Tag: Digambar Kamat

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Senior Journalist and Former Editor Suresh Walwe Passes Away

Tanisha Cardozo

Veteran journalist and former editor Suresh Walve passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. He breathed his last at his residence in Whalshi. A respected name in Goan journalism, Walve was admired for his integrity, sharp editorial insight, and unwavering dedication to the principles of honest reporting.

Over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, Suresh Walve made a lasting contribution to the growth of Goa’s media landscape. His leadership in journalism was defined by fairness, accuracy, and a deep commitment to public accountability. He guided and mentored many young journalists, setting a professional benchmark for editorial excellence and ethical journalism in the State.

Walve began his journalistic journey with Dainik Rashtramat under the mentorship of the late editor Chandrakant Keni. After three years with the publication, he joined the Marathi daily Navprabha, where his dedication and editorial acumen saw him rise to the position of Editor. Over his 36-year-long career, Walve spent 22 years at the helm of Navprabha, known for his insightful and influential editorials that shaped public discourse in Goa. His passion for journalism was legendary—he worked without taking a single day off during his editorial tenure, reflecting a rare commitment to his craft.

Beyond journalism, Walve extended his service and expertise to various sectors of Goan public life. He served as a member, secretary, advisor, and president of several organizations, including the Bicholim Urban Co-operative Bank, Goa Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai Doordarshan, Film Screenplay Jury Committee, and the Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ). He also worked as an advisor to former Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, contributing his insight on developmental and communication initiatives.

An avid traveller, Walve explored the length and breadth of India and visited several countries abroad, embodying an unending curiosity and a deep appreciation for culture and diversity. His contribution to Goan media and society was acknowledged by the Goa Union of Journalists, which celebrated his life and work in its ‘Behind The Byline’ series in December last year.

The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of its esteemed member, describing Walve as a steadfast professional, respected colleague, and inspirational mentor. His passing marks a profound loss for the Goan media fraternity and for all who valued his voice, vision, and unwavering commitment to truth.

Suresh Walve was 76. He is survived by his wife and daughter. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists who follow in his footsteps, upholding the values of integrity, courage, and devotion to the truth that he so deeply cherished.

Sports

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates Francisco Monte Cruz Stand at Fatorda Stadium

allycaralgoa

Fatorda, Goa | October 14, 2025 — Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the Francisco Monte Cruz Stand at the Jawaharlal Nehru Football Stadium, Fatorda, during the India vs Singapore AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier, marking yet another milestone in Goa’s celebrated football history.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Sports Minister Shri Ramesh Tawadkar, PWD Minister Shri Digambar Kamat, MLA Shri Vijai Sardesai, and other prominent personalities from the sports fraternity.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted Goa’s long-standing love affair with football and emphasized the government’s continued commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure across the state. “This stand is not just a structure; it’s a tribute to our footballing spirit and a reflection of Goa’s dedication to nurturing talent and celebrating its sports legends,” he said.

The stand has been named in honor of Francisco Monte Cruz, a respected figure known for his significant contributions to Goan football. The gesture recognizes his legacy and passion for the sport, which has inspired generations of players and fans alike.

Sports Minister Shri Ramesh Tawadkar lauded the initiative, noting that the government’s efforts are aligned with making Goa a hub for international sports events. PWD Minister Shri Digambar Kamat and MLA Shri Vijai Sardesai also extended their congratulations, emphasizing the importance of preserving Goa’s football culture.

The grand event coincided with the thrilling India vs Singapore AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier, adding a special moment of pride and excitement for fans gathered at the stadium.

The newly inaugurated stand is expected to enhance the spectator experience and further solidify Fatorda Stadium’s reputation as one of India’s premier football venues.

With Goa continuing to play a central role in Indian football, the inauguration of the Francisco Monte Cruz Stand serves as a heartfelt reminder of the state’s passion, heritage, and commitment to the beautiful game.

Sports

Shaunak Badole & WCM Deekshitha Modipalli Crowned Champions at 38th National U-13 Chess Championship in Margao

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Margao, Goa: The 38th National Under-13 Chess Championship 2025 concluded in grand style at Daivadnya Bhavan, Margao, with Maharashtra’s Shaunak Badole and Telangana’s WCM Deekshitha Modipalli crowned champions in the Open and Girls’ categories, respectively.

Badole (Elo 2086) outplayed Kerala’s Arush A (2105) in the final round to secure the Open crown with an unbeaten score of 10 points. He received a trophy and ₹80,000. Karnataka’s Siddhanth Poonja (2215) and CM Madhvendra Pratap Sharma (2187) of Madhya Pradesh claimed second and third positions. Maharashtra’s Siddhant Salunke and Gujarat’s Shubh Atha completed the top five.

In the Girls’ section, WCM Deekshitha (1934) drew with Gujarat’s Arpita Patankar to clinch the title with 9.5 points. She too received a trophy and ₹80,000. Maharashtra’s Mysha Perwez (9 points) finished second, while West Bengal’s Maitreyi Mondal (8.5 points) secured third place. Andhra Pradesh’s WCM Aamuktha Guntaka and Sravyasree Bheemarasetty rounded off the top five.

Goa’s best performances came from Joshua Mark Telles (38th, 7.5 points) in the Open and Asmi Amit Terse (38th, 7 points) in the Girls’ event.

The tournament saw a record 597 participants from across India, making it one of the largest in the championship’s history. The closing ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Minister for Public Works Digambar Kamat, who released the tournament souvenir. The event also saw the presence of All India Chess Federation’s Ajit Verma and officials from the Goa Chess Association.

The championship not only showcased the exceptional talent of India’s young chess prodigies but also reaffirmed Margao’s growing reputation as a host city for national-level sporting events.

Sports

Goa Government to Honour ‘The Monte Cruz Stand’ in PJN Stadium, Fatorda

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

The Government of Goa has officially announced a fitting tribute to late former Sports Minister Francisco Monte Cruz, by naming a stand at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, after him. This recognition comes on the occasion of his first death anniversary, honouring the man who was responsible for the construction of the iconic stadium in a record 180 days between 1988 and 1989.

The PJN Stadium, inaugurated on January 19, 1989, continues to be a vibrant hub for major football matches and sports events in the state. Its existence owes much to Monte Cruz’s foresight, dedication, and leadership, which made it one of Goa’s proudest sports infrastructure projects.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and the Government of Goa have initiated the implementation of a long-standing resolution moved by Minister Digambar Kamat in the State Assembly, which called for the naming of a stand in the stadium after Monte Cruz. The resolution has finally come to life this year, ensuring that Monte Cruz’s contributions will be forever remembered by generations to come.

The announcement ceremony saw the presence of Monte Cruz’s family members, including his son Vijay Monte Cruz and daughter Hema Monte Cruz, who were present to witness the emotional and symbolic gesture. Both expressed their pride in seeing their father’s efforts officially recognised by the state.

The stand naming project is expected to resume within the next two weeks, following coordination and assistance from the Chief Minister’s office. This event not only commemorates the memory of Francisco Monte Cruz but also underscores the importance of honouring visionary leaders who have shaped the state’s legacy through infrastructure and public service.

As Goa continues to grow as a centre for national and international football, the Monte Cruz Stand will stand tall — a reminder of a man who built a stadium, and with it, a part of Goa’s sporting identity.

Health

Victor Hospital Launches South Goa’s First Blood Component Centre

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Margao, Goa – Victor Hospital and Medical Services Pvt. Ltd. proudly announces a significant milestone with the launch of its Blood Component Centre, the first facility of its kind in the region.

This state-of-the-art facility further strengthens Victor Hospital’s leadership in emergency and specialized medical care by ensuring the availability of essential blood components, including whole blood, packed red blood cells (PRBC), leucoreduced PRBC, platelet concentrate, and fresh frozen plasma (FFP).

The centre has received formal approval and licensing from both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO) — a major advancement for Goa’s healthcare system.
Patients in South Goa had to travel long distances during critical emergencies to access blood components. This new centre bridges that gap, ensuring timely and potentially life-saving access for conditions requiring transfusion support, such as trauma and emergency, major surgeries, cancer care, anaemia, clotting disorders, thrombocytopenia, and severe dengue.

The Blood Component Centre was formally inaugurated on 14th June, commemorating World Blood Donor Day, in the presence of Hon’ble MLA Mr. Digambar Kamat, Chairperson of Margao Municipality Shri Damodar Shirodkar, Social Worker Mr. Yogiraj Kamat, Directors Mr. Varun Albuquerque and Ms. Roana Costa, MS & COO Dr. Ajay Gangoli, and Sr. Pathologist Dr. Eugene D’Souza.
A mega blood donation camp was also held, and the 11th edition of Health Vogue was released to mark the occasion.

Dr. Ajay Gangoli, COO of Victor Hospital, stated that this service not only enhances patient care, but also ensures safer outcomes for people across the state and beyond.
“This also affirms our commitment to reach more people and provide uncompromised care when it matters most,” he added.

Dr. Eugene D’Souza, M.D., Senior Consultant at the Victor Hospital Blood Centre, said,
“This is not just a milestone for Victor Hospital – it marks a turning point in healthcare delivery for South Goa. A key highlight is the availability of leucoreduced PRBC, which undergoes a special filtration process to remove white blood cells. The blood is thoroughly tested to ensure safe transfusions.”

Mr. Varun Albuquerque, Director of Alcon Victor Group, said,
“We are proud to establish an advanced facility that can make a real difference in emergencies. This Centre reflects our values—clinical excellence, timely access, and compassion. It is our way of giving back to the people of Goa by building something that saves lives every day.”

Mr. Digambar Kamat, Hon’ble MLA of Margao, who inaugurated the facility, stated,
“Victor Hospital continues to be a pillar of strength for healthcare in South Goa. With the Blood Component Centre, they are setting a new benchmark. I congratulate the entire team for this achievement and their unwavering service to the community.”

Ms. Roana Costa, Executive Director, added,
“Our efforts go beyond infrastructure. We want to build awareness and inspire a culture of regular blood donation. With our Health Vogue magazine, now in its 11th edition, we continue to create meaningful health conversations across Goa.”

Victor Hospital’s ecosystem is supported by a committed team of super-specialists, enabling the delivery of comprehensive, holistic care across departments.
In line with its mission to promote safe blood transfusions, Victor Hospital is also launching a voluntary blood donation campaign. Regular donation drives will be organized in collaboration with NGOs, community groups, and corporate partners to reduce dependency on replacement donors and ease the burden on families during crises.

As part of the celebration, Victor Hospital felicitated ten selfless blood donors on world blood donor day for their invaluable contributions to saving lives.
A special recognition was accorded to Mr. Sudesh Narvekar, who has donated blood over 100 times, serving as an inspiring example of dedication to humanity and community health.