Tag: Quepem

Sports

Quepem Boy Lesvin Rebelo Selected for U-17 SAFF Championship in Sri Lanka

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Lesvin Rebelo, a young footballer from Ambaulim-Quepem and a student of Damodar Higher Secondary School, Gudi-Paroda, has achieved a significant milestone by earning a spot in the Indian U-17 football team for the upcoming SAFF Championship. The tournament is set to take place in Sri Lanka later this year and will see top youth teams from across South Asia compete at an international level.

Lesvin’s selection marks a proud moment not only for his family and school but also for the broader Goan football community. Known for his commitment on the field and disciplined training ethic, Lesvin has consistently stood out in youth football circuits. His coaches and peers have praised both his work ethic and technical abilities, with many noting that his selection is well-deserved and earned through dedication and perseverance.

The SAFF (South Asian Football Federation) Championship will give Lesvin the opportunity to showcase his skills on a larger platform and compete with some of the best young talent in the region. It’s a stepping stone that could open doors for future international opportunities and also serves as inspiration for many young players in Goa and beyond.

This achievement also highlights the importance of nurturing talent at the grassroots level and reflects the growing influence of Goan players in the national football landscape. With support from his mentors, school, and community, Lesvin now has the chance to represent India and bring glory to his hometown of Quepem on an international stage.

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Pope John XXIII High School Clinches U14 Sepaktakraw Quepem Taluka Championship

Tanisha Cardozo

Pope John XXIII High School, Quepem, showcased stellar skill and teamwork to secure the U14 Sepaktakraw Quepem Taluka Championship, defeating Don Bosco Sulcorna with a commanding score of 2–0 (15–7, 15–8) in the final match.

The championship, organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA), Campal–Panjim, brought together talented young athletes from across the taluka, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for Sepaktakraw, a dynamic and acrobatic sport gaining popularity in Goa.

The victory marks a proud moment for Pope John XXIII High School. The team’s success is credited not only to their rigorous preparation and teamwork but also to the strong support system provided by the school faculty. They were congratulated warmly by Principal Fr. Manuel Vas, Vice Principal Fr. Christovan Cardozo, Physical Education Teacher Sir Cosme Ferrao, and Dr. Aldrin Mascarenhas, all of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping the school’s sporting culture.

As champions, these young athletes serve as a testament to the power of discipline, guidance, and determination in sports. With continued encouragement and support, Pope John XXIII High School aims to nurture more future stars who will make their mark at state and national levels.

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Goa Tourism Launches Homestay & BnB Scheme to Empower Women and Boost Hinterland Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim, 7th August 2025: In a landmark move, Goa Tourism has launched the Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme, aimed at empowering women, revitalising rural tourism, and promoting community-led travel experiences. This new scheme was unveiled by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, alongside Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte and other key dignitaries at the PAC Hall, Secretariat.

🎯 What the Scheme Offers

This enhanced scheme—originally envisioned as a policy—now provides:

  • ✅ One-time grant of ₹2,00,000 for eligible homestays
  • ✅ Marketing support & listing on Goa Tourism platforms
  • ✅ Training, exposure visits, and capacity building programs
  • ✅ Subsidised participation in domestic trade fairs
  • ✅ Gold/Silver quality classification for homestays
  • ✅ Simplified registration via http://www.goaonline.gov.in

📍 Who Can Apply?

Homestay operators in seven key talukas are eligible:
Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem

🧑‍🎓 Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities

Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that many homestays are women-led, and this scheme is designed to boost women entrepreneurship, aligning with the broader “Goa Beyond Beaches” campaign.

“This is a strong vote of confidence in community-based tourism and the women behind it,” said Khaunte.

🌏 A Vision for ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’

By promoting Goa’s interior villages, culture, and natural heritage, the scheme supports the state’s goal to diversify its tourism economy and relieve pressure on the coastal belt. Director of Tourism Kedar Naik emphasized that the scheme reflects a shift toward inclusive and regenerative tourism.

📝 How to Apply

Applicants can register online or offline, with provisions for inspections, reclassification, and compliance monitoring. The scheme is valid for five years, with potential extensions by the Department.

🚀 The Impact

The Homestay & BnB Scheme isn’t just about accommodations—it’s about:

  • Shaping a decentralized tourism model
  • Building economic independence for women
  • Creating authentic travel experiences
  • Preserving Goa’s cultural and natural heritage

🔗 Final Word

This initiative reaffirms Goa’s position as a leader in sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready tourism.