In connection with the recent disruption to ore transportation operations in the Sarmanas jetty area, Vedanta Sesa Goa reaffirms its longstanding commitment to responsible mining operations and constructive engagement with local communities.
Mining operations in the Bicholim region have been conducted for over four decades with land usage agreements in place with various entities, including local Devasthan committees and private landholders. Additionally, Vedanta Sesa Goa holds possession and valid rights over a significant portion of the operational land, which includes areas under tenancy. All supporting agreements and documentation remain in the company’s possession and have been maintained in accordance with applicable statutory requirements.
While these matters have historically been considered settled, Vedanta Sesa Goa has consistently responded to periodic representations from community members. In recent months, in spite of the settled settlements, fresh settlement terms have been initiated in consultation with the parties, under the facilitation of the Deputy Collector. As part of this process, approximately 50% of the affected farmers have formally consented to the agreed settlement terms recorded during these official meetings, with several already receiving settlement payments.
The current disruption has arisen from demands by a section of the affected parties seeking revised settlement terms. Vedanta Sesa Goa continues to actively engage with all concerned stakeholders to address these matters in a fair, transparent, and mutually agreeable manner.
Vedanta Sesa Goa reiterates that unplanned disruptions to transportation operations not only cause inconvenience to the local population but also results in avoidable losses to the state exchequer and adversely affects the livelihoods of mining dependents and allied businesses in the region.
The company urges all concerned parties to extend their cooperation and actively participate in the ongoing engagement processes to arrive at mutually acceptable solutions in the larger interest of the community and the state.
Vedanta Sesa Goa remains dedicated to operating as a responsible,environmentally conscious corporate citizen and contributing meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Goa through sustained, lawful, and community-driven practices.
Porvorim, 17th April 2025 – In a significant step towards enhancing community sports infrastructure and promoting a healthy lifestyle among residents, Khelangan, a comprehensive multi-utility sports and recreation facility, was inaugurated on 16th April 2025 in Porvorim by Hon’ble Minister for IT & Tourism and MLA of Porvorim, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte.
The event saw the esteemed presence of Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, senior officials from the Department of Tourism, Zilla Panchayat Member Kavita Gupesh Naik, Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar, Sarpanch Sonia Sanjay Pednekar, and Panch members from Socorro, Penha de Franca, and Salvador Do Mundo, along with a large gathering of enthusiastic residents.
Speaking at the occasion, Hon’ble Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte expressed his vision for creating a robust ecosystem that nurtures physical wellness, community bonding, and youth development through such grassroots-level initiatives. “Earlier, our children had to travel to Panjim or Mapusa for training and to access facilities. Today, right here in Porvorim, everything is available in one place—training grounds, a futsal ground, a laughter club, coaching facilities, and much more. These amenities are now fully accessible to the people of Porvorim. With the help and guidance of the Goa Cricket Association (GCA), especially Shri Suraj Lotlikar and the officials of the GCA, we are also bringing structured training programs for our youth. This will empower them with skills, opportunities, and a pathway to a brighter future. Futsal, which has become extremely popular among the youth, now has a dedicated ground right here. Alongside this, we have a badminton court and several other facilities to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.”
What was once available only in selected cities is now here for the people of Porvorim. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm of the public reflect the love for sports and community activities.
The commitment to ensuring that the best resources are made available with this inauguration proves that Porvorim is not just progressing—it is setting an example. Khelangan offers a variety of facilities including: A cricket training centre in collaboration with the Goa Cricket Association (GCA), A futsal court catering to the growing interest in the sport, A badminton court, A dedicated senior citizen sit-out area, Community activity zones such as a laughter club and coaching spaces
The project represents the shared commitment of local leadership and government bodies to bring world-class amenities closer to the people. It exemplifies the efforts of the Department of Tourism in supporting initiatives that go beyond tourism, actively contributing to the social and physical wellbeing of local communities.
Khelangan is envisioned as a dynamic hub where generations can come together, engage in physical activity, learn new skills, and strengthen the spirit of community living—making Porvorim a beacon of progress and inclusivity.
In a heartwarming initiative, the Library of St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, has opened its doors exclusively for senior citizens every Saturday. This thoughtful gesture aims to promote lifelong learning, intellectual stimulation, and social interaction among the elderly members of the community.
Starting from March 2025, the library will be accessible to senior citizens every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During this time, they can delve into the library’s vast collection, which includes:
Newspapers and periodicals
Books and bound volumes
A wide range of subjects and topics
Fostering a Sense of Community
This initiative is designed to encourage senior citizens to engage with the community, meet new people, and share their experiences. The library’s peaceful atmosphere provides the perfect setting for intellectual pursuits and social interactions.
How to Avail This Opportunity
Interested senior citizens can visit the library every Saturday during the specified hours. For more information, they can:
Contact the library at 0832-226-2356
Email the librarian at librarian@xavierscollegegoa.ac.in
A Step Towards Empowering Senior Citizens
By providing exclusive access to its facilities, St. Xavier’s College Library is taking a significant step towards empowering senior citizens. This initiative is a testament to the college’s commitment to promoting lifelong learning and community engagement.
We invite all senior citizens to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity and make the most of the library’s resources.
12th December 2025, Bicholim, To commemorate National Youth Day, Vedanta Sesa Goa has partnered with the Lions Club of Bicholim to conduct the 8th Edition of the ‘Republic Run’ at Bicholim. This highly anticipated event aims to promote awareness about fitness, a love for the outdoors, and the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. The ‘Republic Run,’ instituted in 2016-17, has grown from a participation of around 200 avid runners to an expected turnout of 800 enthusiasts this year. The current edition is scheduled to take place on 12th January 2025, starting at 5:45 a.m., coinciding with National Youth Day and celebrating its theme, “Youth Empowerment for Nation Building.”
The ‘Republic Run 2025’ is being organized in three different categories: 2 km (for children aged 8-13 years), 3.5 km (open category for all above 13 years), and 10 km (open for all above 13 years). All participants will be provided with T-shirts, certificates, and medals. The event is being coordinated by the Lions Club of Bicholim President, Lion Rajesh Karapurkar, and Mr. Azad Kadkade.
“Vedanta Sesa Goa is honored to be associated with the Lions Club of Bicholim for the 8th edition of the ‘Republic Run,’ promoting wellness and community engagement. We are committed to the well-being of the communities and are privileged to partner with the communities of Bicholim Taluka. The tremendous response received for the previous edition, as well as for our several other initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, encourages us to power this incredible event. We are committed to ‘giving back’ meaningfully to society and actively supporting initiatives that bring communities together and contribute to fostering a healthier lifestyle,” said Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO, Vedanta Sesa Goa Iron Ore Goa.
Mr. Azad Kadkade said, “The ‘Republic Run’ is aimed at inculcating a healthy lifestyle and promoting fitness among all. It is also a means to engage the people of Goa in a meaningful manner. We are proud to be hosting the 8th edition and are thankful to Vedanta Sesa Goa for its exceptional commitment to community wellness through their support for the event.”
As a dedicated advocate for community health and fitness and being firmly rooted in causes of national context, Vedanta promotes sports through its flagship initiative, Sesa Football Academy, and the Vedanta Women’s League. Vedanta Sesa Goa, which has previously partnered with the Lions Club of Bicholim, aims to foster a culture of wellness and fitness while underscoring its commitment to the youth and the overall well-being of the community.
The company has been regularly supporting the youth by partnering with the Goa Football Association and supporting the Vedanta Women’s League, the Vedanta Youth Cup, and local youth clubs in conducting events such as the Navelim Cricket League, the Corporate Cricket League, and the Amrawati Football League. Focused on cultural development, the Vedanta Sangeet Samrat Sitara has promoted young talent in the field of classical music. Additionally, its endeavors such as the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, which carried the theme #RunForZeroHunger, have catered to approximately 1 million meals over the last three years. Through initiatives like this, Vedanta continues its dedication to enriching the communities it serves, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and well-being among individuals.
About Vedanta Limited
Vedanta Limited, a subsidiary of Vedanta Resources Limited, is one of the world’s leading Oil & Gas and Metals company with significant operations in Oil & Gas, Zinc, Lead, Silver, Copper, Iron Ore, Steel, and Aluminium & Power across India, South Africa and Namibia. For two decades, Vedanta has been contributing significantly to nation building. Governance and sustainable development are at the core of Vedanta’s strategy, with a strong focus on health, safety, and the environment. Vedanta has put in place a comprehensive framework to be the ESG leader in the natural resources sector. Vedanta is committed to reducing carbon emissions to zero by 2050 or sooner and has pledged $5 billion over the next 10 years to accelerate the transition to net zero operations. Giving back is in the DNA of Vedanta, which is focused on enhancing the lives of local communities. The company’s flagship social impact program, Nand Ghars, have been set up as model Anganwadis focused on eradicating child malnutrition, providing education, healthcare, and empowering women with skill development. Under the aegis of the Anil Agarwal Foundation, the umbrella entity for Vedanta’s social initiatives, the Vedanta group has pledged Rs 5000 crore over the next five years on social impact programmes with a thrust on nutrition, women & child development, healthcare, animal welfare, and grass-root level sports. Vedanta and the group companies company have been featured in Dow Jones Sustainability Index 2020, and was conferred Frost & Sullivan Sustainability Awards 2020, CII Environmental Best Practices Award 2020, CSR Health Impact Award 2020, CII National Award 2020 for Excellence in Water Management, CII Digital Transformation Award 2020, ICSI National Award 2020 for excellence in Corporate Governance, People First HR Excellence Award 2020, ‘Company with Great Managers 2020’ by People Business and certified as a Great Place to Work 2021. Vedanta’s flagship Nand Ghar Project was identified as the best CSR project by the Government of Rajasthan. Vedanta Limited is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit http://www.vedantalimited.com
About Sesa Goa Iron Ore Business
Sesa Goa Iron Ore Business of Vedanta Limited is engaged in exploration, mining, and processing of iron ore. The company was founded in 1954 as Scambi Economici SA Goa and acquired by Vedanta. Since then, it has grown to be one among the top low-cost producers of iron ore in the country. During 1991-1995, it diversified into the manufacture of pig iron and metallurgical coke. It has also developed indigenous and environment-friendly technology for producing high quality metallurgical coke. Sesa Goa Iron Ore also has two waste heat recovery power plants of total capacity 60 MW that produces clean power by using the waste heat recovery from its coke ovens and blast furnace gas. Sesa Goa Iron Ore operations in India are in Goa & Karnataka.
~ The 9th edition of the Serendipity Arts Festival will be held at Panaji in Goa from December 15 to December 22.
~ 1,800-plus artists from across the globe will be participating in the festival this year.
~ Over 22 venues are accommodating the Festival’s extensive programming across Panaji.
Panaji, December 2024: Goa is set to roll out the red carpet for the ninth edition of Serendipity Arts Festival (SAF) 2024 which returns to Goa with its biggest edition yet. Featuring over 1,800 Goan, national, and international artists and 200-plus projects, panels, workshops, and public art interventions across 22 venues, it promises a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture.
South Asia’s largest multidisciplinary arts festival will convert its long-time home, the vibrant capital city of Panaji, into a hub for artistic endeavours and creative pursuits from December 15 to December 22.
“We are proud to host the ninth edition of SAF 2024, set to take place in the historic city of Panaji, its primary venue since inception. A popular part of Goan culture and a fixture in the state’s December event calendar, SAF 2024 returns on a much grander scale, aiming to strengthen community engagement through relevant conversations, further enhance accessibility in the arts and make the Festival an exciting, immersive experience for all,” said Sunil Kant Munjal, Founder Patron, Serendipity Arts.
The Festival is supported by the Government of Goa, in partnership with the Entertainment Society of Goa and the Corporation of the City of Panaji, along with the Directorate of Art and Culture, Goa, Goa Tourism Department, Kala Academy Goa, Goa Forest Department and Imagine Panaji Smart City Development.
SAF 2024 will be conducted across 22-plus venues spread across the culturally rich city of Panaji — the Art Park, the Excise Building, the Old GMC Complex, ESG Building, Santa Monica Jetty, Samba Square, Mala Pump House, the Arena at Nagalli Hills Ground, Kala Academy, Azad Maidan, Directorate of Accounts, Caranzalem Beach, Dona Paula Parking Lot and more.
Since its first edition in 2016, SAF has ensured that it has made the arts universally inclusive and accessible across creative disciplines, factoring in holistic sustainability and cultural place-making.
“As we unveil the 9th edition of the Serendipity Arts Festival, we reaffirm our belief in culture as a transformative soft power that can invigorate economies and bring meaningful change to society. Over the years, symbiotic relationships, collaborations, and partnerships have been at the heart of our journey, creating a multiplier effect for communities,” said Smriti Rajgarhia, Director of Serendipity Arts and the Serendipity Arts Festival.
This year, 13 expert curators are breathing life into the Festival’s disciplines. Bickram Ghosh and Zubin Balaporia are curators for Music; Veeranganakumari Solanki and Thukral & Tagra come together to curate Visual Arts; Theatre is curated by Quasar Thakore Padamsee and Sankar Venkateshwaran; Geeta Chandran and Jayachandran Palazhy are curating Dance; Culinary Arts is being curated by Elizabeth Yorke and Anusha Murthy of Edible Issues; Kristine Michael and Sandeep Sangaru are curating Craft; Salil Chaturvedi is heading the Accessibility quotient.
This year, visitors can explore sustainable food alternatives, delve into climate-conscious craft practices, and engage with multisensory exhibits as part of the Visual Arts curation. They can also groove to global music beats, experience a somatic symphony through Dance programming, and reflect on human experiences in Theatre, all while participating in accessibility and sustainability endeavours in the art space. AI interventions, curated by Mathieu Wothke (Somewhere Arts) and Joel Ferree (LACMA), will be prevalent across the visual, culinary, and performance disciplines, adding a layer of innovation and exploration to the festival.
Additionally, special curators like Preethi Athreya for Performance Art, Comedy Wagon for Stand-up Comedy, Gaya Tideman for Music in the Art Park, Zainab Wani (Zequenx) for the B-Side Project, and Damian Christinger for Ghosts in Machines bring fresh perspectives to this edition. Key exhibitions such as Eternal Echoes: The Resonance of Heart with Heritage, curated by Helen Acharya at Azad Maidan, and Carbon, led by Jahnavi Phalkey in collaboration with Ravi Agarwal, promise compelling and thought-provoking experiences.
Prioritising Goan and Goa-based artists in the festival’s programming, SAF has granted them a platform where their talent can put themselves on the global art map and garner international acclaim. The Goa Familia – Archive of Potential (Goan) Futures project, curated by Lina Vincent and Akshay Mahajan, also returns, offering a heartfelt exploration of Goan heritage through oral histories, photography, and archival materials. This year, eminent names in Goa’s cultural space like Assavri Kulkarni, Shankar Turi, Divesh Gadekar, Manashri Pai Dukle, Aldona Video Club, Bookworm Goa, Prashanti Talpankar and others are bringing their expertise to the Festival.
According to Pallavi Dempo, SAF Patron, the Serendipity Arts Festival plays a pivotal role in nurturing creativity and talent. “The Serendipity Arts Festival is the most sought-after cultural event in Goa, and we are truly fortunate to host it here. My heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Sunil Kant Munjal, Founder Patron of Serendipity Arts, for gifting Goa this incredible festival,” she said.
The Festival is free to all visitors upon registration. However, owing to popular demand and limited seating, some projects have a nominal fee per head. SAF 2024 also continues with dedicated programming for children, ensuring the next generation of artists is set up in good stead.
Quick Takes from Curators and Artists:
“We are extremely excited for the Visual Arts section. This year, as part of our project ‘Multiplay’, expect everything from getting your hair braided to a ‘book massage’ as a multisensory experience. ‘Poems on the Move’, curated by us and Salil Chaturvedi, will have poets grace the ears of SAF shuttle passengers, among many other public interventions,”
Thukral and Tagra, Visual Arts curator
“At ‘A Haptic Score’, visitors can come and explore how sound and sight, as synaesthesia invoke feelings that are deeply personal, and most of the works bring you back to yourself in some way,”
Veerangana Solanki, Visual Arts curator
“Since ceramics are a huge part of Goa’s history, from the terracotta roosters and lions, to the Azulejos. The idea was to combine the Goans and Goa-settled artisans, craftspeople with other parts of the country, especially West Bengal, as they share a colonial background. People can look forward to seeing these intertwined histories visually represented at the festival.”
Kristine Michael, Craft Curator
“Life in areas like Ladakh has several lessons to teach us, represented in the project ‘Abundance in Scarcity: Exploring Ladakh’s Sustainable Ingenuity’. People can come see how limited resources drive creativity and sustainability, cultural resilience and the significance of environmental stewardship.”
