Goa, Dec. 15 -- In view of the Zilla Panchayat elections, the Goa government has announced a paid holiday on Saturday, December 20, 2025, across the state to enable voters to exercise their franchise.

As per a notification issued by the General Administration Department, the paid holiday will apply to government departments, industrial and commercial establishments, private offices, and daily wage earners. Casual and contract workers who are eligible to vote in the Zilla Panchayat polls in North and South Goa are also covered under the order.

The move is intended to ensure greater voter turnout during the polling process. The announcement has drawn public attention, with some seeking clarification on whether the holiday will extend to s...