On 20th Sept’24, was the Annual General Function of Verna Industries Association (VIA), one with a difference.

VIA recognized Octonogerian Ms Shashi Soni, who is a true inspiration. One who, despite her incredible achievements, including being awarded the Padma Shri for Trade & Industry by the President of India, still shows that age is no bar, to live one’s passion & dreams.
Then we had Triple Amputee Tinkesh Kaushik, another true inspiration to one-&-all that impediments are only a state of one’s own mind. That ultimately life is very simple and only about persistence, perseverance & patience with strong self-belief. Three years ago, just post Covid when every one’s morale was at a low, Tinkesh showed VIA President Pradip the way forward, and opened his vista’s on leading VIA differently when they along with Tennis Star Leander Paes cycled together through the scenic Goan Villages of Assolna, Velim, Cuncolim & Chinchinim. Highly commendable that despite being a Triple Amputee, he also scaled the Base Camp of Mt Everest

They were recognised by another great local Goan, Justice Valmiki Sa Menezes, of the Bombay High Court in Goa, who delivered a highly inspiring industry centric key note address.

Mr Kalpak Arware now takes over the reigns of VIA as President from Pradip AP da Costa