Human Interest

Goa’s First Water Metro Project to Connect Vasco with Dona Paula


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Goa is set to embark on a landmark transport initiative with the launch of its first water metro project, designed to connect Vasco in Mormugao with Dona Paula in Tiswadi.

The announcement was made by Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Drinking Water and Social Welfare, at a programme in Vasco. The minister highlighted that the project is being evaluated in collaboration with the Centre, with feasibility studies and operational plans currently underway.

“The water metro project will help ease road traffic and also strengthen tourism in Goa,” Phal Dessai stated.

Once implemented, the water metro is expected to:

  • Provide a faster and sustainable commuting option for residents and tourists.
  • Significantly reduce road congestion, especially on busy stretches connecting Vasco and Dona Paula.
  • Offer a new tourist experience, enhancing Goa’s reputation as a world-class travel destination.

Authorities are confident that the project will not only improve connectivity but also serve as a green alternative to traditional transport, aligning with global trends in sustainable mobility.

With the evaluation process in progress, the people of Goa can look forward to an innovative mode of transport that will redefine travel within the state.

Human Interest

RailNeer Price Reduced to ₹14/Litre as New GST Rules Come into Effect


Travelers across India received a small but welcome relief today as the Indian Railways announced that RailNeer packaged drinking water bottles will now cost ₹14 per litre instead of ₹15 at all railway stations. The reduction comes into force with the implementation of new GST rules, effective from today, which have revised tax slabs for a range of essential and consumer products.


RailNeer, a trusted packaged water brand sold at railway stations, is a daily necessity for millions of passengers. The ₹1 price cut may seem small, but given the sheer volume of sales and affordability concerns, this move is being welcomed by travelers across the country.


The revised GST framework is not just impacting RailNeer but also several other product categories. The government’s aim is to rationalize prices, improve tax compliance, and make essential commodities more affordable for the common man.


The new RailNeer price is applicable at all railway stations across India starting today. Authorities have confirmed that vendors at stations have been directed to update their pricing immediately to reflect the change.


Experts say such small reductions create a significant positive perception among passengers, especially those who rely heavily on affordable essentials while traveling. It also reflects the government’s focus on consumer-friendly pricing in line with larger economic reforms.


With the new GST rules in place, passengers will notice changes not only in RailNeer but also in several day-to-day products. For Indian Railways, this is another step in ensuring passenger comfort, affordability, and transparency.

Sports

Goa’s Lloyd Fernandes Selected for ITTF Asian Para Championship After Double Gold Victory


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

For many, an accident might seem like the end of life. But for some, it becomes the beginning of a powerful new chapter. Lloyd Fernandes from Goa is one such person who turned tragedy into triumph. In 2016, Lloyd’s life changed forever after a devastating accident left him paralyzed. While most would struggle to cope, Lloyd found strength in an unexpected place—table tennis.

Determined not to let his condition define him, Lloyd picked up the sport after the accident. It started as a form of therapy and evolved into a full-fledged passion. With every swing of the paddle, he built confidence, strength, and purpose. He trained rigorously, competed fiercely, and steadily carved a name for himself in the world of Para Table Tennis.

His hard work paid off in March 2025 when he clinched two consecutive gold medals—first at the Para Table Tennis National Ranking Championship held from March 17–19, and then again at the Para Senior Table Tennis National Championship from March 21–23. Both prestigious events were hosted at the Sama Indoor Sports Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat.

Lloyd’s exceptional performance has now earned him a coveted spot in the ITTF Asian Para Championship, a major international tournament that gathers the best para-athletes from across the continent. His selection is not just a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for Goa and India.

Lloyd Fernandes’s journey from paralysis to the international stage is more than just a story of sports. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, determination, and passion can overcome any obstacle. As he prepares to represent India at the ITTF Asian Para Championship, he carries with him the hopes of many and the undeniable spirit of a true champion.

Social

JCI Panaji & Dempo College Host Faculty Training “In Pursuit of Excellence”


On 20th September 2025, JCI Panaji in association with Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College (Autonomous), Cujira Goa, conducted a Faculty Training Session on “In Pursuit of Excellence” and a JCI Orientation program.

The training was spearheaded by JC Dr. Jorson Fernandes, Past State President JCI Goa, who served as the pilot faculty, alongside Jc Sharmila Valavalkar, Zone Secretary JCI India Zone 11, as co-pilot faculty. The session was designed to empower faculty members with leadership values, innovative approaches to teaching, and a deeper connection to the JCI movement.

The event witnessed the active presence of:

  • JFM Sandeep Kerkar, President, JCI Panaji
  • Jc Gautam Kharangate, Zone Vice Chairman, JCI Alumni Club
  • Prof. Dr. Manoj Kamat, Principal, Dempo College
  • Prof. Sangeeta Chakraborti, Vice Principal, Dempo College
  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prisca Braganza, TLET Coordinator
  • JFM Saikrishna Mandrekar, Zone Director Training
  • Jc Srushti Lotlikar, Secretary, JCI Panaji

Together, the faculty, JCI leaders, and academic representatives emphasized excellence, leadership development, and community engagement.

This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening the academic–community ecosystem by fostering innovation, leadership, and problem-solving skills among faculty and students alike. It reflects JCI’s mission of creating positive change through training, orientation, and leadership-building initiatives.

TechPulse

TEDxPanaji 2025 to Spotlight 20 Groundbreaking Innovations at Kala Academy


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The stage is set for TEDxPanaji 2025, and this year’s event promises more than just thought-provoking talks. The Government of Goa and the Start-up Information Technology Promotion Cell (SITPC) are bringing innovation directly to the community through a one-of-a-kind Innovation Hub.

Open to the public on Saturday, 10 AM to 1 PM at Kala Academy, Panaji, the Innovation Hub will feature 20 cutting-edge technologies designed to solve real-world challenges across health, construction, and infrastructure.

Among the highlights are:

  • ESKAPE Kit: A rapid UTI diagnostic device delivering results in just six hours, aimed at fighting antimicrobial resistance.
  • No Dust: An integrated dust-capture system that eliminates construction debris at the source, improving workplace safety and environmental standards.
  • Argus Aviation: An AI-powered autonomous drone platform designed to accelerate and safeguard infrastructure inspections.

These innovations reflect Goa’s growing ecosystem of entrepreneurs, technologists, and problem-solvers. The Innovation Hub is not just a showcase but a celebration of Goan talent, offering students, professionals, and the public an opportunity to engage with future-ready ideas that can have national and global impact.

By shining a spotlight on local innovation, TEDxPanaji 2025 underscores the importance of nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship while inspiring the next generation of change-makers.

📖 For complete coverage and highlights, visit allycaral.com