Founders OF GRAS
Meet Our Leaders
Mahendra Kannavar VU2ZMK
President
Mahindra Kannavar, the President of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society, has an extensive background in instrumentation and electronics. For the over 20 years, he has led a successful enterprise specializing in smart industrial automation systems. A dedicated ham radio operator for over 7 years, Mahindra combines technical expertise with a passion for radio communication. He is also an avid traveler. Known for his competitive spirit, Mahindra has won numerous global-level awards and emerged as the winner in many prestigious competitions. His leadership and extensive experience are invaluable to the society, driving it towards excellence and innovation.
Sandesh Bhat VU3FGJ
Secretary
Sandesh Bhat, a founding member and the Secretary of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society, holds an MBA in Marketing, Finance, and Operations, and is a Quant from WorldQuant University. After a successful career owning a hedge fund company, Sandesh retired early to pursue his passions. He is an experienced skydiver with a A License, para-glider – PG3, and para-motorist – PPG2. Additionally, he enjoys over-landing, camping, and off-grid living. Sandesh has been a ham radio operator for over 4 years and a dedicated shortwave listener for over 20 years. He has expertise in propagation forecasting algorithms and antenna design. His extensive background in finance and operations, coupled with his adventurous spirit and technical skills, make him a vital leader within the society, driving innovation and excellence.
Amey Pandit VU2YQ
Treasurer
Amey Pandit, the Treasurer of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society, brings over 13 years of expertise in electronics and holds an advanced degree in embedded systems. Passionate about ham radio, amateur astronomy, and radio astronomy, Amey has been an active operator since 2015 and a dedicated shortwave listener since 2004. Known for his skills in satellite communications, Amey’s technical acumen and accountability make him an excellent treasurer. His meticulous nature ensures the society’s finances are managed responsibly. Additionally, his hobby as an avid home brewer adds to his diverse interests and dynamic personality.
Ronald Rodrigues VU2ROE
Founding Member
Ronald Rodrigues, known as Rony, has been a licensed Grade 1 ham radio operator since 1991. His journey began as a Shortwave Listener in the 80s, captivated by Morse code transmissions. Joining the Bhavan’s Amateur Radio Club in Bombay, he progressed from student to instructor and then secretary, training over 100 individuals. Rony gained critical experience in emergency communication during the 1993 Latur earthquake. He was also involved in MRF car rallies and promoted science and ham radio in remote areas with the Kanad Vigyan Prathisthan. After serving as a 2nd officer in the merchant navy, he returned to Goa in 1998 and focused on digital ham radio and satellite communication. A creative experimenter and mentor, Rony’s contributions make him a valued member of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society.
Ranjan Chakrabarty VU2APU
Founding Member
Ranjan Chakrabarty brings a wealth of experience and a diverse background to the Goa Radio Amateurs Society. Having lived in Zurich for several years, he developed a keen interest in artisan baking. A passionate home brewer from his early days, Ranjan has over 40 years of experience as a ham radio operator. He retired to Goa after successfully running a business consulting firm in Mumbai. Ranjan’s international experience and long-standing dedication to ham radio make him a valued member of the society.
Vaishabh Jalmi VU3IAG
Founding Member
Vaishabh Vasudev Jalmi holds a BE in Electronics and Telecommunication and has been a dedicated ham radio operator for the past 4 years. He is very active during field days and plays a crucial role in managing the society’s website blogs. Professionally, Vaishabh is an expert in RF communication, antenna testing and design, with 2 years of experience in the mobile communication antenna design and testing industry. In addition to his technical skills, he is also a tech blogger, social media content creator, and YouTuber. Vaishabh’s multifaceted expertise and enthusiasm make him an invaluable asset to the society.
Vishal Naik VU2DDT
Founding Member
Naik Vishal Gajanan, a lawyer by profession, has been instrumental in the formation of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society, providing invaluable legal advice and support. A ham radio operator for the past 4 years, Vishal combines his professional expertise with his passion for radio communication. His dedication to ensuring the society’s legal compliance and structure has been crucial to its establishment and ongoing success. Vishal’s contributions make him an essential part of the society’s leadership.
Carmelito Andrade VU2FUD
Founding Member
Carmelito Jose Andrade is a lecturer at ITI Cacora, specializing in the Drone Technician trade for the past 2 years. With a background in electronics and communication and extensive experience in industrial automation and radio frequency engineering, he brings 15 years of software consulting experience to the society. Carmelito is highly skilled in antenna simulation, adding significant technical expertise to the Goa Radio Amateurs Society. His diverse background and teaching experience enrich the society’s knowledge base and technical capabilities.
