Tag: Bicholim

Social

Goa Moves Toward Zero Waste with Godrej Consumer Products’ Innovative Programme

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Goa, February 19, 2026: Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant tourism, Goa faces a unique sustainability challenge, particularly in its rural and semi-urban areas. Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL) is addressing this gap with its Integrated Waste Management Programme in the Talukas of Bicholim and Sattari, implementing long-term, community-driven waste solutions.


Partnering with Sampurn(e)arth Environment Solutions, the Mineral Foundation of Goa, municipal councils, and village panchayats, GCPL’s initiative has diverted more than 5,800 metric tonnes of waste from landfills and recycled over 490 metric tonnes of low-value plastics, including commonly discarded milk packets.

Historically, waste collection in these regions was inconsistent, with limited source segregation and informal workers operating without adequate safety or social security. GCPL’s program introduced a complete system—from door-to-door collection to material recovery at the Bicholim MRF, secondary sorting at Harvalem, and recycling at Pissurlem—ensuring accountability at every stage.

Technology plays a key role, with QR-code–based monitoring enabling local authorities to track collection coverage and segregation in real time. Community engagement, through household visits, school programs, cultural outreach, and exposure visits, has helped make waste segregation a daily habit.

A strong focus on waste worker welfare is another highlight. Over 1,300 workers are provided personal protective equipment, enrolled in social security schemes, trained in safe handling, and organised into Self-Help Groups, promoting dignity, financial inclusion, and long-term livelihood security.

The Milk Packet Collection Initiative engaged students as sustainability ambassadors, collecting nearly 140 kg of used milk packets between March 2024 and July 2025, demonstrating the impact of everyday actions on environmental change.

Pakzan Dastoor, Head – Sustainability & CSR, Godrej Industries Group, said, “With over 5,800 tonnes of solid waste diverted from landfills, our Goa initiatives reflect that sustainable change happens when infrastructure, citizen participation, and worker welfare come together.”

Omkar Manjrekar, Block Development Officer, Bicholim Taluka, added, “QR Code–based waste management brings smart accountability to every doorstep, strengthening monitoring and improving overall collection efficiency.”

By integrating infrastructure, behaviour change, and social inclusion, GCPL’s initiatives in Goa set a benchmark for corporate-driven sustainability, demonstrating how companies can foster environmental stewardship, accountability, and community-led transformation.

Godrej Consumer Products is a leading emerging markets company committed to health, beauty, and sustainability. As part of the Godrej Industries Group, it operates in over 1.4 billion households globally, leading in household insecticides, hair care, soaps, air fresheners, and wet tissues. Through its Good & Green and DEI initiatives, GCPL works toward creating a more inclusive and environmentally responsible future.

Social

Vedanta Sesa Goa Empowers Maem with New Tailoring and Computer Training Centres

Tanisha Cardozo

Vedanta Sesa Goa–Iron Ore Goa (IOG), under the aegis of the Vedanta Foundation, inaugurated the Vedanta Tailoring Training Centre and the relocated Vedanta Computer Centre at Village Panchayat Maem. These facilities aim to empower local women and youth through National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) certified training programs in tailoring and computer applications, thereby enhancing employability and self-reliance.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Premendra Shet, Hon’ble MLA of Maem Constituency, along with Shri Vasudev Gaonkar, Sarpanch, Village Panchayat Maem, other panchayat members, and community representatives. From Vedanta, Mr. Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO, IOG, and Mr. Santosh Mandrekar, Head–North & Central Cluster, IOG, were present.

The event also featured a certificate distribution ceremony for students who completed the three-month NSDC-certified Diploma in Computer Application program from the Vedanta Computer Centre.

The newly launched Vedanta Tailoring Training Centre will focus on skill development for women, offering a three-month structured course combining theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. This initiative seeks to enable women to take up entrepreneurial ventures and achieve financial independence.

The Vedanta Computer Centre, relocated from Haldanwadi to the Village Panchayat Maem premises, continues to offer both basic and advanced digital literacy programs. These training modules are designed to improve local youth’s computer proficiency and employability in an increasingly digital world.

Speaking at the event, Shri Premendra Shet, Hon’ble MLA of Maem Constituency, commended Vedanta’s efforts, saying, “I appreciate Vedanta Sesa Goa for its consistent efforts towards community welfare and capacity building. Establishing these centres is a progressive step aimed at empowering individuals through essential digital skills. It is evident that Vedanta feels a deep sense of responsibility for the progress and prosperity of this region, and initiatives like these demonstrate the company’s genuine commitment to inclusive growth.”

Mr. Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO of Vedanta IOG, emphasized the company’s social commitment, stating, “At Vedanta Sesa Goa, we strongly believe that true growth lies in the progress of the communities. Our skilling and empowerment initiatives are designed to ‘give back’ to society and create sustainable opportunities. The launch of the Tailoring and Computer Centres at Maem reinforces our commitment to building a self-reliant, skilled, and confident community.”

So far, more than 1,200 students have benefited from Vedanta’s computer centres in Bicholim. Through sustained initiatives in education, skill development, and empowerment, Vedanta Sesa Goa continues to drive meaningful transformation and contribute to the state’s long-term sustainable development.

EduConnect

Lecture Series V-2.0 in Memory of Late Shri Harish Narayan Prabhu Zantye & Late Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye

Tanisha Cardozo

The Zantye Brothers Educational Foundation, through Narayan Zantye College of Commerce, Bicholim-Goa, proudly hosted Lecture Series V-2.0 — a solemn and inspiring tribute to two iconic personalities who shaped the educational and political landscape of Goa: Late Shri Harish Narayan Prabhu Zantye and Late Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye.

Late Shri Harish Zantye, fondly known as “Anna,” was a towering figure in Goa’s political history — a former Member of Parliament, a respected minister, and a beloved MLA of the Dicholi constituency. His work in education, healthcare, the cooperative movement, and social services remains exemplary. His memory, leadership, and humble approach to governance continue to influence countless lives.

Smt. Usha Umesh Prabhu Zantye’s contributions to family, society, and community upliftment are equally revered. Her quiet strength and support formed the backbone of the Zantye family’s philanthropic journey.

The event was graced by Shri Pravin Zantye as the President of the Function, along with Guests of Honour — Shri Rohit Zantye, Siddharth Zantye, Pranav Zantye, Abbas Shaikh, and Rishtey Shaikh. The presence of these dignitaries served as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Zantye family’s commitment to social service and education.

A warm homage was paid by those who knew and respected Harish Anna deeply — friends, family, students, and fellow leaders — all united in remembrance and reaffirmation of continuing the noble work he began.

“Sweet memories of Anna…” the message echoed throughout the hall, touching every heart present. It wasn’t just a remembrance — it was a promise. A promise to continue walking the path of values, vision, and selfless service that Anna walked so passionately.

Through Lecture Series V-2.0, the college and its well-wishers not only honour a legacy but commit to future generations that the torch will remain lit. Forever.

Human Interest

Rotaract Club of Bicholim Launches 5th Edition of Aarati Book with Artist Suraj Pinge

Tanisha Cardozo

Rotaract Club of Bicholim recently celebrated a cultural milestone with the launch of the 5th edition of their Aarati Book. The inauguration was graced by renowned Goan artist Mr. Suraj Pinge, who unveiled the book in a small but meaningful ceremony.

The Aarati Book, a project close to the heart of the club, aims to preserve and share devotional songs that are an integral part of Goan traditions. Over the years, the book has become a valuable resource for communities during religious and cultural events.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Suraj Pinge praised the efforts of the young Rotaractors for combining youth leadership with cultural preservation. He highlighted the importance of initiatives like these in strengthening social values and nurturing the next generation of leaders.

The Rotaract Club of Bicholim continues to remain active in promoting service, cultural awareness, and youth engagement, staying true to the global motto of “Fellowship through Service.”

EduConnect

St. John of the Cross High School Celebrates 60 Glorious Years with Inter-School “Ghumat Arti” Competition

Tanisha Cardozo

Sanquelim, Goa – A milestone worth celebrating, St. John of the Cross High School marked its 60th anniversary — six decades of unwavering commitment to education, values, and cultural preservation. To commemorate this historic occasion, the school hosted an Inter-School Ghumat Arti Competition, inviting participation from schools across Bicholim and Sattari Taluka.

The Ghumat Arti, a treasured form of Goan devotional music performed using the traditional clay percussion instrument Ghumat, brought a soulful vibrance to the celebration. The competition served as a dynamic platform for students to not only showcase their talent but also immerse themselves in Goan cultural heritage.

The inter-school format of the event fostered collaboration, camaraderie, and healthy competition among students. Schools from Bicholim and Sattari came together under one roof, promoting the spirit of togetherness, artistic expression, and cultural appreciation.

Why It Mattered:

  • Cultural Preservation: The event beautifully upheld Goan tradition through music and devotion.
  • Youth Empowerment: Students stepped out of their comfort zones, built confidence, and expressed themselves through performance.
  • Community Building: Schools and students connected across regions, forging lasting bonds beyond the classroom.

The school community — teachers, students, alumni, and parents — came together in joyous celebration, reflecting on decades of dedication, achievement, and impact.

“Sixty years of dedication, countless memories, and an enduring legacy. Congratulations to the entire school community!”

With events like these, St. John of the Cross High School continues to empower young minds through a holistic blend of academics, culture, and values — staying true to its mission as an institution of excellence.