As part of the Fire Prevention Week celebrations, the Directorate of Fire &\Emergency Services, Government of Goa, in collaboration with Nestlé India Ltd., Usgao, successfully organized the All-Goa Quiz Competition on 16th April2025 at the Main Auditorium, Institute of Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji, Goa.
The event aimed to foster awareness among school students on two key fronts— General Knowledge and Fire Safety Awareness. A total of 66 students from 33 schools across Goa enthusiastically participated, making the event a vibrant and educational platform for young minds.
The Chief Guest for the occasion was Shri. Nitin V. Raiker, Director, Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services, Government of Goa. The event was also attended by Shri. Rajendra Haldankar, Deputy Director (Fire), Shri. Pundalik Parab, Deputy Director (Administration), Shri Manmohan Dhar, Factory Manager, Nestle India Limited, Usgao and Shri. Sanjay Bandare, Head-Corporate Affairs, West Region from Nestlé India Ltd., along with senior officials from the department.
The function began with a warm Welcome Address delivered by Shri. Rajendra Haldankar, Dy. Director (Fire) who set the tone for the day by highlighting the importance of fire safety education among youth.
Shri. Nitin V. Raiker, Director, Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services in his address, encouraged the participants and emphasized the need for fire safety awareness at the school level. Shri Raiker further briefed the Participants in the quiz & said that ―This competition is more than a test of knowledge— it is an investment in a safer future. It is inspiring to see students taking an active interest in fire safety, which is a life skill that can help protect not only themselves but also those around them. I commend the efforts of all schools, teachers, and organizers for making this event meaningful and impactful.”
The quiz was skilfully conducted by Dr. Wilson Vaz, who served as the Quiz Master. His engaging style kept both participants and the audience involved throughout. In addition to the main rounds, questions were also posed to the audience, and spot prizes were distributed to encourage wider participation and enthusiasm.
Results of the Competition:
First Place – G. S. Amonkar Vidya Mandir, Mapusa, Goa
Second Place – Bhatikar Model High School, Margao Goa
Third Place – The King’s School, Margao, Goa
Runner-Up – Saraswat Vidhyalaya, Mapusa Goa
Shri. Shripad Gawas, Divisional Officer, North Zone, compered the function with great enthusiasm and proposed the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the
efforts of all those who contributed to the success of the event. The Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services extends heartfelt gratitude to Nestlé India Ltd. for their generous support and to all participating schools, teachers, and staff members. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a safer, more informed community through education and awareness.The event received overwhelming appreciation from the participating schools, teachers, and students, who found it both educational and enjoyable.
The 8th All-Goa School Fire Safety Quiz stands as a testament to the power ofneducation in promoting safety, alertness, and community preparedness—core values celebrated during Fire Prevention Week.
