Tag: Ajay Gaude

Sports

Ponda Sports Complex Renamed as Ravi Naik Sports Complex in Presence of CM Pramod Sawant

Tanisha Cardozo

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant attended the naming ceremony of the Ponda Sports Complex as the Ravi Naik Sports Complex at Ponda, marking a significant occasion for the region’s sporting infrastructure. The event was held in the presence of Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, Commissioner for NRI Affairs Adv. Narendra Sawaikar, Chairman of the Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir, Ponda, Ritesh Ravi Naik, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Dr. Ajay Gaude, and other dignitaries.

The renaming of the sports complex reflects recognition of contributions made toward the development of sports and community engagement in the region. The ceremony brought together government officials, sports administrators, and members of the local community, highlighting the importance of strengthening sports infrastructure in Goa.

The Ravi Naik Sports Complex serves as a key venue for sporting activities and youth engagement in Ponda. With continued investment in infrastructure and policy support from the state government, Goa aims to nurture talent and encourage greater participation in sports at grassroots and competitive levels.

The presence of senior officials at the ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to promoting sports as a vital component of youth development and community building. The renaming ceremony marks another step in enhancing facilities and recognizing individuals who have contributed to the growth of sports in the state.

Events in Goa

Goa Flags Off #TirangaRally Ahead of 79th Independence Day to Celebrate Unity and Patriotism

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, Goa | August 14, 2025: In a stirring tribute to India’s 79th Independence Day, the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Goa, organized a spirited #TirangaRally on August 14, bringing together the youth of Goa to celebrate the values of unity, patriotism, and national pride.

The rally was flagged off from the ferry point opposite Institute Menezes Braganza, Panaji, by Secretary (Sports), Shri. Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, in the presence of Dr. Ajay Gaude, Director of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, and Shri. Sumith Maheshwari, High Performance Director, Khelo India.

Hundreds of students from various institutions across Goa took part in the rally, waving the Tricolour and echoing the spirit of freedom as they marched through the streets of Panaji. The rally served as a powerful reminder of the role youth play in shaping the nation’s future — not just through education and innovation, but by carrying forward the values of inclusivity, unity, and democratic pride.

“This rally isn’t just a celebration — it’s a call to action for our youth to rise with responsibility and a sense of national purpose,” said Shri. Sukhadeve.

Organised as part of a series of state-led events leading to Independence Day 2025, the #TirangaRally also highlighted the synergy between local governance, national programs like Khelo India, and the active participation of the community.

The Directorate continues to foster such initiatives to deepen civic engagement and inspire the next generation of leaders through sports, culture, and nation-building activities.

🎉 Jai Hind!