Tag: India

Special Occasion

Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time: Celebrating National Technology Day

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Written by Intern Elsa De Souza, Team Allycaral

May 11 marks a significant milestone in India’s scientific history – National Technology Day. This day commemorates the successful nuclear tests conducted at Pokhran in 1998, establishing India as the sixth nuclear nation in the world. The tests, codenamed Operation Shakti, were conducted under the direction of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and marked a major breakthrough in India’s nuclear program.

India’s journey of innovation has been remarkable. From pathbreaking space missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Mangalyaan to cutting-edge defence systems like the Tejas fighter plane and INS Arihant, our nation has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. In the health and digital spaces, initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and homemade vaccines like Covaxin have transformed lives, making technology accessible and effective.

Science and technology have the power to transform societies and empower nations. India’s achievements in these fields are not just indicators of progress but also a testament to the nation’s commitment to harnessing technology for the benefit of society. As we celebrate National Technology Day, we recognize the importance of innovation in shaping our future.

The theme “Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time” reminds us that every breakthrough, no matter how small, contributes to building a stronger and smarter nation. It emphasizes the need for continuous innovation and progress in science and technology to address the challenges of tomorrow.

As we mark National Technology Day, we call upon young minds to take up the mantle of innovation and research. We urge policymakers, industry leaders, and academia to work together to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. Together, we can build a future powered by innovation, self-sufficiency, and sustainable development.

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that science and technology hold. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to biotechnology and renewable energy, the opportunities for innovation are endless. Let us work together to empower tomorrow, one innovation at a time.

On this National Technology Day, we celebrate India’s scientific prowess and commitment to innovation. We honor the scientists, engineers, and innovators who have made significant contributions to our nation’s progress. We also recognize the importance of science and technology in shaping our future and pledge to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Key Highlights

  • National Technology Day is celebrated on May 11 to commemorate India’s nuclear tests in 1998.
  • India’s achievements in science and technology have transformed lives and empowered the nation.
  • The theme “Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time” emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation.
  • The day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of science and technology in shaping our future.
  • It is a call to action for young minds, policymakers, and industry leaders to work together to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Events in Goa

GOA RAJ BHAVAN ORGANISES ‘SARVA DHARMA SADASU’ TO CONDEMN PAKISTAN’S UNETHICAL ACTS AGAINST INDIA

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May 10, 2025

In a powerful display of national unity and interfaith solidarity, the Goa Raj Bhavan today organized a ‘Sarva Dharma Sadasu’ (All-Religious Gathering) to collectively condemn the unethical and unwarranted actions of Pakistan against India. The event was held at the historic Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, Goa.

The gathering saw the participation of prominent religious leaders and representatives from various faiths including Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Sikhism. The solemn assembly was convened to express unwavering support for the Indian Armed Forces and the Union Government for their steadfast efforts in defending the nation’s sovereignty and integrity.

The Governor of Goa, Shri P. S. Sreedharan Pillai, and Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, graced the occasion and addressed the gathering. In his address, the Governor emphasized the importance of unity and the timeless power of truth. “Dharma is truth, and truth will always prevail. Ultimately, evil will fail,” he stated, urging all citizens to stand united for the nation.
Religious leaders who spoke at the event included:
Padma Shri Awardee Adhyatm Shiromani Sadguru Brahmeshanand Acharya Swamiji, Fr. Lawrence, Fr. Noel D’Costa, Shri Gurmej Singh and Maulana Mohd. Irfan Raza.

Each speaker expressed heartfelt prayers and messages of support for the soldiers and the central leadership working tirelessly to safeguard India.


The ‘Sarva Dharma Sadasu’ served as a significant symbol of national unity and spiritual resilience, showcasing that irrespective of religious background, the people of India stand together in the face of external aggression.

Sports

Ethan Wins 5 Medals for India at Western Asia Youth Chess Championships

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Goa’s Ethan Vaz has once again made India proud, clinching five medals at the Western Asia Youth Chess Championships 2025, held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from April 20 to 29. With this feat, Ethan’s all-time medal tally for India has climbed to 21.

The championships comprised three formats—Rapid, Standard (Classical), and Blitz—and was organized by the Tajikistan Chess Federation under the auspices of the Asian Chess Federation and FIDE.

Competing in the Under-16 (Sub-Junior) Open category, Ethan secured individual medals in all three formats: Silver in Standard, Silver in Rapid and Bronze in Blitz. He also led from the front to bag Team Bronze medals for India in Standard and Rapid formats. Notably, Team India had only two players in this category—competing against full three-member teams from countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan—making the team medals a particularly commendable achievement.

At just 13 years old, Ethan was eligible for the Under-14 category but opted to challenge himself by playing in the higher Under-16 category, consistent with his long-term development strategy. His selection to represent India in the higher age group followed from his medal-winning performance at the Sub-Junior (Under-15) National Chess Championship 2024. It may be noted that earlier Ethan had won the Gold Medal at the Commonwealth Chess Championships, 2024, while similarly challenging himself in the Under-16 category.

This year’s edition of the Western Asia Youth Chess Championships saw participation from 391 players across 13 countries, including 37 titled players.

“I was hoping for gold, but a consistent performance with podium finishes in all formats is an accomplishment to be very proud of,” said Ethan.

Goa Chess Association President Mahesh Candolkar, Secretary Ashesh Keni, Treasurer Vishwas Pilarnkar, and other officials congratulated Ethan on his stellar performance and wished him continued success.

“We are very grateful to Ethan’s coaches, sponsors, The King’s School, and all our well-wishers for their unwavering support,” said Ethan’s mother, Linda Fernandes. “We also thank AICF, GCA, SAI, and SAG for their constant encouragement and assistance.”

Ethan and his father are currently en route to India, with their travel plans disrupted due to a last-minute cancellation of their connecting flight following the closure of Pakistan’s airspace—a consequence of the recent Pahalgam terror attack

Business

Gold Prices Reach Record High, Crossing Rs 1 Lakh per 10 Grams in India

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Gold prices have surged to a record high, crossing Rs 1 lakh per 10 grams in India. This significant milestone is driven by global uncertainties, including the US-China trade war and disagreements between the US President and Fed Chairman regarding interest rate reductions.

Current Gold Prices
The current gold prices in India are as follows:

  • 24-carat gold: Rs 10,150 per gram in Delhi, Rs 10,135 per gram in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
  • 22-carat gold: Rs 9,305 per gram in Delhi, Rs 9,290 per gram in Mumbai and Kolkata.

Factors Contributing to the Price Hike
Several factors have contributed to the surge in gold prices, including:

  • Global Market Uncertainty: The US-China trade war and tariff tensions have led to a rally in safer assets like gold. As investors seek safe-haven assets, gold prices have surged.
  • Weakening US Dollar: The dollar index dropped to 3-year lows, enhancing gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset. A weaker dollar makes gold more attractive to investors, driving up prices.
  • Central Bank Buying: Sustained buying by central banks and institutional investors is pushing the rally forward. Central banks have been consistently buying gold, adding to the demand and driving up prices.

Impact on the Jewellery Industry
Despite the record-high prices, the jewellery industry remains optimistic. There’s increasing traction in natural diamond jewellery and coloured gemstone pieces. Gold coins and bars are seeing steady demand as consumers turn to gold for long-term security.

Market Trends
The market trends indicate a continued surge in gold prices, with:

  • MCX Gold: Reaching a record high of Rs 99,178 per 10 grams, rising Rs 1,900 after crossing the Rs 1 lakh threshold.
  • Silver Prices: Rose but retreated from daily highs due to profit-taking in industrial metals.

Conclusion
The surge in gold prices to a record high, crossing Rs 1 lakh per 10 grams in India, is driven by global uncertainties and a weakening US dollar. While the jewellery industry remains optimistic, the market trends indicate a continued surge in gold prices. As investors seek safe-haven assets, gold prices are likely to remain high, driven by sustained buying by central banks and institutional investors.

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Goa Tourism to participate in the Great Indian Travel Bazaar 2025

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Panaji, April 17, 2025 : The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is pleased to announce its participation in the 14th edition of the Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) 2025, scheduled to take place from 4th to 6th May 2025 in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Organised by the Government of Rajasthan; the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), GITB is one of India’s premier travel marts. It serves as a dynamic platform to showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings to a wide network of international buyers and key industry stakeholders.

Goa’s participation in this prestigious event highlights its commitment to strengthening its footprint in the global tourism market. The Department aims to leverage this opportunity to forge new collaborations, expand outreach, and promote Goa as a year-round destination that offers far more than its celebrated coastline.

Through a series of B2B meetings, business networking opportunities, and interactive sessions, Goa Tourism will highlight the state’s evolving tourism ecosystem. From heritage trails and vibrant cultural experiences to nature and wellness tourism, hinterland adventures, and Regenerative Tourism initiatives, the Goa pavilion will present a holistic view of the state’s unique and responsible tourism practices.

Speaking ahead of the event, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, said, “Goa’s participation at GITB 2025 marks yet another opportunity to highlight the state’s rich and multifaceted identity. While its beaches are globally celebrated, there’s much more to discover — from vibrant cultural traditions and distinctive festivals to verdant hinterlands and meaningful, sustainable travel experiences. Our past participation in GITB has been fruitful, and this year we continue that tradition by showcasing Goa as a destination that is both timeless and ever-evolving.”
Delegates and visitors to the Goa Pavilion can expect meaningful interactions with tourism officials, insights into new initiatives, and curated travel experiences crafted for both domestic and international markets.

Goa Tourism warmly invites all travel professionals, buyers, and industry partners to visit Team Goa at the Great Indian Travel Bazaar 2025 and explore the many stories that make Goa a destination like no other.