. Incoming President of GMA, Nitin Kunkolienkar spoke on his vision for the organization. Vice Chairman of GMA, Dr Pradeep Salgaonkar read out the citations of the awardees. Former Chairmen of GMA, members and business persons attended the event
R Mukundan
Ashok Chowgule
V B Prabhu Verlekar
Siddhesh Kurade
Ranjit Chugh
Michael Ribeiro
Prashant Deshpande
Mahesh Prabhu
Brian Dias
Sarvesh Parab
Nandini Vaidyanathan
Rajkumar Kamat
Sohraab Sarin
V M Gaitonde
Karthik Pillai
Anup Prabhu Verlekar
Dr Pradeep and Dr Seema Salgaonkar
Kumar and Laxmi Pillai
Harshvardhan Bhatkuly
Amin Ladak
Pravin Devang Nitin Kunkolienkar
80 | NOVEMBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
d goes to Brian Dias The Business Goa ‘Young Manager’ Awar
BNI Goa Awards Nite 2015 held The Awards Nite 2015 of the BNI Goa Region was held at Metropole, Nanutel recently and witnessed a gathering of more than 300 entrepreneurs across the region. Prior to the event, a regional one-to-one conclave was organized where the members from different chapters met and discussed mutual business opportunities, fulfilling the philosophy of BNI – ‘Givers Gain’. The keynote speaker was C K Kumaravel, founder and CEO of Naturals Salon & Spa. Other eminent guest speakers included Bipin Shah, Senior faculty at Entrepreneurship Development of India, Ahmedabad and Nandini Vaidhyanathan, founder of CARMa Connect, TED speaker. The event was inaugurated at the hands of the MP of South Goa Adv. Narendra Sawaikar. Other dignitaries present were Damodar Naik (President, Ravindra Bhavan), Dr. Pramod Sawant (MLA from Sankhali) and Sudin Naik (President, Goa State Industries Association). The event was supported by Quadros Motors (Principal Sponsor), Prime Media (TV Channel) and Timeline Goa (Media Partners)
C. K. Kumarvel
Adv Narendra Sawaikar
Rajkumar Kamat
Dr Pramod Sawant
Damu Naik
Sudin Naik
Nikhil Shah
Chirag Naik
Ashma Kamat
Sairaj Dhond
Milind Shirodkar
Evencio Quadros
Rasik Naik
Ajit Agranayak
Asha Arondekar
Ajit Mahabal
Vishwesh Kamat
Manoj Patil
Gajanan Kerkar
Dinesh Dhulapkar
Ajay Gramopadhye
Dr. Jeniffer Lewis Kamat
Leena Kamat
Priyanka Row
Rajesh Kenkre
Nimisha Kamat
Smita Keni
Parag Loliyenkar
Rajesh Kakodkar
Prashant Kunkolienkar
Vinay & Khushi Verma
Business Goa industry Dossier | NOVEMBER 2015 | 81
Pics Courtesy: Vilino Rajiv Fernandes Photography
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Gangaram Morajkar appointed on KRUCC
Wilson Vaz awarded doctorate in Physics
Gangaram S Morajkar, Chairman of Consumer Affairs Committee of Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has been nominated as member of the Konkan Railway Users Consultative Committee (KRUCC). Morajkar, a businessman from Panaji is also the member of the Zonal Railways Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), South Western Railways, Hubli division. Reacting to his nomination as member of KRUCC, Morajkar said “I am happy to be nominated as member of the KRUCC. I have been associated with Konkan Railway for a long time.” Morajkar has been member of both - ZRUCC and KRUCC - for the last 15 years. The tenure of the members of the KRUCC will be for two years (2015-2017). Morajkar said that during the meeting he will raise various pending demands related to Goa especially the demand to start Vasco-Tirupati train and to restart the Vasco-Miraj train. Morajkar also served as President of Lions Club of Panjim, last year
Wilson Agnelo Vaz, originally from Merces, was recently awarded a PhD in Physics by Goa University. He carried out studies on the structures of borate glasses containing different types of rare-earth ions with the intention of discovering the effect that additions of heavy ions have on the basic structures of these host glasses. His work is relevant in optimal usage of borosilicate glasses of windows, buildings, optical lasers, luminescent materials, in nuclear waste storage, etc. Wilson is a Teacher Grade I at GVM’s Smt Nelly Joildo Aguiar Higher Secondary School, Ponda. A well known quizmaster, he is also a life member Neutron Scattering Society of India
Dr. Babita Angle Prabhudesai is the new Chairperson of Margao Municipal Council Margao-based pathologist Dr Babita Angle Prabhudesai was declared as the new Chairperson of Margao Municipal Council by former Chief Minister Digambar Kamat at a meeting of Margao Civic Alliance that contested the municipal polls along with Vijai Sardesai’s Fatorda Forward. Dr. Babita was part of the Fatorda Forward panel. A successful practitioner and former state badminton player, Dr Babita said, “I am completely a novice in this field but I took up this challenge. People of ward six supported me, despite a sustained campaign that tried to portray me as an outsider; and voted for me. My entire team has worked tirelessly and without any expectations and they are the real winners”
Sushant Tari’s company creates the sets of India-Africa Forum Summit at Delhi Sushant Tari’s company TPT Productions Pvt Ltd was responsible for creating and executing the set designs for the historic IndiaAfrica Forum Summit that was held recently at New Delhi. “The Sets were plain and simple. Accuracy in design and execution complimented the entire set. All colour used were juxtaposed over a clear white background. The white circle suspended at the epicenter was 60 feet in diameter and 24 feet in height. It weighed three thousand kgs. It is great to be part of such a landmark event. We had over 100 people from our Mumbai office working day and night for over a month on this project. We were also ably supported by workforce in Delhi. I am proud that we are chosen to execute sets of such magnitude,” said Sushant about the set involved at the Summit. Sushant is an alumnus of Goa College of Art and a well-known name in the set design business
Subodh Kerkar launches contemporary cultural space, MOG
Artist Subodh Kerkar has launched a new contemporary cultural space, the Museum of Goa (MOG). “This project is driven by my own personal engagement with the arts and culture. Art is not just my profession, but the very breath of my life. Creativity is an essentially private activity, yet no artist speaks to himself alone. He needs an audience. I have also long felt the need to go beyond my personal artistic adventures and work towards creating a vibrant art scene in Goa. This unique and inclusive space for the Arts, will bring together artists, curators, collectors, art enthusiasts, educators, students and audiences from all walks of life. It will not only be a space for exhibitions, but will also organize workshops, residencies, lectures, talks and art courses. MOG will embrace a universal perspective and provide a platform to Indian contemporary artists to showcase their work and will also connect them with local and international milieus,” said Subodh, about his new project. MOG is housed at Pilerne Industrial Estate, Bardez 82 | novemBER 2015 | Business Goa industry Dossier
77 1. Which Goan 5 star hotel has introduced Mark Anthony Long, hailing from Australia, as its new Executive Chef? 2. Which brand of cosmetics was founded by Charles Revson? 3. In 1919, after which industrialist did Viceroy Lord Chelmsford rename the township of Sakchi? 4. ‘The Banker to Every Indian’ is the advertising punchline of which public sector bank? 5. Where in Assam was India’s first petroleum refinery established? 6. Identify this entrepreneur Answers to BG Quiz 73: 1. Infosys 2. Jack Welch 3. Lord Raj Bagri 4. Law Firms 5. Adventz 6. Tetra Pak Email your entries to businessgoa.media@gmail.com First all correct entry will get 1 year’s subscription to Business Goa