Tag: allycaral

Health

Goa’s Women & Child Development Department Wins SKOCH Gold Award 2025 for Childhood Nutrition

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Women and Child Development, Goa, has earned the SKOCH Gold Award 2025 for its outstanding contribution to “Improving Childhood Nutrition through Anganwadi Services.”

The announcement was made on Wednesday, with Minister Vishwajit Rane calling it a proud moment for Goa. He emphasized that the recognition reflects the state’s dedication to ensuring that every child receives the right start in life through better nutrition and care.

“This recognition is a testament to our unwavering efforts in ensuring that every child receives the right start in life through better nutrition and care,” Rane shared on X.

The award acknowledges the department’s alignment with the national mission of nurturing a healthier and empowered generation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rane credited the achievement to Director Jyoti Desai, the Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and the Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), whose tireless work has been instrumental in making the program successful.

He added that the award further strengthens Goa’s resolve to build robust systems that promote child well-being, gender equality, and inclusive development in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

The recognition places Goa among leading states that are innovating and strengthening grassroots programs in child nutrition and care through Anganwadi services, showcasing a model for other regions to follow.

International

Trump and Epstein Sculpture at National Mall Sparks Controversy

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Washington, D.C. — A provocative new artwork at the National Mall has sparked nationwide debate by highlighting the controversial relationship between former U.S. President Donald Trump and financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The sculpture, part of the Secret Handshake Project, depicts the two men in a symbolic handshake — a gesture meant to evoke questions about power, secrecy, and accountability. Installed earlier this week, the piece has attracted large crowds, split between those praising the bold commentary and others condemning it as distasteful.

“The goal of public art is to challenge perceptions and spark conversation,” said a spokesperson for the project. “This work isn’t about glorification — it’s about asking tough questions society still struggles to confront.”

The installation coincides with renewed media revelations about Epstein’s network and Trump’s past associations with him. Critics argue that the artwork risks sensationalizing sensitive issues, while supporters say it forces the public to confront uncomfortable truths.

Goa’s art and politics watchers have also noted the global trend of artists engaging in socially charged narratives.

The sculpture will remain on display at the National Mall until Sunday.

📖 Stay tuned to Allycaral for updates on art, politics, and culture.

Business

Goa Leads Nationwide GST Reform with Two-Slab Structure Backed by PM Modi & CM Pramod Sawant

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The Government of Goa has taken center stage in implementing nationwide GST reforms, with the new two-slab GST structure (5% and 18%) going into effect on September 22, 2025.

The reforms, supported by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mark a significant milestone in India’s journey toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.

Key Highlights of the Reform

  • Two-slab structure: Goods & services now taxed at either 5% or 18%.
  • Consumer benefit: Surprise inspections to ensure reduced rates reach buyers.
  • Support for MSMEs: Simplified compliance and reduced tax burden.
  • Boost to local manufacturing & exports: Designed to promote Swadeshi and global competitiveness.

Addressing the nation on the eve of Navratri, PM Modi said the reforms will accelerate India’s growth story:

“Swadeshi will render strength to the country’s prosperity in a similar way it powered India’s freedom movement.”

CM Pramod Sawant, a member of the GST Council, called it the beginning of a GST Bachat Utsav:

“Goa is fully committed to modernising infrastructure, simplifying processes and empowering our entrepreneurs so that Swadeshi products shine proudly in India and across the globe.”

The Bigger Picture

The reform is part of India’s broader policy framework that includes GST simplification, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. Together, these initiatives are powering India’s journey from Make in India to Make for the World.

With Goa at the forefront, the reforms are expected to set an example for other states, reinforcing India’s position as a rising global economic powerhouse.

Sports

CM Pramod Sawant Assures Full Support to Newly-Elected Goa Cricket Association Committee

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The newly-elected Goa Cricket Association (GCA) managing committee, led by former Ranji Trophy cricketer Mahesh Dessai, received a strong assurance of support from Goa’s Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant.

In a courtesy meeting at his official residence on Monday, Sawant congratulated the new office bearers and said:

“As far as Goan cricket is concerned, I backed the committee earlier and will continue to support the new group.”

The elections saw a 6-0 clean sweep for the panel led by former presidents Chetan Dessai, Vinod Phadke, Vipul Phadke, and Suraj Lotlikar. Mahesh Dessai defeated rival candidate Mahesh Candolkar to take over as president.

Outgoing president Vipul Phadke highlighted the CM’s assurance, stating:

“The state government and all departments will support us.”

Chetan Dessai also added that the meeting with the CM reflected unity within the committee, with Sawant being “very supportive.”

Later in the day, Mahesh Dessai and his team formally assumed charge of GCA affairs at the association’s Porvorim headquarters.

The elections took place amid political and sporting dynamics, as the rival panel ‘Parivartan’, backed by BCCI joint secretary and BJP functionary Rohan Gauns Dessai, was defeated despite enjoying state government support previously.

With this new leadership in place and government backing reaffirmed, cricket in Goa looks set for a phase of renewed energy and growth.

Sports

KL Rahul Becomes Co-Owner of Goa Guardians Ahead of Prime Volleyball League Season 4

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Indian cricketer KL Rahul has stepped into the world of volleyball as the co-owner of the Goa Guardians franchise, marking a significant development ahead of the Prime Volleyball League (PVL) Season 4, scheduled from October 2–26 in Hyderabad.

Speaking about his new role, Rahul expressed his passion for the sport:

“This feels like a full circle moment for me. PVL is a turning point for the sport in India. The bigger picture is to give volleyball the spotlight and screen time so that more people can watch it and love this sport. Volleyball has always been a sport I enjoyed, and I am excited to lend my voice and play my part in growing the sport in our country.”

The Goa Guardians, who will make their PVL debut this season, are backed by Raju Chekuri, principal owner and founder of Netenrich. Chekuri welcomed Rahul on board, stating:

“We are delighted to have KL Rahul join our ownership group. His passion for volleyball and belief in its potential will help us build a franchise that inspires fans and empowers athletes.”

The Prime Volleyball League, known for its fast-paced, television-first format, has become a vibrant platform for athletes and fans, bringing volleyball into the mainstream sporting conversation in India.

With KL Rahul’s entry into the PVL ecosystem, expectations are high for the Goa Guardians to make a strong impact both on and off the court, inspiring fans and giving volleyball the visibility it deserves.