The Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) released a Romi Konkani book titled Nouchalok ani Tachi Kola (Notes on the Elements of Shipping) at a function held at Ravindra Bhavan, Vasco, marking the 63rd National Maritime Day celebrations in Goa.
The book was released by Goa Governor P. S. Sreedharan Pillai in the presence of representatives from the maritime sector and academia. The event was organised in collaboration with the National Maritime Day Celebration Committee, Goa.
Authored by Capt Eddie Viegas, the publication focuses on the fundamentals of shipping and maritime practices. Written in Roman Konkani, the book aims to introduce students and aspiring seafarers to navigation concepts and operational aspects of inland and coastal vessels.
Speaking on the occasion, the author said the initiative was driven by a gap in structured knowledge among inland vessel crews. He noted that while the marine industry has evolved significantly over the decades, training and knowledge dissemination have not kept pace in several areas.
“It is with the idea of trying to fill in the vacuum of knowledge… that this humble attempt is being made to write this book in our own mother tongue—Konkani,” Viegas said.
© DKAOriginally from Loliem in Canacona, Viegas has over six decades of experience in the maritime sector. His career includes service with the Shipping Corporation of India, command of ocean-going vessels, and later work as a marine surveyor and maritime expert associated with international and government agencies.
DKA president Fr Myron Jesin Barreto said the book contributes to the preservation and promotion of Roman Konkani while also serving an educational purpose.
The book is available for purchase at the Dalgado Konknni Akademi office in Panaji.
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