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Stage Set for the Tenth Edition of Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2025; Tourney Logs Record 533 Entriesย 


~ The 10th edition of Goaโ€™s premier tennis event sees a significant rise in participation, showcasing talent from seasoned professionals to promising juniors across multiple categories.

Panaji, Jan 2025 – The tenth edition of the Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2025, a premier tennis tournament, is set to kick off at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias in Miramar on January 23. With a record breaking 533 entries received, the event promises a thrilling display of talent from a diverse range of participants, including veterans, seasoned professionals and promising juniors.

Organised jointly by Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias, Goa’s first tennis club and the Gadre Group, in collaboration with the Goa State Tennis Association (GSTA), the tournament has garnered tremendous interest this year in the tennis fraternity.

In the tournamentโ€™s Masters segment, the 45+ category has received the highest number of entries, 61, followed by 55 entries in the Masters doubles 90+ and 40 in the Masters doubles 110+ category. Other entries include 30 in the Masters doubles 120+, 32 in the Masters singles 60+ and 30 in the Masters singles 55+ category. The 35+ mixed doubles, the only mixed category in the Masters segment, has recorded 11 entries. 

The Open category also boasts significant participation, led by 118 entries in the menโ€™s singles and 43 teams in the menโ€™s doubles. The ladiesโ€™ singles category has drawn 28 entries, while the Open mixed doubles segment has 23 teams. In the junior divisions, the boys under-16 category has 26 entries, the girls under-16 category has 15 entries, the boys under-12 category has 13 entries, while eight players have registered to participate in the girls under-12 category.

โ€œThe Gadre Gaspar Dias Open continues to grow each year and the remarkable participation this time is a testament to its increasing popularity. The event not only highlights the competitive nature of tennis in Goa but also nurtures young talent, setting new standards for future tournaments,โ€ said Sameer Kakodkar, President of the GSTA.

Arjun Gadre, owner of the Gadre Group, the eventโ€™s main associate, expressed his pride in the tournamentโ€™s continued success: โ€œAs we celebrate the 10th edition of the Gadre Gaspar Dias Open, itโ€™s heartening to see how this tournament has become one of Goaโ€™s premier sporting events. We remain committed to supporting Goaโ€™s sporting community and look forward to another exciting competition filled with skill, sportsmanship and unforgettable moments.โ€

The tournament will begin with the Masters category matches commencing from January 23 to 26, followed by the highly anticipated Open category matches from January 27 to February 2.

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PIB Goa and CBC Goa Employees Take the Pledge of Swachhata


As part of the ongoing ‘Swachhata Fortnight’ celebrations from January 16th to 31st, 2025, employees of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Goa and the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) Goa reaffirmed their commitment to cleanliness and hygiene.

In a solemn ceremony held today, Shri Nana Meshram, Director of PIB Goa, administered the pledge of Swachhata to the staff members. The employees pledged to contribute to the maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene in their workplace and surroundings.

The ‘Swachhata Fortnight’ initiative aims to promote cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation among citizens, and to encourage community participation in maintaining a clean environment.

By taking the pledge, the employees of PIB Goa and CBC Goa have demonstrated their commitment to upholding the values of cleanliness and hygiene, and to contributing to the nation’s efforts towards a cleaner and healthier environment.

The ceremony was a testament to the dedication of the employees towards promoting cleanliness and hygiene, and serves as an inspiration to others to join in the efforts towards a Swachh Bharat.

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The Opinion Poll Day preserved the identity of Goa


The Directorate of Official Language, Government of Goa โ€‹โ€‹organised special programmes in North and South Goa on the occasion of the Opinion Poll Day. A special programme titled as Opinion Poll: The Movement for Goa’s Existence’ was held in South Goa in collaboration with M.A. Konkani Department of Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Quepem. Konkani writer and thinker Adv. Uday Bhembre gave information on the events of the Opinion Poll day. Adv. Uday Bhembre, is one of the leaders who expressed Opinion Poll day and worked to safeguard Goaโ€™s separate identity, highlighted the important events from 1963 to 1967. He further said that this day preserved the separate identity of Goa.

Director of Official Language Prashant Shirodkar, Principal of the college Dr. Joydeep Bhattacharjee, Asst. Professor Sushant Naik, Programme Coordinator Deepraj Satordekar, Junior Translator Sneha Sabnis, and other assistant professors as well as students were present.

Director Prashant Shirodkar said that Adv. Uday Bhembre is the right person who can share events of Opinion Poll which he experienced and such programmes are organised to create awareness about the day among the students. Asst. Professor Sushant Naik delivered the welcome address. Asst. Professor Deepraj Satordekar introduced the guest. Translator Sneha Sabnis gave the vote of thanks.

In North Goa, Directorate Official Language, the Department of Konkani and the Department of Political Science of the Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Khandola jointly organised the Opinion Poll day programme. At the event, senior journalist and writer Sandesh Prabhudesai shed light on the history of the Opinion Poll. Sandesh Prabhudesai said that Opinion Poll gave Goa an independent existence and the youth made a huge contribution during that period. He added that it is because of this day that Goans can express their views today.

Deputy Director of Official Language โ€‹โ€‹Anil Sawant delivered the introductory address. Principal Dr. Purnakala Samant delivered the welcome address. Asst. Professor Prithvi Naik moderated the function and introduced the guest. Asst. Professor Divya Govekar delivered the vote of thanks. Prof. Prakash Vazrikar, Head of Konkani Department, Prof. Seema Salgaonkar, and assistant professors from various departments and students were present.

About 230 students, teachers and government employees learned about the Opinion Poll at both the programmes.

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Breaking News: 8th Pay Commission – A New Era for Central Government Employees and Pensioners?


In a move that could bring cheer to millions of central government employees and pensioners, the Union Cabinet is expected to approve the 8th pay commission. This development has sparked widespread speculation about the potential salary revisions and benefits that could be on the anvil.

What is the 8th Pay Commission?

The 8th pay commission is a proposed panel that will review and revise the salaries and allowances of central government employees and pensioners. The commission is expected to take into account the rising cost of living, inflation, and other economic factors to recommend salary hikes and benefit increases.

Expected Benefits for Central Government Employees

If the 8th pay commission is approved, central government employees can expect a range of benefits, including:

  • Salary Hike: A potential increase of 20% to 35% in basic salary, which could translate to a hike of โ‚น20,000 to โ‚น25,000.
  • Revised Allowances: Updates to allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance (TA).
  • Improved Retirement Benefits: A potential increase in pension benefits of up to 30%.

Impact on Pensioners

The 8th pay commission is also expected to bring cheer to pensioners, with potential benefits including:

  • Increased Pension: A hike in pension benefits of up to 30%.
  • Revised Medical Allowances: Updates to medical allowances to help pensioners meet their healthcare expenses.

What’s Next?

While the Union Cabinet’s approval of the 8th pay commission is still awaited, the development has generated significant excitement among central government employees and pensioners. Once the commission is formally announced, it is expected to submit its recommendations within 18-24 months.

Stay tuned for further updates on the 8th pay commission and its potential impact on central government employees and pensioners.

Key Statistics:

  • Approximately 48.62 lakh central government employees will benefit from the 8th pay commission.
  • Around 67.85 lakh pensioners will also benefit from the commission’s recommendations.
  • The 8th pay commission is expected to submit its recommendations within 18-24 months.
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Joaquim Mendes: The Face of Modern Fashion


In the picturesque village of Tiracol, Goa, a young boy named Joaquim Mendes grew up with a passion for creativity and a dream to make it big in the fashion world. Today, Joaquim is a successful model, graphic designer, and proud representative of Goa on the global stage.

Joaquim’s journey to success was not an easy one. Growing up in a small village, he faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but his determination and hard work ultimately paid off. With the unwavering support of his wife, Joaquim took a leap of faith and pursued his dreams in the fashion industry.

A Leap of Faith

A year ago, Joaquim embarked on an exciting modeling journey, embracing opportunities that came his way. His experience as a graphic designer significantly influenced his approach to modeling, allowing him to bring a unique perspective to his work.

“My experience as a graphic designer enhances my modeling by sharpening my eye for detail, composition, and aesthetics,” Joaquim explains. “It helps me understand how colors, angles, and lighting impact visuals, allowing me to pose more creatively and contribute to the artistic vision.”

Awards and Accolades

Joaquim’s hard work and dedication paid off when he was crowned Mr. Popular 2024 at the Mr. Goa pageant. This achievement marked a surreal moment in his journey, filling him with gratitude and pride.

“Being crowned Mr. Popular 2024 felt surreal,” Joaquim recalls. “I was overwhelmed with gratitude, thinking of my journey from Tiracol to the spotlight. It was a moment of pride, knowing my hard work paid off.”

Traveling the World

As a model, Joaquim has had the opportunity to travel to various destinations, including Istanbul, where he competed in the Top Model of Universe finals. His experiences have broadened his perspective, teaching him empathy, adaptability, and respect for diverse cultures.

“Traveling and experiencing different cultures have shaped me into a more open-minded and appreciative person,” Joaquim says. “It has taught me to respect and celebrate diversity, and I hope to continue exploring the world and learning from its diverse cultures.”

Balancing Modeling and Graphic Design

Joaquim credits time management and prioritization for his ability to balance his modeling career with his work as a graphic designer. He finds that both careers complement each other, allowing him to stay motivated and productive.

“Balancing my modeling career with graphic design involves staying organized and focused,” Joaquim explains. “I prioritize my tasks, manage my time effectively, and make sure to take breaks to recharge and avoid burnout.”

Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity

As a model from Goa, Joaquim hopes to promote diversity and representation in the industry. He believes that his presence can help break stereotypes and showcase the unique beauty of India’s diverse cultures.

“I want to inspire young people from underrepresented communities to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams,” Joaquim says. “I hope to use my platform to promote diversity and inclusivity, and to celebrate the beauty of India’s diverse cultures.”

Future Plans and Aspirations

Joaquim’s long-term goal is to establish himself as a global fashion icon, advocating for sustainable fashion and inclusivity. He plans to achieve this by refining his skills, collaborating with top designers, and using his platform to inspire positive change.

“I hope to continue growing as a model and graphic designer, while using my platform to promote diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability,” Joaquim says. “I want to inspire young people to follow their dreams, and to never give up on their passions.”

As we conclude our conversation with Joaquim Mendes, we’re left inspired by his remarkable journey, passion, and perseverance. His story serves as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and staying true to one’s values.