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Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera & Jollyboard Limited Donate Advanced Phacoemulsification Machine to South Goa District Hospital


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

In a significant step toward strengthening public healthcare in Goa, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, in partnership with Jollyboard Limited, has donated an advanced Phacoemulsification machine worth ₹25 lakh to the South Goa District Hospital in Margao. Another essential cataract equipment was also contributed through the Govindram Jolly Charitable Trust, further expanding the hospital’s ability to serve underprivileged patients. This initiative marks a meaningful advancement in the availability of high-quality cataract treatment, ensuring that individuals from economically weaker sections can benefit from free and advanced surgical care. Cataract remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in India, and access to cutting-edge technology such as this machine can dramatically reduce wait times, improve outcomes, and restore vision for countless individuals.

Rtn. Tanvi Attreya Sawant, Immediate Past President of Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, emphasized the social impact of the donation, stating that the initiative would help restore independence and improve the quality of life for people across the state. For many families, the ability to access free, high-precision cataract surgery is transformative, removing financial barriers that often delay or prevent critical treatment. With this latest contribution, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera and Jollyboard Limited have together donated medical equipment worth ₹1.28 crore to the South Goa District Hospital, reflecting an ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and uplifting communities.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Rtn. Rashmi Jolly, Chairperson & Executive Director of Jollyboard Limited; Rtn. Vinaykumar Pai Raikar, Past District Governor RID 3170; Rtn. Lenny Dcosta, DGE RID 3170; and Dr. Rupa Naik, Director of the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Goa. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative effort in addressing healthcare challenges and advancing public welfare. The initiative stands as a powerful example of how partnerships between NGOs, CSR bodies, and healthcare institutions can create long-lasting impact. Through continued dedication to community service, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera continues to inspire hope and drive positive change across Goa.

Events in Goa

GCCI Women’s Wing Hosts ‘Diwali Dil Se’ Festive Bazaar at Mall de Goa


Porvorim, October 14, 2025 — The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Women’s Wing, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, has brought festive cheer to Goa with the “Diwali Dil Se” Festive Bazaar, inaugurated at Mall de Goa, Porvorim. The vibrant three-day event, running from October 14 to 16, 2025, showcases the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Goan women.

The festive bazaar was inaugurated by Ms. Deepali Naik, Project Director, District Rural Development Agency (South), who lauded the initiative as a meaningful platform for women to display and sell their handmade and locally crafted products.

Ms. Sandra Fernandes, Chairperson of the GCCI Women’s Wing, warmly welcomed the stall owners and participants, expressing gratitude to Ms. Lavanya Shet, GCCI WW Committee Member, for leading the initiative to provide free stalls for women entrepreneurs.

“This event is more than a marketplace — it’s a celebration of creativity, empowerment, and community,” said Ms. Fernandes. “We are proud to offer women a platform to grow their businesses and connect directly with customers during the festive season.”

Rtn Jeet Tolani, President of the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, commended the collaboration and applauded the commitment of the GCCI Women’s Wing in fostering inclusive growth.

The Chief Guest, Ms. Deepali Naik, encouraged the entrepreneurs to continue innovating and expanding their ventures, wishing them success and resilience.

The event also saw active participation from Co-Chairperson Ms. Poonam Ajgaonkar, who proposed the Vote of Thanks, and Ms. Gouri Joshi, who compered the programme with warmth and enthusiasm.

Committee members present included Ms. Simran Dhond, Ms. Swatee Rane, Ms. Adbrona Valadares, Ms. Clare Marchon, and Ms. Melane Rodrigues, along with Rtn Rosevelt Valadares.

“Diwali Dil Se” continues through the weekend, offering visitors a delightful festive shopping experience featuring home décor, traditional crafts, jewelry, sweets, and artisanal Diwali gifts — all crafted by Goan women entrepreneurs.

As the lights of Diwali illuminate Goa, this bazaar stands as a shining example of women-led enterprise and community collaboration — truly, Diwali Dil Se.

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Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera Empowers Children with Disabilities


In a remarkable display of community service and dedication, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera has inaugurated a state-of-the-art infrastructure and Early Intervention Centre at Aastha’s Anand Niketan, a school for children with disabilities in Goa.

This ambitious project was made possible through a Global Grant of $99,000 (Rs. 82,00,000) secured by the Rotary Club in partnership with International Rotary Clubs and The Rotary Foundation. Additionally, the club has partnered with Golden Peace Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. to establish an Early Intervention Centre through Rotary India Foundation, valued at $40,000 (Rs. 35,00,000).

The newly inaugurated infrastructure includes personalized, disability-friendly classroom furniture, smart digital boards, wheelchairs, and state-of-the-art A/V equipment. This modern setup will significantly enhance the learning experience for over 200 special children and provide advanced training to special educators and parents.

The Rotary Club’s initiative aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers children with disabilities to reach their full potential. By providing access to cutting-edge technology and specialized resources, the club is bridging the gap in education and healthcare for these children.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Rtn. Sharad Pai, District Governor RID 3170, PDG Rtn. Alka Khanolkar, and Mr. Rahul Khetrapal, CSR Partner. The event was a testament to the power of community service and collaboration.

“We are thrilled to have partnered with Aastha’s Anand Niketan to create a world-class infrastructure for children with disabilities,” said President Rtn. Tanvi Attreya Sawant. “Through this grant, we are not only improving infrastructure but also building a brighter future for these children, a future where their potential is recognized, nurtured, and allowed to flourish.”

The Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera’s commitment to empowering children with disabilities is a shining example of the impact that community service can have on lives. As the club continues to work tirelessly towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society, we can only applaud their efforts and look forward to seeing the positive change they bring about.

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Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera Celebrates World Rotary Day with a Life-Changing Project


In celebration of World Rotary Day, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera embarked on a remarkable journey to transform the lives of the Vanamare tribal community in Kudal. On February 23, 2025, the club, in collaboration with RC Kudal, launched a project to support the Shoshit Mukti Abhiyan Sanstha – A Home for Tribal Children.

The project aimed to provide better living conditions for 84 tribal children. To achieve this, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera undertook several initiatives:

  • Completed Shelter Home: The club donated funds to complete an unfinished shelter home, providing flooring, cement, doors, and windows.
  • Safe Drinking Water: A borewell was constructed to ensure access to safe drinking water.
  • Comfort and Dignity: Bunk beds and mattresses were donated to provide comfort and dignity to the children.

This project was made possible by the generosity of our donors, who contributed a total of ₹5,75,560/-. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to:

  • Rupesh & Gauri Gauns (₹2,04,960/-)
  • Rtn. Bhakti Dempo (₹1,00,000/-)
  • Rtn. Vishnu Tarkar (₹50,000/-)
  • Rtn. Nitin Kenkre (₹10,000/-)
  • Friend of Rotary (₹1,00,000/-)
  • Rtn. Maithili & Ann Rahul Nadkarni (₹61,000/-)
  • Rtn. Tanvi & Ann. Attreya Sawant (₹50,000/-)

This project is a testament to the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera’s commitment to integrating marginalized communities into the mainstream. By providing better living conditions and access to basic necessities, we are ensuring a brighter, more secure future for these children.

At the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, we believe that together, we can create hope, uplift communities, and make a difference. Join us in our mission to transform lives and empower communities.