Tag: Community Support

EduConnect

Ritesh Ravi Naik Attends Lokvishwas Pratishthan Programme as Chief Guest, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Welfare

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panaji, January 2026: Ritesh Ravi Naik attended a programme organised by Lokvishwas Pratishthan as the Chief Guest, where he distributed benefits to beneficiaries and acknowledged the organisation’s remarkable contribution towards the education and welfare of differently-abled children.



Lokvishwas Pratishthan has been serving society for the past 44 years, working consistently to empower differently-abled children through education, skill development, care and social inclusion. Over the decades, the organisation has played a significant role in fostering confidence, dignity and self-reliance among thousands of children and their families.

Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Ravi Naik praised the selfless efforts of Lokvishwas Pratishthan and its team, stating that grassroots organisations play a crucial role in building an inclusive and compassionate society. He emphasised that the welfare and empowerment of differently-abled children must remain a collective responsibility and assured continued support for initiatives that promote equal opportunities and social justice.

During the programme, Ritesh Ravi Naik interacted with students, parents and staff members, appreciating their resilience, determination and achievements. He also took part in the distribution of benefits, further reinforcing his commitment to social welfare and inclusive development.

The event concluded with words of gratitude from the organisers, who acknowledged Ritesh Ravi Naik’s presence and encouragement as a source of inspiration for their ongoing mission to uplift and empower differently-abled children.

Social

“Different Strokes” Art Exhibition Brings Hope Through Creativity with Tr. Dylan Fernandes at Sanskruti Bhavan

Tanisha Cardozo

The “Different Strokes” Art Exhibition at Sanskruti Bhavan, Central Library, Patto, Panjim, has brought together a vibrant collection of over a hundred artworks created by twenty-five talented artists from Goa. This inspiring exhibition, which is open to the public until Sunday, 23rd November 2025, carries a powerful purpose—every artwork showcased contributes to a larger mission of hope, compassion, and transformation. Organized by artist and curator Mrs. Rubina Dsouza in collaboration with Don Bosco’s Charities, the exhibition was inaugurated by Arch. Neville Monteiro, President of ‘Assistencia’. It serves as a meaningful platform where art meets philanthropy, allowing visitors to experience creativity while supporting a significant social cause.

Among the many artists featured, the works of Teacher Dylan Fernandes from Holy Cross High School, Siolim, daughter of Domingos and Benediana Fernandes, stand out as a heartfelt offering as part of her Pilgrimage of Hope during the Jubilee Year. This initiative gave her, along with many other artists, an opportunity to lend their artistic talent to make a difference in the lives of those in need. The exhibition features both established names and emerging creators, all united in their desire to bring hope to the marginalized.

Don Bosco Konkan Development Society, a branch of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has long been committed to improving the lives of children, youth, women, and socially disadvantaged communities. Their mission—“Transforming Lives for a Better Tomorrow”—is reflected through their numerous programmes focusing on education, skill development, women’s empowerment, child care, and community welfare. With the entire proceeds from the sale of artworks dedicated to supporting these outreach initiatives, “Different Strokes” stands as a true example of art being used as a force for good. The exhibition not only celebrates creativity but also amplifies the collective responsibility of society to uplift its vulnerable sections. It is an event that touches the heart, inspires action, and proves that art, when shared generously, can indeed transform lives.

Sports

Goa Has Sporting Talent but Needs the Right Guidance and Support: Mandar Rao Dessai

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, Goa – The passion for football in Goa remains as vibrant as ever, and former Indian national team footballer and current Chennaiyin FC player Mandar Rao Dessai believes that the state has the potential to produce even more world-class athletes — provided they receive the right guidance and support.

Speaking at a sports kit distribution event in Arpora–Nagoa, organized by the V.P. Arpora–Nagoa Panchayat, Mandar emphasized the importance of nurturing young sporting talent through community involvement and mentorship. Reflecting on his own journey, the 33-year-old footballer recalled the challenges he faced during his early days. “When I started playing, there were challenges — lack of kits, infrastructure, and support. But today, everything is available,” he said.

Mandar noted that while opportunities for sports have grown significantly across India, many young players still struggle due to limited financial and infrastructural support. He urged everyone — from local organizations and coaches to families and sports clubs — to come together to provide the right environment for emerging athletes. “We all should come together to motivate and guide young players so they can become great athletes,” he said.

The footballer also highlighted the crucial role that families play in shaping the careers of young sportspersons. “Support from family and friends — whether moral or financial — is crucial. I have represented my state and country, and I know there are many more talented players in Goa who just need the right training and guidance,” he added.

Calling discipline and dedication the cornerstones of success, Mandar expressed optimism that Goa will continue to produce outstanding athletes who can make India proud. “Football runs in the blood of every Goan,” he said, capturing the enduring spirit of the state’s connection with the sport.

During the event, Mandar thanked the Panchayat officials for their efforts in promoting grassroots sports and encouraged further development of local sporting infrastructure. His message was clear — with passion, perseverance, and community backing, Goa’s next generation of athletes can achieve greatness on national and international stages.

Social

Disability Rights Association of Goa Marks 22 Years with Cyber Crime Awareness Session

Tanisha Cardozo

The Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) recently marked its 22nd year of service to persons with disabilities in the state. The milestone was commemorated with a session focused on Cyber Crime Awareness, conducted by Cyber Yoddha Sahil Awasthi and PC Anmol from the Panaji Police Station. The session educated attendees about the various types of cyber frauds and urged vigilance before clicking on suspicious links.

DRAG President Avelino de Sa thanked the members for their steadfast support over the years and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to integrating persons with disabilities into mainstream society. He encouraged members to follow the Cyber Dost 14C WhatsApp channel and the Goa Police Cyber Crime team’s social media handles to stay updated on cyber fraud prevention.

The event also featured the distribution of food grains to 90 families of persons with disabilities, highlighting the community spirit and support that DRAG has fostered over the past two decades.

The celebration reflected DRAG’s ongoing dedication to the empowerment, inclusion, and welfare of persons with disabilities in Goa, combining awareness, education, and tangible support for the community.

Social

Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai Distributes School Materials Through Deccan Fine Chemicals’ CSR Initiative

Tanisha Cardozo

In a strong gesture of support toward grassroots education, Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai led the distribution of school materials to students from government primary schools across Corlim, Old Goa, Cumbarjua, Carambolim, Adkon, Bhoma, and Marcela. This initiative was carried out under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program of Deccan Fine Chemicals.

The event was marked by the presence of key stakeholders from both the company and the community, including CSR Head Gaurav Kudchadkar, Site Head Kiran Dessai, Human Resources Lead Yogesh Arora, and Assistant Director of Education (A.D.E.I) Neeta Faldessai. Together, they helped ensure that the distribution went smoothly, reaching children across these regions who benefit immensely from such educational support.

This CSR activity highlights the critical role that public-private partnerships can play in uplifting the educational infrastructure in semi-urban and rural areas. By equipping students with the basic materials they need to participate in learning, this initiative sends a powerful message about inclusivity, opportunity, and the long-term benefits of investment in education.

For the young students who received the school kits, the gesture goes beyond notebooks and pencils — it represents recognition, encouragement, and hope. It is a reminder that education is a shared responsibility, and that collaboration between elected representatives and corporate citizens can pave the way for lasting community transformation.