Category: Events in Goa

Events in Goa

MRAI Sustainable Steel Conference 2025 Opens in Goa with a Strong Call for Green Transition in India’s Steel Sector

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa, November 9, 2025 — The MRAI Sustainable Steel Conference 2025 (MSSC 2025), organised by the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), opened today at ITC Grand Goa, marking the state’s first major ferrous-focused steel and recycling conference. Supported by the Ministry of Steel, Government of India, and the National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology (NISST), the two-day event drew over 300 delegates, including steelmakers, recyclers, policymakers, and sustainability experts from across India.

The conference, themed “Green Steel and Sustainable Growth,” aims to accelerate India’s transition toward low-carbon steelmaking, aligning with the government’s roadmap for 300 million tonnes of sustainable steel production by 2030. The inauguration began with the traditional lamp lighting, followed by a welcome address by Mr. Zain Nathani, Vice President, MRAI, who emphasized that the discussions held at MSSC 2025 would define the next decade of India’s steel industry, particularly in the domains of standards, sustainability, and innovation.

Mr. Keyur Shah, Managing Director, Mono Steel (India) Ltd. and MRAI Board Director, noted that this marks Goa’s first ferrous conference by MRAI and highlighted the association’s evolution from 45 members to over 1,800. He also discussed significant policy wins such as zero import duty on ferrous scrap, simplified PCI procedures, and India’s vehicle scrappage policy under NITI Aayog, while announcing plans for green circular recycling parks and skill development programs.

Mr. Yogesh Mandhani, President of the All India Induction Furnace Association (AIIFA), reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to sustainability, citing that 17 companies have already received Green Steel Certificates from NISST. He stressed that collaboration between the industry and government will be crucial in ensuring affordable, sustainable steel production.

MRAI President Mr. Sanjay Mehta lauded the Ministry of Steel’s proactive engagement, noting that MRAI now operates across 11 recycling verticals in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Environment. He also announced plans for upcoming vertical-specific conferences across India, covering both ferrous and non-ferrous sectors.

Addressing the conference, Shri Parmjeet Singh, Director of NISST, outlined India’s Green Steel Taxonomy, introduced in December 2024, which provides the framework for classifying low-carbon steel. He highlighted that 47% of India’s 200 million tonnes of steel capacity comes from the secondary sector and 38% of this production uses ferrous scrap — underscoring recycling’s pivotal role in sustainability.

In a virtual address, Shri V. K. Tripathi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, noted that India, now the world’s second-largest steel producer with 152 million tonnes of crude steel output, must focus on producing steel sustainably. He outlined the ministry’s strategy of short-term energy efficiency, medium-term hydrogen and carbon capture, and long-term net-zero steelmaking by 2070.

The inaugural day featured technical sessions on BIS standards and the evolving green steel market. BIS Director Shri Dwaipayan Bhadra emphasized the organisation’s collaborative and research-driven approach to standards, while a second session moderated by Mr. Abhijit Kulkarni of EY–Parthenon explored green steel procurement, financing, and policy frameworks.

Panellists from CII, RMI India Foundation, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and Metalogic PMS discussed the importance of supportive policies and concessional financing to enable MSMEs to join the green transition. The day concluded with a networking dinner, fostering collaboration among government officials, industry leaders, and sustainability experts against Goa’s coastal backdrop.

The MRAI Sustainable Steel Conference 2025 continues on November 10, featuring discussions on carbon credits, recycling technology, and policy roadmaps for India’s sustainable industrial future.

Events in Goa

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov and UK’s Ellie Garrett Triumph at IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The fifth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, India began in breathtaking fashion as the sun rose over Miramar Beach, with the Hon. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, officially flagging off the event. Alongside him were Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Deepak Raj, Race Director, Saiyami Kher, Actress and Race Ambassador, and Neil D’Silva, Event Director. The event saw more than 1,300 triathletes from 31 countries dive into the Arabian Sea to begin their quest for one of the most challenging and scenic endurance races in Asia.

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov delivered a commanding performance to win the men’s title with a time of 4:25:47, while the United Kingdom’s Ellie Garrett claimed the women’s crown, finishing in 5:18:43. The Indian Air Force contingent dominated the relay category, sweeping all three podium positions.

The triathlon tested participants through a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycling leg, and a 21.1 km run, winding through Goa’s heritage-lined streets and coastal beauty. Thousands of spectators lined the route, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captured the energy and inclusivity of the IRONMAN spirit.

In a memorable highlight, women’s champion Ellie Garrett competed alongside her husband, Tom Garrett, who finished eighth overall. The couple, veterans of more than 30 half and 10 full-distance IRONMAN races, praised Goa’s course and community for its warmth and enthusiasm. Ellie described the race as “the hardest 70.3 I’ve ever done, but also the most stunning,” while Tom said, “The people, the place, the food, the weather — everything’s exceeded our expectations.”

Adding to the weekend’s excitement, Olympian swimmer-turned-coach Sandeep Sejwal and his colleagues from the Inspire Institute of Sport participated in the relay event, while political leaders Tejasvi Surya and K. Annamalai completed the triathlon, joining the ranks of Indian IRONMAN finishers.

The spirit of sportsmanship extended beyond the main event, with over 900 children participating in the Policybazaar IRONKIDS race, representing the promise of India’s next generation of athletes.

With participants from 62 countries across five editions, IRONMAN 70.3 Goa continues to strengthen Goa’s global identity as a hub for wellness, endurance, and world-class sporting excellence.

Events in Goa

Dr. Pramod Sawant Flags Off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 — A Global Celebration of Endurance and Unity

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant officially flagged off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025, marking the beginning of India’s biggest international triathlon and a proud moment for the state of Goa. The event, now in its fifth edition, has become a symbol of endurance, camaraderie, and the spirit of global sportsmanship. This year, more than 1,300 athletes from 31 countries gathered on the scenic shores of Goa to take part in the demanding challenge that combines swimming, cycling, and running in one of the most picturesque sporting backdrops in the world.

In his address, Dr. Sawant extended a warm welcome on behalf of the people of Goa to all participants, officials, and guests who had traveled from across India and abroad. He highlighted Goa’s growing reputation as not only a leisure destination but also a center for wellness, sport, and active living. He commended the dedication and professionalism of the organisers, Yoska and the IRONMAN India team, whose tireless efforts have helped transform the event into a globally recognized sporting festival.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by several prominent figures including Shri Tejasvi Surya, Shri Annamalai, Ms. Saiyami Kher, and Shri Deepak Raj, who joined in encouraging the athletes as they embarked on the grueling challenge. Dr. Sawant expressed his admiration for every participant’s commitment and resilience, wishing them strength, focus, and determination throughout their journey.

As IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 unfolds, it stands as a testament to the power of human endurance and the unifying force of sport, showcasing Goa’s evolution into a thriving destination that celebrates fitness, adventure, and the indomitable human spirit.

Events in Goa

No IFFI Inaugural at Shyama Prasad Stadium This Year; Parade to Open the 56th Edition

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will open with a new approach this year. Instead of the customary inaugural ceremony at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, the festival will begin with a vibrant IFFI Parade that will celebrate Goa’s culture and cinematic spirit. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant will flag off the parade, which will feature colourful floats inspired by Goa’s carnival and Shigmo traditions.

Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) Chairperson Delilah Lobo confirmed that the change was necessary as the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium is booked for the FIDE World Cup during the same period. However, the festival’s official dates remain unchanged, ensuring that IFFI’s schedule continues as planned.

The IFFI Parade will serve as the festival’s new inaugural event, offering a public celebration that merges film, art, and Goan culture. Designed as a street-level spectacle, it will invite participation from locals and visitors alike, capturing the festive atmosphere that defines Goa.

Organised by the ESG in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, IFFI remains India’s most prominent international film festival, bringing together filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. The decision to replace the stadium opening with a parade reflects an inclusive vision — one that extends the festival’s reach beyond formal venues and into the community.

As Goa prepares to welcome delegates and film lovers for IFFI 56, the parade promises to set a celebratory tone for the festival, transforming its opening into a showcase of both local culture and global cinema.

Events in Goa

Cinema from Northeast India Shines at IFFI 2025 with Powerful Lineup from Assam, Manipur, and Sikkim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo, Team Allycaral

Cinema from Northeast India is set to make a strong impression at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa, with a remarkable lineup of films from Assam, Manipur, and Sikkim featured in the Indian Panorama section. The festival, scheduled from November 20 to 28, 2025, continues to serve as a vibrant showcase of Indian creativity, cultural diversity, and cinematic excellence.

The Indian Panorama, a flagship component of IFFI since 1978, is devoted to promoting Indian films that represent the best of the country’s creative spirit and cultural heritage. This year’s selection highlights the Northeast’s cinematic growth and the region’s distinctive storytelling tradition that blends realism, identity, and emotion.

In the Feature Film category, Assam and Manipur have made a powerful mark. Bhaimon Da (Assamese), directed by Sasanka Samir and produced by Zeal Creations, tells the inspiring story of celebrated Assamese filmmaker Munin Barua, exploring his life and the challenges faced by Assamese cinema across decades. The film is both a tribute and a chronicle of artistic perseverance.

From Manipur, Naorem Dinesh Singh’s Oitharei continues the state’s legacy of socially conscious cinema. The film tells the story of a widow displaced by the ethnic unrest in Manipur since 2023, offering a poignant portrayal of grief, survival, and the quest for peace. Produced under Oitharei, it reflects the emotional depth that has long defined Manipuri filmmaking, echoing the work of masters like Aribam Syam Sharma.

Adding to Assam’s prominence is Sikaar, directed by Debangkar Borgohain and produced by Mitra Bhattacharya, which has been selected for the Mainstream Cinema section. Starring Zubeen Garg, Urmila Mahanta, and Adil Hussain, the film is being hailed for its high production values, compelling narrative, and status as the most expensive Assamese film ever made. Sikaar symbolizes a new era of ambition for Assamese cinema, blending regional storytelling with national appeal.

The region’s strength also extends to the Non-Feature Film category. Assam’s Patralekha, directed by Namrata Datta, explores themes of identity and communication through a poetic lens. From Manipur, Battlefield by Borun Thokchom captures the stark realities of life in a conflict-torn state with documentary precision and emotional power.

From Sikkim, Samten Bhutia’s Shangrila, produced by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), provides a rare window into Sikkimese culture and creativity. The Sikkimese-language documentary expands the cinematic map of the Northeast, celebrating the region’s evolving artistic identity and contribution to Indian cinema.

On November 27, IFFI will host a special discussion titled “New North East Cinema and Film Schools.” The session will examine the emergence of a new generation of filmmakers from Indian film schools, particularly from the Northeast, and how these institutions nurture unique voices that bring fresh perspectives to national cinema. The dialogue will explore how these directors are reshaping Indian storytelling through authenticity, experimentation, and regional identity.

The inclusion of films from Assam, Manipur, and Sikkim at IFFI 2025 reflects the growing prominence of the Northeast as a cinematic powerhouse. With stories rooted in culture, resilience, and human emotion, the region continues to redefine the contours of Indian filmmaking — asserting that powerful narratives often emerge from the country’s most diverse corners.