Tag: Community Development

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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.

Social

JCI Ponda Unveils Second Edition of START Magazine in the Presence of Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant

Tanisha Cardozo

It was a proud moment for JCI Ponda as the organization inaugurated the second edition of its flagship magazine START – Stories That Amplify Real Transformation on 2nd November 2025. The event took place in the presence of Hon. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who unveiled the new edition, commending the efforts of JCI Ponda for its continued contribution to community development and leadership building in Goa.

The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests including JFD Shaba Gauns (Zone President), JFD Chetan Salelkar (Zone Director – Business), JFM Vadiraj Inamdar (LO President), JFM Muskan Naik (Secretary), JC Akash Mangueshkar (Immediate Past President), JC HGF Janhavi Naik (Past President), and JC HGF Amey Tilve (Member), all of whom contributed to making the occasion memorable.

The START magazine, known for showcasing stories of leadership, innovation, and transformation, encapsulates the impactful initiatives undertaken by JCI Ponda throughout 2025. From community-driven projects to youth leadership programs, the publication serves as a reflection of the organization’s mission to inspire positive change.

Speaking on the occasion, members expressed gratitude to JFD Chetan Salelkar for his valuable guidance and contribution in making this edition and launch event a grand success.

The ceremony was marked by a spirit of pride and unity, highlighting JCI Ponda’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young leaders and fostering meaningful change within the community.

With its second edition of START, JCI Ponda continues to amplify stories that drive transformation — reaffirming its position as a beacon of leadership, service, and progress in Goa.

Social

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates Sesa Goa-Sponsored Artificial Turf Ground at Amona

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant step towards youth empowerment and grassroots sports development, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, inaugurated a state-of-the-art artificial turf ground in Amona. The ground has been constructed by Vedanta Sesa Goa – Value Added Business, under its flagship YouTheChange, YouThePower initiative, with a project cost exceeding ₹1 crore.

Equipped with floodlights and a fenced playing arena, the facility promises to become a vibrant hub for community engagement, sports competitions, and youth development. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of Mr. Saptesh Sardesai, CEO of Vedanta VAB, Shri Gopal Surlakar, Zilla Panchayat Member (Pale), Shri Sagar Kamlakant Fadte, Sarpanch, V.P Amona, panchayat members, community leaders, and enthusiastic locals. The event culminated in a friendly football match where CM Dr. Pramod Sawant himself took to the field, encouraging youth to utilise the facility.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Pramod Sawant lauded Vedanta’s commitment to community welfare. “The long-standing wish of Amona’s youth has now been fulfilled. I appreciate Vedanta’s consistent efforts in infrastructure and skill development. This facility will play a vital role in promoting fitness and sports culture in the region,” he said.

Mr. Saptesh Sardesai emphasized the importance of physical fitness and leadership among the youth. “This turf ground is more than just infrastructure. It’s an investment in the future of our youth — promoting teamwork, health, and active lifestyles.”

This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Fit India Movement and showcases Vedanta’s philosophy of #TransformingCommunities through impactful CSR projects that bring long-term value and progress to local communities.

Social

MoS Shri Shripad Naik Inaugurates IREDA’s 45 kW Solar Project Powering Goa’s Water Supply

Tanisha Cardozo

On 5th October 2025, Shri Shripad Naik, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, inaugurated a 45 kW On-Grid Solar Power System at a water pumping station in North Goa. The project has been implemented as part of IREDA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to promote sustainable and clean energy in public infrastructure.

The solar power system is expected to generate approximately 60,000 units of electricity annually, ensuring 100% solarization of the pumping station’s load. This initiative not only enhances energy efficiency but also sets a benchmark for renewable integration into essential public utilities like water distribution.

In a message, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director of IREDA, emphasized that the project reflects the organization’s dedication to extending its clean energy vision beyond financial support into direct community impact. He noted that solarizing public services such as water pumping stations can serve as a scalable and replicable model for India’s broader sustainable energy transition.

The inauguration event was attended by key representatives from IREDA’s CSR team, the Goa Drinking Water Department, and local authorities, underscoring a collaborative effort toward building a greener future for India. This development is yet another step in aligning with the country’s commitment to achieving its renewable energy goals and promoting energy equity across all sectors.

Human Interest

Porvorim Gets a Boost Towards Fitness with New Futsal Ground & Senior Citizens’ Recreational Hall

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim’s development journey took a meaningful leap with the inauguration of a vibrant new community space, comprising a modern Futsal Ground and a Recreational Hall for Senior Citizens.

The inauguration was led by Hon’ble Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, along with ZP Kavita G Naik, Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar, and Panch members of Penha De Franca, in the presence of proud and excited residents of the locality.

This initiative is part of the ongoing “Fit Porvorim” movement — aimed at building infrastructure that promotes health, social well-being, and community engagement.

The Futsal Ground will serve as a hub for local youth, fostering active lifestyles, sportsmanship, and positive community interaction. On the other hand, the Recreational Hall for Senior Citizens is designed to promote mental and physical wellness, offering a space for leisure, community programs, and activities tailored for senior needs.

“Creating inclusive spaces for all age groups strengthens our community’s roots. Porvorim is leading by example, and today’s launch is a testament to that,” said Minister Rohan Khaunte during the event.

Children took to the Futsal field with enthusiasm, while senior citizens explored a thoughtfully designed hall featuring amenities for wellness, reading, and group activities.

As Porvorim continues to evolve, initiatives like these ensure no one is left behind — whether it’s the energy of youth or the wisdom of age, every resident now has a place to belong, connect, and thrive.