Shrinivas Dempo, noted industrialist and philanthropist was conferred the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy), one of the highest civilian honours of the Republic of Italy, at a special investiture ceremony held in Panaji. The award was presented by the Consul General of Italy in Mumbai, Walter Ferrara.
Dempo has served as the Honorary Vice Consul of Italy in Goa since 2013. In this role, he has played a pivotal part in assisting Italian nationals visiting or residing in the state. The honour specifically recognises his sustained efforts in resolving complex matters involving Italian citizens and investments, often in close coordination with the Goa state government to ensure timely administrative and legal support.
Addressing the gathering, Consul General Ferrara highlighted Dempo’s significant contributions to strengthening Indo-Italian relations. He noted that, as a representative of the Italian Republic in Goa, Dempo has on numerous occasions provided substantial assistance, not only in advancing bilateral relations but also in extending support to Italian nationals during their stay in Goa. “I have always appreciated his spirit of cooperation,” Ferrara remarked.
Ferrara further stated that Dempo has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism in promoting and reinforcing ties between Italy and the local community. “His contribution has been fundamental to the success of numerous initiatives, particularly those involving sensitive cases concerning Italian citizens residing in or passing through Goa,” he said.
In his acceptance address, Dempo observed that Goa shares a distinctive historical and cultural bond with Italy and Europe, shaped by openness, enterprise, and dialogue. “This award symbolises that enduring relationship,” he said, adding that the recognition was not solely personal but reflected the collective efforts of many institutions and individuals with whom he had the privilege to work over the years.
“In today’s interconnected world, relationships between nations are strengthened not only through governments but also through people-to-people engagement—across business, education, culture, and innovation,” Dempo remarked. He also noted that Italy’s emphasis on excellence, craftsmanship, and sustainability resonates deeply with his own values.
The Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia is a prestigious Italian civilian decoration awarded to individuals who have promoted friendly relations with Italy or made significant contributions to its international cooperation. It is frequently conferred on foreign nationals for exceptional service in cultural, economic, or diplomatic fields, thereby enhancing Italy’s global engagement.
The investiture ceremony was attended by Consul General Walter Ferrara’s wife, Olga Ferrara; Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shripad Naik; Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Sadanand Tanawade; Minister for Public Works Digambar Kamat; Minister for Panchayati Raj Mauvin Godinho; Auxiliary Bishop Simiao Fernandes; industrialists Audhut Timblo and Dattaraj Salgaocar; members of the Dempo family; and other distinguished guests.
Dempo is the Chairman of the Goa-based Dempo Group of Companies, having diversified interests in industries such as calcined petroleum coke, shipbuilding, food processing, real estate and newspaper publishing. Under his leadership, the Group has expanded its influence and maintained a strong reputation in both industrial and community development.
Dempo earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Mumbai in 1990 and 1992 respectively. In 1995, he completed his Master of Science in Industrial Administration and Finance from Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
He has served as the President of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and has previously been Chairman of the Western Region of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and President of the All India Management Association (AIMA). He is the Chairman (Independent Director) of the Automobile Corporation of Goa Ltd, a Tata Group Company and an Independent Director at Kirloskar Brothers Limited. Additionally, he serves as the Honorary Vice Consul of Italy in Goa, India, since 2013.
Dempo has a deep association with football, having patronized a premier football club and served as President of the Goa Football Association (GFA) and Vice President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in the past. Beyond football, he is an ardent supporter of cricket and table tennis. He is a co-promoter of Goa Challengers Team of Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT), India’s premier professional table tennis league, reflecting his passion for fostering sports development in the country.
In academia, Dempo is a member of the Executive Council of Goa University and a Trustee on the Board of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) in Pittsburgh, USA. His philanthropic efforts include affiliations with organizations like the Charles Correa Foundation and the Goa Cancer Society, reflecting his commitment to societal well-being.
