Tag: Mapusa

Sports

GFA Cracks Down on Match-Fixing: 14 Players Charged in Goa Pro League Probe

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Football Association has taken a decisive step in addressing alleged match-fixing in the Goa Professional League 2025-26 season by issuing a detailed 288-page chargesheet to 14 players, most of whom are former members of Chapora Yuvak Sangh. The move marks a significant development in one of the most serious integrity-related investigations in Goan football in recent years.

The probe was initiated after Chapora Yuvak Sangh sacked nine players in October 2025 and subsequently filed a formal complaint along with an FIR at Mapusa Police Station. In response, the Goa Football Association appointed retired Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandesh T. Chodankar as the Investigating Officer to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations.

Following months of investigation, the Ethics Committee compiled an extensive chargesheet outlining the findings and evidence against the players involved. The accused players have now been given a period of 10 days to submit their responses, after which the committee is expected to deliberate and announce its decision in early March. Potential sanctions could have significant implications for the players’ careers and the broader football ecosystem in the state.

Speaking on the development, GFA President Dr. Caitano Fernandes reiterated his commitment to cleaning up the sport in Goa. He stated that upon taking office in 2022, he had assured clubs of firm action against unethical practices and emphasised that the association is moving steadily towards fulfilling that promise. He further added that the Executive Committee will take the strongest possible action against those found guilty.

The case has drawn widespread attention within the football community, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining integrity in competitive sport. As the process moves forward, the outcome is expected to set a strong precedent for governance and accountability in Goan football, reinforcing the importance of fair play and transparency in the game.

Events in Goa

Grand Curtain Raiser in Porvorim Sets the Stage for Goa Carnaval 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

The much-awaited Goa Carnaval 2026 commenced on a vibrant note this evening with a spectacular curtain raiser held at Porvorim, setting the tone for five days of colour, music and celebration across the State. The enthusiastic gathering of residents, artists and visitors transformed the town into a lively canvas of Goan culture and festive cheer.

The parade was flagged off by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Chairman GTDC Kedar J Naik, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar and other senior officials. The evening underscored a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and the Porvorim Carnaval Committee to deliver a celebration rooted in heritage and responsibility.

A defining highlight of the evening was the ceremonial proclamation by King Momo, Shri Cedric Da Costa, who led the procession in a traditional bullock cart, invoking the spirit of unity, joy and responsible celebration. The revival of this earlier custom paid homage to the legacy of musician Timoteo Fernandes, who played a pivotal role in reintroducing Carnaval in 1965 and popularising the arrival of King Momo in this distinctive manner.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots while ensuring that the younger generation experiences the festival in its authentic form. He also highlighted that this year’s curtain raiser was consciously organised with certain route restrictions in place due to traffic regulations, ensuring respect for commuters and residents. Notably, the celebration avoided large mechanised floats and fuel-driven vehicles, reflecting a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach.

Chairman GTDC Shri Kedar J Naik described Carnaval as a reflection of Goa’s unique cultural journey shaped by centuries of rich traditions and global influences. He noted that the festival brings together communities across faiths and regions, showcasing Goa’s vibrant artistic expression through music, dance and creative performances.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik remarked that the curtain raiser in Porvorim set the rhythm for the grand festivities that will unfold across the State. The evening featured enthusiastic participation from local cultural groups, with performances that filled the air with rhythm, colour and excitement.

The celebration now moves to Panaji on February 14 for the grand float parade, followed by festivities in Margao on February 15, Vasco da Gama on February 16 and Mapusa and Morjim on February 17. As celebrations unfold across these towns, Goa stands poised to experience one of its most cherished cultural festivals in full splendour, blending nostalgia, sustainability and collective joy.

Human Interest

Joshua De Souza Pens Heartfelt Note for His Father, Late Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza

allycaralgoa

“Some lives continue to shape our path long after they are gone.”

On the 7th death anniversary of former Goa Deputy Chief Minister Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza, his son and Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering his father not only as a respected political leader but as his guide and greatest source of strength.

In an emotional note, Joshua reflected on the values, discipline, and commitment to public service that his father embodied throughout his political journey. He expressed that the lessons taught to him — both as a son and as a young leader — continue to influence every decision he makes while serving the people of Mapusa and Goa.

Francisco De Souza was widely regarded for his administrative acumen, grassroots connect, and dedication to Goa’s development. His tenure as Deputy Chief Minister left a lasting mark on the state’s political landscape.

Seven years after his passing, his legacy continues to live on — not only in public memory but through the leadership and service carried forward by his son. The tribute stands as a reminder that true leadership is measured not only by positions held, but by the values instilled in the next generation.

For Joshua De Souza, the remembrance was deeply personal — a reflection of gratitude, respect, and responsibility to uphold the principles that defined his father’s life and career.

Social

JCI Panaji Hosts “Love Beyond Romance” Session to Empower Students in Mapusa

Tanisha Cardozo

JCI Panaji organized a powerful and engaging session titled “Love Beyond Romance” on February 5 at Purushottom Walawalkar Higher Secondary School in Mapusa, aiming to reshape how young minds understand the concept of love in today’s digital age.

The session was led by JC Dr. Shilpa, a medical expert, who encouraged students to move beyond typical romantic clichés and explore a broader, more meaningful definition of love. Drawing from her medical background, she explained how excessive use of social media and mobile gaming can trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical linked to pleasure and addiction. She warned that this “digital love” can often replace genuine emotional connections, affecting mental well-being and relationships.

Dr. Shilpa urged students to redirect their focus toward healthier forms of love—love for family, friends, society, and the nation. One of the key highlights of the session was her discussion on Artificial Intelligence versus Human Emotions. She emphasized that no matter how advanced technology becomes, human emotions will always remain irreplaceable and must be nurtured and protected.

The session was designed to be highly interactive. Through hands-on activities, students participated in group acts where they creatively demonstrated ways to help a friend overcome mobile addiction and rediscover the joy of real-life friendships. These activities helped students understand emotional management, teamwork, and leadership in a practical and engaging manner.

By the end of the session, both students and teachers expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Many requested more such workshops, recognizing the importance of life skills and emotional awareness in shaping responsible individuals.

Through this initiative, JCI Panaji reinforced the message that love extends far beyond romance—it is about self-respect, communication, empathy, and building a progressive character that contributes positively to society.

EduConnect

St. Mary’s Convent High School, Mapusa Held School Exhibition 3.0: Igniting Young Minds Through Creativity & Innovation

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

St. Mary’s Convent High School, Mapusa organised School Exhibition 3.0 on 21st and 22nd November 2025 in the school premises, bringing together creativity, innovation, and culture under one inspiring theme: “Igniting Young Minds Through Creativity & Innovation.” The exhibition showcased a wide range of student-created exhibits across Art, Science, and Social Science. Students from neighbouring schools visited the exhibition on 21st November 2025, while parents along with the students explored the displays on 22nd November 2025. Visitors were warmly welcomed with lively Goan folk dances that beautifully reflected the vibrant culture of Goa, accompanied by soothing Western musical pieces and classical Indian compositions. A counter presenting traditional Portuguese dishes added a distinctive and elegant cultural flavour, enriching the entire experience.

The entrance of the school was creatively decorated on the theme of Space, capturing the attention of visitors from the moment they arrived. Each floor featured colourful and thematic displays that added to the brilliance and beauty of the event. The Science section presented various working models and experiments that demonstrated scientific principles and innovations with clarity and enthusiasm. The Social Science exhibits explored historical discoveries, the prehistoric period, and key geographical ideas through charts and working models that were both educational and visually engaging. The Art displays featured paintings, newspaper art, and a variety of creative works that reflected the students’ artistic imagination, creativity, and dedication.

Visitors from other schools, as well as parents, expressed deep appreciation for the event. They praised the students’ creativity, innovation, and confidence, as well as the thoughtful planning and visually appealing presentations that made the exhibition informative, interactive, and inspiring. School Exhibition 3.0 once again reinforced the importance of fostering scientific thinking, encouraging artistic talent, and promoting historical and geographical understanding among students. By providing meaningful exposure to creative, cultural, and scientific pursuits, the event truly lived up to its theme, igniting young minds through creativity and innovation.