Tag: Goa

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.

Events in Goa

LTIMindtree Partners with IFFI and NFDC to Launch India’s First AI Film Festival and Hackathon in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

LTIMindtree, a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to launch India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Film Festival and Hackathon. Scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28, 2025, during the 56th edition of IFFI in Goa, the initiative aims to redefine the intersection of art, storytelling, and technology.

Since its inception in 1952, IFFI has stood as India’s premier cinematic platform, bringing together filmmakers and creative professionals from across the globe. With this collaboration, LTIMindtree, NFDC, and IFFI are set to introduce a new era of digital creativity through the integration of AI-powered tools in the cinematic process. The partnership, supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, represents a significant step towards fostering innovation in India’s creative economy.

Under this initiative, LTIMindtree’s BlueVerse CraftStudio and NFDC will create a dedicated ecosystem for AI-driven filmmaking, encouraging creators and technologists to collaborate on innovative projects that push the boundaries of storytelling. The AI Film Festival will feature screenings of AI-generated works across fiction, documentary, animation, and experimental categories, offering audiences a glimpse into how technology is reshaping artistic expression.

Complementing the festival is a 48-hour hackathon designed to challenge participants to build AI-powered storytelling and production tools. Alongside the competition, workshops and masterclasses led by global experts will cover topics such as ethical storytelling, AI in film production, and the role of emerging technologies in shaping creative narratives.

Shekhar Kapur, Festival Director of IFFI and Jury Chair of the IFFI AI Film Festival, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaboration, saying, “Cinema has always reflected the power of human imagination. Today, AI gives us a new lens that expands our ability to dream, design, and express. The IFFI AI Film Festival will be a playground for that evolution.”

Dr. Sujay Sen, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Interactive Services at LTIMindtree, echoed the sentiment, noting, “At LTIMindtree, we believe the future of storytelling lies at the confluence of human creativity and AI. Through this collaboration, we are proud to create a platform that nurtures innovation and brings the magic of AI to India’s creative economy.”

Adding to this, Shri Prakash Magdum, Managing Director of NFDC, said, “As India’s leading platform for cinematic excellence, IFFI has always celebrated emerging voices and technologies. Partnering with LTIMindtree and Shekhar Kapur allows us to extend this creative legacy into the world of AI responsibly, inclusively, and with a vision for global collaboration.”

The festival will also feature participation from international AI film festivals, with opportunities for global cross-credit recognition for creators and innovators. By bringing together cinema and cutting-edge technology, the AI Film Festival and Hackathon aim to position India as a global leader in AI-driven cinematic innovation.

Social

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.

Spotlight

Darshil Naik: The Soul Behind “Goan Heaven”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Darshil Naik is a computer engineer by profession, but his true passion lies far from the world of codes and circuits. He’s the heart and soul behind Goan Heaven, a platform that captures Goa’s rich food culture, local cuisines, and hidden culinary gems. What started as a simple love for photography has grown into a journey of storytelling — one that celebrates Goa’s flavors, people, and the emotions that food brings to life.

Darshil’s fascination with Goan food began at home, with the comforting Goan fish thali made by his mom. He fondly recalls fried Chonak, prawns, and Serradura as his all-time favorites. But it wasn’t just the food — it was the experience of family meals and local festivals that shaped his love for Goan cuisine. Every gathering had a special flavor, and every meal told a story of heritage and warmth.

Before Goan Heaven was born, Darshil used to wander through Goan streets capturing moments — from flowers to festivals. Photography was his way of preserving the essence of his surroundings. Gradually, his camera lens turned toward food, and that’s where he found his calling. Every restaurant he visited, every home-cooked dish he tasted, reminded him that Goan food deserved to be celebrated on a larger stage.

The name “Goan Heaven” came to him naturally. For Darshil, every Goan dish — from a plate of spicy prawns to a Sunday curry — feels like heaven on a plate. When he started posting, not everyone understood what he was trying to build. But his family believed in him, and as time passed, the same people who once doubted his efforts became his biggest supporters.

The journey wasn’t always easy. Traveling to shoots was tough in the beginning — Darshil didn’t even have his own bike. But his father’s gift of one changed everything, allowing him to explore Goa freely and document its hidden food stories. His unique storytelling style soon stood out — showing not just food, but the people, places, and emotions behind it.

One of his favorite things about Goan Heaven is the connection with his followers. Many suggest places he should try, and some of those recommendations have become his personal favorites. People often message him saying they tried a dish or visited a restaurant because of his posts — even his professors once asked him for food recommendations, which made him realize how far his work had reached.

Being recognized by the Government of Goa as a social media influencer was a defining moment in Darshil’s journey. It felt like a milestone — proof that his work was helping preserve and promote Goan culture. He dreams of taking Goan Heaven beyond Goa, to a national and international audience, so the world can experience Goa beyond its beaches — through its authentic food stories.

If his journey were a dish, Darshil says it would be “Susegad Curry” — full of calmness, flavor, and love, just like Goa itself. His story is one of passion turned purpose, a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful journeys begin with a camera, a plate of food, and a dream to share your world with others.

Through Goan Heaven, Darshil Naik continues to serve more than food — he serves stories, culture, and a taste of Goa that lingers long after the meal is over.

Human Interest

Goa Police Officers Honoured with ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ for Exemplary Service

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Police has reason to celebrate as two of its distinguished officers — DySP Vishwesh Karpe and Police Inspector Laxi Amonkar — have been conferred with the ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’, a national award recognizing exceptional performance and professional excellence in policing.

DySP Vishwesh Karpe has been honoured in the field of Investigation for his outstanding leadership and meticulous supervision in solving a sensational murder case involving a minor boy under the jurisdiction of Calangute Police Station. The case, which had gripped public attention, demanded precise coordination, evidence handling, and strategic investigation. Under Karpe’s direction, the team ensured that justice was swiftly and decisively served. His approach to investigative work — marked by thoroughness, empathy, and commitment to truth — exemplifies the highest standards of policing.

Police Inspector Laxi Amonkar was recognised in the field of Intelligence for his significant role in one of Goa’s most impactful narcotics operations. His timely and actionable intelligence led to a successful NDPS raid, resulting in the seizure of narcotic substances valued at ₹43 crores. The operation not only disrupted a major drug network but also reinforced the Goa Police’s continued efforts to combat the drug menace with precision and resolve. PI Amonkar’s contribution reflects the vital importance of intelligence-led policing and inter-departmental coordination in addressing organised crime.

The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak is one of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ distinguished recognitions for police personnel across India. It acknowledges officers who demonstrate exceptional efficiency, commitment, and professionalism in their respective fields — from investigation and intelligence to law and order, community service, and technological innovation.

For Goa Police, this recognition marks a proud moment of institutional excellence. Both officers embody the ethos of the force — integrity, diligence, and service before self. Their achievements highlight the tireless work that goes on behind the scenes in maintaining law and order, ensuring justice, and safeguarding the community.

The honour also serves as an inspiration to young officers across India, reaffirming that dedication and ethical conduct are the cornerstones of effective policing. Whether it’s cracking complex criminal cases or disrupting high-value narcotics operations, officers like DySP Vishwesh Karpe and PI Laxi Amonkar remind us that excellence in law enforcement begins with a deep sense of duty and purpose.

As Goa celebrates this national recognition, it stands as a testament to the professionalism and unwavering commitment of its police force — men and women who serve not just with authority, but with integrity and heart.