Category: International

International

Goa Showcases Wellness Tourism Vision at 3rd International AYUSH Conference & Exhibition in Dubai

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

The State of Goa proudly participated in the 3rd edition of the International AYUSH Conference & Exhibition held at the World Trade Centre. The global event brought together leading stakeholders in Ayurveda and other traditional systems under AYUSH from across the world and will continue until February 17, 2026.


The conference, organised by Vijnana Bharati (Science India Forum–UAE), was held in association with the Ministry of AYUSH under the patronage of the Embassy of India and the Consulate General of India. The focal theme of this year’s conference is “Evidence-Based AYUSH Interventions in Mind-Body Health.”

Goa’s Strategic Wellness Push

Goa’s participation formed part of a strategic initiative aligned with the State’s strong push towards wellness tourism. With global interest in holistic health and preventive care rising steadily, Ayurveda has emerged as a key driver of sustainable tourism growth.

The Goa Pavilion, undertaken by the Department of Information and Publicity (DIP) and executed through its EMA M/s Sean AdEvent, stood out for its eco-friendly design and concept. The stall effectively showcased Goa’s wellness ecosystem, highlighting Ayurvedic therapies, wellness retreats, and integrative healthcare practices.

High-Level Inauguration

The exhibition was inaugurated by Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of AYUSH, in the presence of Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of AYUSH; Dr. Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the UAE; and Alawi Alsheikh Ali, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, among other dignitaries.

During his visit to the Goa stall, Dr. Alawi Alsheikh Ali appreciated the Government of Goa for effectively presenting its initiatives in the AYUSH and allied sectors.

Official Statement

Speaking on the occasion, Dipak Bandekar, Director, Department of Information and Publicity, said that Goa’s participation marked a significant step in positioning the State as a global wellness destination.

He stated that the platform enabled meaningful dialogue and collaboration with practitioners, policymakers, tourism operators, and investors from across the globe. He further noted that the positive response reflected growing international interest in authentic and sustainable wellness experiences.

Goa Delegation

The Goa delegation included Allwyn Xavier Pereira, Information Officer (DIP); Dr. Minal Joshi, Deputy Director AYUSH; Dr. Sameer Sadekar, Senior Ayurvedic Physician, North Goa District Hospital, Asilo Hospital, Mapusa; along with Dr. Diplai Shirwaikar and Dr. Shambhavi Gadgil, experienced stakeholders in Ayurvedic medicine with expertise in handling international clientele.

Strategic Objectives

Goa’s participation aimed to:

Promote Ayurveda as a pillar of wellness tourism

Create awareness about preventive and curative Ayurvedic therapies

Attract domestic and international wellness tourists

Encourage industry collaboration and investment

Showcase Goa’s evolving ecosystem blending traditional healing with modern hospitality

Strengthening Global Positioning
The exhibition provided Goa with exceptional global visibility and brand positioning. Direct engagement with wellness professionals, investors, and policymakers further strengthened the State’s image as a preferred destination for authentic Ayurvedic therapies and holistic wellness experiences.

Through its participation, Goa reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable, health-focused tourism and its vision of becoming a leading global hub for Ayurveda and wellness tourism.

International

Indonesia Bans Elephant Riding Nationwide in Landmark Animal Welfare Move

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

Indonesia has announced a nationwide ban on elephant riding, marking a significant step toward strengthening animal welfare standards and promoting responsible tourism practices.


The ban applies to zoos, safari parks, conservation centres and other tourist venues across the country. Under the new directive, elephants will no longer be used to carry visitors for entertainment purposes.

Authorities said the decision was taken to prevent stress, injury and long-term harm to elephants, concerns that have been raised by animal welfare experts for years.

The move follows sustained advocacy efforts by international and local organisations, including World Animal Protection, which has campaigned against elephant riding and highlighted issues such as harsh training methods and inadequate living conditions.

Under the revised policy framework, facilities are being encouraged to transition toward ethical, non-contact tourism models. Visitors will instead be able to observe elephants in more natural settings that prioritise their safety and well-being.

With this decision, Indonesia positions itself as a regional leader in ethical wildlife tourism in Southeast Asia, reflecting a broader global shift toward cruelty-free and responsible travel experiences.

International

Reports Spark Debate After Kim Jong Un’s Daughter Appears as Possible Future Leader

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Speculation surrounding leadership succession in North Korea has resurfaced after recent public appearances by Kim Jong Un alongside his young daughter during high-profile state events. While no official confirmation has been issued by North Korean authorities, international observers and analysts have begun debating whether the appearances signal a potential future role for her within the country’s political structure.

The reclusive nation rarely discloses details about internal succession planning, making any public appearances by members of the ruling family a subject of global attention. Experts note that North Korea has historically maintained a hereditary leadership model, passing power within the Kim family across generations.

Some analysts believe that showcasing a family member at military parades and state ceremonies could be a symbolic gesture aimed at reinforcing stability and continuity. Others caution that drawing definitive conclusions may be premature, as official statements confirming any leadership transition have not been released.

The discussion has sparked widespread reactions across global media, with political observers highlighting how imagery and symbolism often play a central role in North Korea’s political messaging. As geopolitical tensions continue to shape international discourse, the possibility of a future leadership shift remains a topic of intense scrutiny.

International

Heart-Shaped Northern Lights Go Viral Ahead of Valentine’s Day

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Ahead of Valentine’s Day, a mesmerising photograph of the Northern Lights forming a heart-like shape has captured the internet’s imagination. The viral image, taken in Norway by photographer Kristoffer Vangen, showcases the glowing green hues of the Aurora Borealis illuminating a crystal-clear night sky.

The rare natural formation quickly gained traction across social media platforms, with users describing it as a “cosmic love letter” just in time for the season of romance. According to Vangen, the shot was the result of patience and persistence. In an Instagram post, he revealed that he had long dreamed of capturing the Northern Lights in the shape of something meaningful.

Despite several attempts in the past, the perfect frame had eluded him — until one lucky Friday night when the aurora danced into a heart-like formation. The image highlights not only the unpredictable beauty of nature but also the dedication behind capturing fleeting moments in the wild.

The Aurora Borealis, known for its vibrant colours and shifting patterns, continues to inspire travellers, photographers, and skywatchers across the world. As Valentine’s Day approaches, the viral photo has become a reminder of how nature can create its own expressions of love — without filters or edits.

International

Viral Buzz: Katy Perry Seen Learning Rubik’s Cube With ‘Office of the Prime Minister’ Stationery Sparks Online Reactions

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A video making rounds on social media platforms has sparked widespread discussion after showing global pop icon Katy Perry attempting to learn how to solve a Rubik’s cube while using stationery bearing the words “Office of the Prime Minister.”

The clip has quickly gained traction online, with users debating whether the moment was part of a casual behind-the-scenes setting, a promotional activity, or simply a humorous interaction captured on camera. While the visuals have fuelled speculation and memes, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the context or any political association linked to the scene.

The Rubik’s cube, often associated with problem-solving and creativity, has frequently appeared in celebrity videos as a light-hearted challenge. In this case, the presence of official-looking stationery has added an unexpected twist, prompting online conversations about symbolism, public image, and viral storytelling.

As with many trending moments, audiences are encouraged to view such clips with context and caution, recognising that viral content often spreads faster than verified details. Regardless, the clip highlights how even simple activities — like learning a puzzle — can quickly capture global attention when celebrities are involved.