The BJP's recent candidate list for the Lok Sabha elections has been making headlines. While the exclusion of Varun Gandhi came to light, the party took a surprising step by nominating figures like Arun Govil and Kangana Ranaut. Amidst the list, a name emerged that sparked curiosity - Pallavi Dempo, BJP's candidate from South Goa. Pallavi Dempo has been documented as the first woman in Goa that BJP has fielded for the Lok Sabha election. So, let's dive into who Pallavi Dempo is.
Pallavi Dempo is a distinguished female industrialist and the executive director of Dempo Industries, known for her entrepreneurship and academic contributions in Goa. With a graduation in Chemistry and an MBA degree from MIT Pune, Pallavi (49) manages the media and real estate divisions of Dempo Industries. She now stands as the BJP's pick for the South Goa constituency, currently represented by the Congress leader Francisco Sardinha.
BJP has won this seat only twice
Since 1962, the BJP has secured victory in this constituency just twice. South Goa, encompassing 20 assembly segments, has seen power trade hands between the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party, United Goans Party, and the Indian National Congress. BJP celebrated wins in the elections of 1999 and 2014 but couldn't maintain their hold subsequently.
Dempo Family: Patrons of education
Pallavi's husband, Shrinivas Dempo, is a prominent businessman heading the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industries (GCCI). The Dempo family has adopted a government high school under the Village School Adoption Program, aimed at providing vocational training to girls. Pallavi presides over the Indo-German Educational and Cultural Society, fostering cultural enrichment between Germany and Goa. She is also a trustee of the Moda Goa Foundation, a fashion and textile museum initiated by Wendell Rodricks.
Pallavi's involvement with various committees
Between 2012 and 2016, Pallavi served as a member of the Executive Council of Goa University's affiliated Academic Council. In addition to her association with various organizations, Pallavi Dempo is an active member of the Goa Cancer Society's managing committee and part of the core committee of the India Management Association's Women's Council.
