History of the Goa Radio Amateurs Society (GRAS)
The Goa Radio Amateurs Society (GRAS) was established in the late 1960s, marking the formal organization of ham radio enthusiasts in the region. Founded under the initiative of Sulu/VU2GV, with C. E. Albuquerque serving as its first president, GRAS quickly became a central hub for amateur radio activities in Goa. Venkatesh Angle/VU2WA, from the P & T Department, played a pivotal role in introducing new programs and nurturing the local ham community. His contributions were significant in ensuring that GRAS remained active and influential in the early years.
GRAS expanded its presence by establishing branches in Vasco, Margao, and Panaji, where monthly meetings, Morse code classes, and discussions on equipment issues took place. This period laid the foundation for a thriving ham radio community in Goa.
Sustaining the Legacy into the 21st Century
In the 2000s, VU2SMS (Manju) and VU2ROE (Roni) played crucial roles in keeping GRAS vibrant, organizing various activities and special activations. Notable events included the Grandi Island activation in 2009, in collaboration with the National Institute of Amateur Radio (NIAR), and the special operation during the Lusofonia Games in 2014. These activities showcased GRAS’s commitment to technical excellence and community service.
Formal Registration and Leadership in 2024
A significant milestone in GRAS’s history was its formal registration as an official society in 2024. The founding members who played key roles in this formalization were:
- Mahendra Kannavar (VU2ZMK) – Founding Member and President
- Sandesh Bhat (VU3FGJ) – Founding Member and Secretary
- Amey Pandit (VU2YQ) – Founding Member and Treasurer
- Ronald Rodrigues (VU2ROE) – Founding Member
- Ranjan Chakrabarty (VU2APU) – Founding Member
- Vaishabh Jalmi (VU3IAG) – Founding Member
- Vishal Naik (VU2DDT) – Founding Member
- Carmelito Andrade (VU2FUD) – Founding Member
Their intent in formalizing GRAS was to create a structured and sustainable framework for ham radio operations in Goa, ensuring the society’s longevity and ability to serve the amateur radio community effectively.
Continuing the Tradition
Today, GRAS remains a cornerstone of the ham radio community in Goa. It engages in a wide range of activities, including technical workshops, emergency communication drills, and public outreach, keeping the spirit of amateur radio alive and well. The legacy of its founders, along with the ongoing contributions of its members, ensures that GRAS remains at the forefront of amateur radio in Goa, continually fostering innovation, learning, and community service.
