Tag: Goa News

Human Interest

Ponda’s Tejas Kovlekar Joins Indian Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps

allycaralgoa

In an inspiring story of dedication and compassion, Captain Tejas Kovlekar from Ponda, Goa, has been commissioned as a doctor in the Indian Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC)—a unit that manages the training, welfare, and medical care of animals in the Army. The corps operates under the motto ‘Pashu Seva Asmakam Dharma’ – ‘Service to animals is our duty.’

Tejas completed his military training in May 2025 and was commissioned as a Captain in June. His passion for animals has been lifelong, and according to his father, Nitin Kovlekar, who works at Goa Dairy, Tejas always had a soft spot for animals. His mother, Nikita, is a PWD employee.

After his 12th-grade education at GVM College, Ponda, Tejas surprised his family by choosing veterinary studies over traditional career routes. He cracked a competitive entrance at Kankavli, where only six out of 135 students were selected. He pursued veterinary medicine at a reputed college under Nagpur University in Mumbai.

Though his first attempt at the highly selective Army veterinary exam was unsuccessful, Tejas reapplied, cleared the rigorous five-day selection process, and successfully completed his training. The exam is known for its difficulty, with only a handful of candidates making it through nationally.

Tejas now joins the ranks of just four Goans who have served in the Army’s Veterinary Corps—a rare honour. He follows in the footsteps of Col Richmark Fernandes from Nuvem, who previously served as a UN peacekeeper in South Sudan.

His journey is a testament to determination, discipline, and the power of turning passion into purpose. Goa salutes its new Captain.

Sports

Shikha Pathak Becomes Asia’s First Female Head Referee in Fighting Ju-Jitsu

allycaralgoa

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, July 3, 2025 — In a landmark achievement for Indian martial arts and female representation in international sports, Shikha Pathak, a resident of Vasco, Goa, has been appointed as the Head Referee for the Fighting Ju-Jitsu discipline across Asia by the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU). With this appointment, Shikha not only becomes the first Indian but also the only woman from the continent to hold this prestigious post.

As Head Referee, Shikha will oversee the Referee Education Development Program across 44 Asian nations, spanning East, West, Central, and South-West Asia. This involves mentoring, technical training, and ensuring the standardization of officiating across all major Ju-Jitsu events in the region.

2024-25 has been a groundbreaking period for Shikha. She became the first Asian referee selected for the World Combat Games in Riyadh, serving among the elite International Technical Officials. She also became the first Indian referee to officiate at the Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

Her international credentials include:

  • Adult Ju-Jitsu World Championship in Mongolia
  • Youth World Championship in Kazakhstan
  • JJIF Grand Prix in Thailand
  • World Contact Cup
  • Multiple other global-level tournaments

She has also been officially selected to officiate at the upcoming World and Youth Ju-Jitsu Championships in Greece, continuing her impressive run at the sport’s highest level.

Shikha’s journey is more than just personal triumph — it’s a pathbreaking moment for Indian martial arts and women in sports leadership. Her dedication, technical excellence, and international recognition mark her as a role model for both athletes and officials.

Her rise also puts a spotlight on Goa’s growing presence in global sports, showcasing how regional talent is making waves internationally.

As she takes charge of shaping Ju-Jitsu officiating across an entire continent, Shikha Pathak’s story stands as a testament to determination, excellence, and trailblazing leadership. Her appointment will surely inspire a new wave of Indian referees—especially women—to dream big and go global.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒, Human Interest

Amthane Dam Access Closed for 45 Days Starting July 5 for Safety and Maintenance

allycaralgoa

Sattari, Goa – July 3, 2025: Authorities have announced the temporary closure of public access to Amthane Dam for a period of 45 days, starting July 5, citing safety concerns and essential maintenance work during the monsoon season.

Located in the scenic Sattari taluka, Amthane Dam is a key water source for nearby regions and a popular spot for nature lovers and local visitors. However, with rising water levels and ongoing structural inspections, the Water Resources Department has decided to restrict public entry until mid-August.

Officials have emphasized that the closure is preventive and aims to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, especially during the peak of the monsoon when the area becomes more vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and slippery terrain.

“The dam is undergoing routine inspection and strengthening work. During this period, access will remain restricted to avoid any accidents or disturbances to maintenance activities,” said a department spokesperson.

Local authorities have placed warning signage and temporary barricades at all entry points. Security personnel will also be stationed to ensure compliance. Residents and tourists are advised to refrain from attempting unauthorized entry, both for their own safety and to avoid penalties.

While the closure is expected to be an inconvenience for some, particularly weekend tourists and photographers, the administration has requested the public’s cooperation and patience during this crucial period.

The dam is expected to reopen by August 20, subject to weather conditions and the completion of the ongoing work.

Automobiles

Goa Automobile Dealers Association Welcomes New Executive Committee Led by Rajesh Khaunte

allycaralgoa

The Goa Automobile Dealers Association (GADA) is proud to announce its newly elected Executive Committee, ushering in a fresh chapter of leadership and commitment to the state’s automotive retail industry. At the helm is Mr. Rajesh Khaunte, who takes over as President, bringing with him an impressive 35 years of experience in the auto sector.

The committee was elected unopposed during GADA’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday, 27th June 2025. The unanimous support for the new committee highlights the collective confidence of GADA members in the vision and capability of the incoming team.

Mr. Rajesh Khaunte, a respected name in Goa’s business community, has been a pivotal part of the state’s automobile ecosystem for decades. With his in-depth knowledge of market trends and a strong track record in operations, he aims to address key challenges faced by dealerships while fostering ethical business practices and sustainable growth in the sector.

“I am deeply honoured to be elected as the President of the Goa Automobile Dealers Association,” said Mr. Khaunte. “My focus will be on resolving long-standing issues in the industry, engaging proactively with stakeholders, and promoting professionalism within the dealer network.”

He also expressed his gratitude to outgoing President Mr. Prashant Joshi, commending his leadership and relentless efforts over the last decade. “Mr. Joshi and his team have done a commendable job in advancing the interests of the auto industry in Goa. I sincerely thank them for their humongous efforts and dedication.”

New Executive Committee (2025–2027):

  • President: Mr. Rajesh Khaunte
  • Secretary: Mr. Aniket Kuncolinekar
  • Treasurer: Mr. Suraj Caculo
  • Joint Secretary: Mr. Ashok Sapra

Committee Members:

  • Mr. Matin Naik
  • Mr. Parind Nachinolkar

GADA continues to represent the collective voice of authorized automobile dealers across Goa. The association plays a crucial role in engaging with government departments, OEMs, and financial institutions, while also acting as a platform for collaboration among dealers.

With a fresh leadership team, GADA is set to enhance its role as an advocate for industry progress, fair policies, and transparent business practices.

EduConnect

INDIAN COAST GUARD CONDUCTS MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE  WORKSHOP AT GOA

allycaralgoa

Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 11, Goa,  conducted a State Level Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) Workshop on 25 Jun 2025 for all Stakeholders in the State of Goa. The workshop was attended by representatives of various agencies i.e North and South Goa Collectorate, Department of Tourism, CISF, Fisheries Department, Mormugao Port Authority (MPA), Captain of Ports (COP), Customs, Coastal Security Police (CSP), Airport Authority of India (AAI), IOCL and ONGC. Workshop was aimed at revalidating SOPs and identifying gaps in existing set up for corrective measures. It also aimed to strengthen Maritime Search & Rescue across the coast of Goa through effective coordination.

Indian Coast Guard is the nodal agency in the country responsible for Executing/ Coordinating Search and Rescue (SAR) mission in the Indian Maritime Search and Rescue Region (ISRR).

The workshop was inaugurated by Deputy Inspector General Manoj Bhatia, Tatrakshak Medal, Commander Coast Guard Goa Area. Speaking on the occasion, the Commander emphasized the need of such workshops for better knowhow on role, response and rescue capability of the Resource Agencies in the State of Goa. He added that such workshops also assist in fostering optimum synergy to deliver collaborative efforts while combating Maritime SAR emergencies and in being well prepared to save any precious life and property at Sea.

During the workshop, discussions were held on the proactive approaches that the Coast Guard and other agencies are taking to ensure the safety of mariners at sea. Inclusion of measures such as conducting regular safety drills and providing fishermen with information on the latest weather forecasts was emphasised.