Category: National

National

NITI Aayog & IAMAI Release Report on Transforming India’s Homestay Sector

Tanisha Cardozo

In a collaborative move to transform India’s tourism and hospitality landscape, NITI Aayog, in association with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), has released a forward-looking report titled “Rethinking Homestays: Navigating Policy Pathways.” The report was formally launched by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, in the presence of Shri Yugal Kishore Joshi, Programme Director at NITI Aayog, and senior representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, and tourism officials from Goa, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. From Goa, Shri Vikas Kamble, Deputy Resident Commissioner, Goa Sadan, participated in the event.

The report lays out a strategic roadmap to unlock the full potential of the homestay and BnB sector in India. Emphasizing their value as more than just accommodation, the report positions homestays as enablers of culturally immersive travel experiences, economic empowerment for local communities, and sustainable development across regions. It advocates for policy approaches that are enabling rather than restrictive—calling for transparent, light-touch regulations that ensure safety and accountability while preserving the charm and individuality of local homes and communities.

This approach aligns with broader goals of inclusive growth, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where homestays can generate employment, promote entrepreneurship, and create new revenue streams without large-scale infrastructure investments. The participation of key tourism states underscores a growing consensus that homestays are central to the next chapter of India’s tourism strategy—blending culture, community, and commerce.

By championing locally rooted experiences and fostering small-scale hospitality enterprises, the report envisions a future where India’s tourism is not just globally competitive but also deeply connected to its heritage and people.

National

Goa’s Aditya Samant Creates History with First-Ever Scooter Podium at Dakshin Dare 2025

allycaralgoa

Bengaluru, Aug 31, 2025

Goa’s motorsport scene witnessed a historic milestone as Aditya Samant from Kopardem, Sattari, became the first-ever scooter rider to secure a podium finish at the prestigious Dakshin Dare Rally 2025.

Held from 28–31 August in Bengaluru, Dakshin Dare is recognized as South India’s biggest cross-country rally, testing riders across extreme terrains with distances exceeding 2000 km.

A First for Scooters in Indian Motorsport

Competing on a race-tuned Aprilia scooter, Samant broke new ground in the motorsport fraternity by not just finishing the grueling rally but also standing on the podium in the newly introduced scooter class category.

His feat demonstrates not only his resilience and skill but also the growing popularity and acceptance of scooter-based racing in India.

Rally Highlights

  • Location: Bengaluru & surrounding terrains
  • Duration: August 28–31, 2025
  • Distance Covered: 2000+ km of off-road, rocky, and endurance testing tracks
  • Category: Scooter class (first-ever podium finish)

A Proud Moment for Goa & India

Samant’s achievement has put Goa firmly on the motorsport map. His success represents the passion, courage, and innovation of Indian riders venturing into diverse racing platforms.

As scooter racing gains traction globally, Samant’s podium finish at Dakshin Dare 2025 proves that determination can defy boundaries—whether on two wheels or four.

This victory will undoubtedly inspire a new wave of motorsport enthusiasts from Goa and across India.

National

Rajasthan Takes the First Stance to Implement Supreme Court Orders on Feeding Stray Dogs

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Rajasthan has become the first and only state in India to actively implement the Supreme Court’s orders on the feeding of stray dogs. This move comes after months of national-level debate around whether feeding strays in public spaces is a right or a nuisance. The Supreme Court eventually took up the matter with seriousness, emphasizing that a humane, regulated, and public-health-conscious approach must be taken.

Acting on this, Rajasthan has begun setting up designated ‘feeding spots’ across urban areas, specifically for stray dogs, often referred to as Indies. These spots will not only ensure that feeding is carried out in an orderly and hygienic manner but also serve as a location point for further care — such as vaccinations and sterilisation. This aligns with the court’s recommendation to both feed and control the population through responsible methods.

India’s stray dog population is a staggering one. As per varying data, the number ranges anywhere between 15 million to nearly 60 million. With such numbers, concerns over animal health, public sanitation, and human-animal conflict are understandable. However, Rajasthan’s initiative is an example of balancing empathy with action.

This thoughtful step reflects a friendlier attitude toward street animals while still addressing public safety concerns. It affirms the understanding that stray dogs, though ownerless, are still living beings deserving of structured care and kindness. The decision to introduce feeding zones makes Rajasthan the first mover in a nationwide conversation around animal rights, urban responsibility, and compassionate coexistence.

As India continues to urbanize, such policies may well become essential parts of modern civic planning. Rajasthan has shown that compassion and governance can go hand in hand — and perhaps other states will soon follow.

National

Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Arrives in India to a Grand Hero’s Welcome in Lucknow

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Indian Astronaut and test pilot Shubhanshu Shukla was welcomed in grandeur upon his return to India, following his successful space mission with the Axiom-4 crew. The streets of Lucknow came alive with celebrations as citizens gathered in large numbers to express their pride and admiration for the astronaut’s remarkable journey. The 39-year-old pilot, who represented India aboard the international space mission, received widespread love and praise, echoing through the heart of his hometown.

Shukla’s mission, launched on June 25, 2025, marked a historic moment for Indian spaceflight. Aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft named Grace, launched atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the Axiom-4 mission took off in collaboration with Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX. Alongside Shukla, the crew included Commander Peggy Whitson from the USA, and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznanski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. This mission represented the first government-sponsored human spaceflight in over four decades for India, Poland, and Hungary.

Spanning approximately 18 days, the mission concluded with the spacecraft’s undocking on July 14, 2025. During their time aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the crew conducted over 60 groundbreaking scientific studies, exploring areas such as crop growth in space, the behavior of cyanobacteria in microgravity, and the physiological changes experienced by the human body during extended space travel. These experiments were not only critical for future space exploration but also contributed to expanding our understanding of human adaptation to space environments.

The return of Shubhanshu Shukla is more than a celebration of individual achievement—it is a symbol of India’s growing presence in international space endeavors. With the success of the Axiom-4 mission, India takes a proud step forward in global scientific advancement, and Shukla stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists and explorers across the nation.

As the city of Lucknow echoed with cheers, banners, and patriotic pride, it was clear that Shukla’s return marked a historic chapter not only in India’s space journey but also in the hearts of millions who look up to the stars with dreams of discovery.

National

India Approves Bid to Host 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad

Tanisha Cardozo

India has officially entered the race to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad named as the proposed host city. On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the bid, describing Ahmedabad as the “ideal” venue due to its world-class sporting infrastructure, advanced training facilities, and deep-rooted sporting culture.

The decision follows the Indian Olympic Association’s nod earlier this month, after an ‘Expression of Interest’ was submitted in March. The bid will be formally submitted before the August 31 deadline, with the final decision to be made at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow this November. With Canada exiting the race due to financial constraints, India’s prospects appear brighter.

Ahmedabad boasts the Narendra Modi Stadium—the largest stadium in the world—which recently hosted the 2023 ICC World Cup Final. The under-construction Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave is also set to play a crucial role, offering an aquatics centre, a football stadium, and multi-sport indoor arenas. The Games are seen as a stepping stone toward India’s larger ambition of hosting the 2036 Olympics, with Ahmedabad again seen as a frontrunner.

Beyond showcasing India’s sporting excellence, the bid has been positioned as a catalyst for economic growth. Hosting the CWG is expected to boost tourism, generate local jobs, and promote sports as a viable career path. The government also anticipates large-scale employment opportunities across event management, media, broadcasting, logistics, and more.

India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010. If successful, the 2030 edition will not only include all major disciplines but also bring back medal-heavy sports like shooting and wrestling—disciplines removed from the upcoming 2026 Games in Glasgow. The Indian Olympic Association also aims to promote traditional sports such as kabaddi and kho kho, making the event a culturally rich and competitive showcase.

As the nation awaits the final decision, the bid stands as a testament to India’s rising influence in global sports and its readiness to deliver events on an international scale.