Tag: Grassroots Development

National

₹137 Crore Released to Strengthen Rural Local Bodies in Goa, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Uttarakhand

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

New Delhi, February 20: The Government of India has released over ₹137 crore under the 15th Finance Commission Grants to bolster Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) in Goa, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Uttarakhand during the current financial year.


According to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the funds include allocations pertaining to different financial years and are aimed at strengthening rural local governance across the four states.

Out of the total amount, ₹11.60 crore has been released as the second instalment of Untied Grants for 2023–24 for Goa. Meghalaya has received ₹27 crore as the second instalment of Untied Grants for 2021–22.

Sikkim has been allocated ₹6.60 crore as the second instalment of Untied Grants for 2025–26, while Uttarakhand has received ₹89.41 crore as the first instalment of Untied Grants for 2025–26.

The Untied Grants will be utilised by Rural Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions to address location-specific needs under the 29 subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution. However, the funds cannot be used for salaries or other establishment-related expenses.

The release is part of the Centre’s continued efforts to empower grassroots governance and enhance the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions across states.

Social

Majhe Ghar Forms Distributed at Socorro Panchayat to Provide Relief for Eligible Houses on Government Land

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Socorro, 3rd February 2026:
In a significant step towards strengthening housing security for eligible families, Majhe Ghar forms were distributed at the Socorro Panchayat. The programme was held in the presence of Tourism Minister and Porvorim MLA Rohan A Khaunte, along with Socorro Sarpanch Soniya Pednekar, Penha-De-Franca Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar, Penha-De-Franca Zilla Panchayat Member Sandeep Salgaonkar, Socorro Zilla Panchayat Member Amit Asnodkar, and other government officials and representatives of local bodies.


The initiative aims to facilitate the regularisation of houses constructed on government land prior to 2014, in accordance with the provisions and eligibility criteria of the Majhe Ghar scheme.

Speaking on the occasion, Rohan A Khaunte said that the Majhe Ghar scheme focuses on restoring dignity and security to families who have built their homes over decades and deserve legal protection and a stable future. He stated that the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to inclusive development, where progress goes hand in hand with social justice, and assured that the process will be carried out in close coordination with panchayats, elected representatives and officials.

He further highlighted that the scheme addresses long-standing concerns of residents living in informal settlements by bringing them within a regulated framework. This will enable eligible families to access basic services and welfare benefits while ensuring legal clarity for their homes.

During the programme, citizens were guided on eligibility criteria, documentation requirements and the step-by-step application process. Officials assured applicants of full support to ensure smooth submission and timely completion of formalities.

The Minister reiterated that the scheme is a collaborative effort involving the Government, local self-governments and elected representatives, and urged residents to come forward, submit applications responsibly and cooperate with authorities for transparent and timely implementation. The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to community welfare, social equity and grassroots development across Goa.

Sports, Spotlight

Meet Denzil Franco: The Footballer Turned Athlete Director

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Denzil Franco’s passion for football is contagious. As a former international footballer and current Athlete Director at the Denzil Franco Football School, he’s dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting football development in India.

A Childhood Dream
Growing up in Goa, Denzil was naturally drawn to football. His biggest influences were his family, coaches, and players he admired, both locally and internationally. Legends like Roberto Carlos and Cafu inspired him, but it was his late father, Joe Franco, who pushed him to pursue his passion.

International Career Highlights
Denzil’s international career was marked by several highlights, including winning the SAFF Championship and playing in the AFC Challenge Cup. He was also part of the National Squad that won the Nehru Cup in 2012, defeating Cameroon. Being part of the national team and contributing to Indian football on that stage was an unforgettable experience.

Coaching Philosophy
Denzil’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, technical skills, and a strong mentality. He believes that talent alone is not enough; players need the right guidance, exposure, and work ethic to succeed. His approach focuses on developing players holistically, ensuring they improve technically, mentally, and physically.

The Denzil Franco Football School
After his playing career, Denzil wanted to give back to the sport by nurturing young footballers. The Denzil Franco Football School (DFFS) was born from this desire, aiming to create a structured grassroots program where kids can develop in a professional yet enjoyable environment.

Identifying and Developing Young Talent
Denzil looks for technical ability, decision-making, work ethic, and attitude when evaluating young players. He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, adaptability, and fitness levels in assessing a player’s potential.

Future Plans and Collaborations
Denzil is working on expanding the DFFS reach, providing more players with quality training. He’s exploring collaborations to offer better training, facilities, and career pathways for young footballers.

A Message to Young Footballers
Denzil’s advice to young footballers is to remain patient, work hard, and persevere. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, dedication, and continuous learning in achieving success.