Tag: Sattari

Social

Threads of Empowerment: JCI Sanquelim Hosts 10th Aari Workshop in Sattari

Tanisha Cardozo

In a continued effort to promote skill development and empower local communities, JCI Sanquelim successfully concluded its 10th Aari Workshop at Bhirondem in Sattari. The initiative marked yet another milestone in nurturing creativity and self-reliance among women in the region.

The six-day workshop saw the participation of 10 women, who were trained in the intricate and delicate art of Aari designing. Known for its detailed embroidery techniques, Aari work requires precision, patience, and creativity—skills that the participants actively developed over the course of the training. More importantly, the workshop provided them with a strong foundation and the confidence to pursue Aari art professionally, should they choose to explore it as a source of livelihood.

This initiative was conducted under the KAABIL Project of JCI India, a nationwide program focused on enhancing employability and empowering individuals through practical skill-building activities. Through such programs, JCI organizations across the country continue to make a meaningful impact at the grassroots level.

The workshop was led by JC Smita Gawalkar, whose expertise and hands-on guidance played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the training. Her approach not only focused on technical skills but also encouraged participants to believe in their creative potential.

The certification ceremony was held in the presence of JC Asmita Gauns, President of JCI Sanquelim, and JC Nikita Desai, who applauded the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm throughout the workshop.

A special note of gratitude was extended to Mrs. Rajana Rane, Panch Member of Bhirondem Panchayat, for generously providing the venue and supporting the initiative. Her contribution helped create a conducive environment for learning and collaboration.

The success of this workshop highlights the importance of community-driven initiatives in creating opportunities and fostering independence. With each such effort, JCI Sanquelim continues to inspire change—one skill, one individual, and one community at a time.

Social

Goa Moves Toward Zero Waste with Godrej Consumer Products’ Innovative Programme

rencygomes02

Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Goa, February 19, 2026: Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant tourism, Goa faces a unique sustainability challenge, particularly in its rural and semi-urban areas. Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL) is addressing this gap with its Integrated Waste Management Programme in the Talukas of Bicholim and Sattari, implementing long-term, community-driven waste solutions.


Partnering with Sampurn(e)arth Environment Solutions, the Mineral Foundation of Goa, municipal councils, and village panchayats, GCPL’s initiative has diverted more than 5,800 metric tonnes of waste from landfills and recycled over 490 metric tonnes of low-value plastics, including commonly discarded milk packets.

Historically, waste collection in these regions was inconsistent, with limited source segregation and informal workers operating without adequate safety or social security. GCPL’s program introduced a complete system—from door-to-door collection to material recovery at the Bicholim MRF, secondary sorting at Harvalem, and recycling at Pissurlem—ensuring accountability at every stage.

Technology plays a key role, with QR-code–based monitoring enabling local authorities to track collection coverage and segregation in real time. Community engagement, through household visits, school programs, cultural outreach, and exposure visits, has helped make waste segregation a daily habit.

A strong focus on waste worker welfare is another highlight. Over 1,300 workers are provided personal protective equipment, enrolled in social security schemes, trained in safe handling, and organised into Self-Help Groups, promoting dignity, financial inclusion, and long-term livelihood security.

The Milk Packet Collection Initiative engaged students as sustainability ambassadors, collecting nearly 140 kg of used milk packets between March 2024 and July 2025, demonstrating the impact of everyday actions on environmental change.

Pakzan Dastoor, Head – Sustainability & CSR, Godrej Industries Group, said, “With over 5,800 tonnes of solid waste diverted from landfills, our Goa initiatives reflect that sustainable change happens when infrastructure, citizen participation, and worker welfare come together.”

Omkar Manjrekar, Block Development Officer, Bicholim Taluka, added, “QR Code–based waste management brings smart accountability to every doorstep, strengthening monitoring and improving overall collection efficiency.”

By integrating infrastructure, behaviour change, and social inclusion, GCPL’s initiatives in Goa set a benchmark for corporate-driven sustainability, demonstrating how companies can foster environmental stewardship, accountability, and community-led transformation.

Godrej Consumer Products is a leading emerging markets company committed to health, beauty, and sustainability. As part of the Godrej Industries Group, it operates in over 1.4 billion households globally, leading in household insecticides, hair care, soaps, air fresheners, and wet tissues. Through its Good & Green and DEI initiatives, GCPL works toward creating a more inclusive and environmentally responsible future.

Social

Organ Donation Awareness Talk Held for Lokmat Saki Members at Amshekar Hospital, Valpoi

allycaralgoa

An organ donation awareness talk was organised for members of Lokmat Saki at Amshekar Hospital in Valpoi, Sattari, Goa, on December 19, 2025. The session was conducted by Gabriel Pereira, an organ donation ambassador associated with the MOHAN Foundation, following an invitation extended by Ms Geeta Daawan.

Gabriel Pereira shared that the initiative was planned after his interaction with Ms Daawan during the Valpoi Marathon earlier in the month. She informed him that Dr Ashok Amshekar, founder of the Valpoi Marathon and proprietor of Amshekar Hospital, commemorates his birthday every year by organising social initiatives such as blood donation camps and had also welcomed an organ donation awareness programme at the hospital.

Before the talk, a short film on organ donation produced by ROTTO–SOTTO, Mumbai, was screened to help participants better understand the process and significance of organ donation.

A highlight of the programme was the testimony of Mr Umesh Dhavalikar, a liver transplant recipient, who shared his emotional journey and the gift of life he received from his sister. He spoke about representing Goa and India in national and international transplant games, inspiring the audience with his resilience and gratitude.

During the interactive session, Gabriel explained the current status of organ transplantation in Goa, stating that kidney and corneal transplants are presently carried out in the state. He noted that eight brain-dead declarations have enabled 16 kidney transplants locally, while other organs such as hearts, lungs, and livers are allocated through the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO). He further explained the role of the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO) in managing organ allocation within states.

Approximately 30 informational flyers addressing frequently asked questions about organ donation were distributed during the event, resulting in seven attendees pledging to become organ donors.

At the conclusion of the programme, Gabriel Pereira expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Ms Geeta Daawan, Dr Ashok Amshekar, and Mr Umesh Dhavalikar for their support and commitment towards spreading awareness about organ donation and saving lives.

Social

Panchgram Vikas Samitee Expands with New Multipurpose Cooperative Credit Society Branch at Honda

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Panchgram Vikas Samitee’s Multipurpose Cooperative Credit Society has taken another step forward in strengthening Goa’s cooperative movement with the launch of its new branch at Honda, Sattari. The inauguration took place in the presence of ZP Member Shri Sagun Wadkar, Sarpanch Shri Shivdas Madkar, Panchayat Members of Honda, Asst. Registrar Shri Harish Naik, and Chairman Shri Datta Gawas.

This new branch marks the second in Sattari, following the successful establishment of the first in 2018. Over the years, the Society has demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, when it continued to support its members and contribute to the local economy.

What began as a cooperative with 800 members in 2018 has now grown to over 2,500 members — a reflection of the increasing trust, unity, and confidence within the community. The Society’s focus on financial inclusion, cooperative values, and self-reliance has made it a cornerstone of rural empowerment in the region.

The newly inaugurated credit counter at Honda is designed to make financial services more accessible to residents, allowing them to save valuable time, access credit facilities with ease, and avail of government and cooperative schemes without having to travel long distances. By bringing these services closer to the people, the Society aims to strengthen the local economy and support sustainable growth across Sattari.

With this expansion, the Panchgram Vikas Samitee reaffirms its commitment to serving the people of Goa and fostering a strong, cooperative-led model of community development rooted in trust, service, and progress.

Human Interest

Griha Mahanand Paryekar Shines with Second Prize at National Bharatnatyam Competition

Tanisha Cardozo

Sattari’s very own Miss Griha Mahanand Paryekar, daughter of Shri Mahanand Paryekar (RFO) and Adv. Smt. Sharmila Paryekar from Honda, has achieved national recognition by securing the Second Prize in the National Level Bharatnatyam Solo Dance Competition (Senior Category) at the Goa Cultural Carnival Season 2.

The prestigious event, organized by Nritharchana in association with the All India Dancers Association, brought together talented dancers from across the country to celebrate the beauty of Indian classical dance. Amidst fierce competition, Griha’s performance stood out for its grace, precision, and expressive storytelling—hallmarks of the Bharatnatyam tradition.

Her achievement is a testament to her dedication, passion, and years of disciplined training. Beyond the stage, this milestone also highlights the growing cultural prominence of Sattari and the rich artistic spirit thriving in Goa’s heartland.

Family, friends, and the local community have expressed immense pride in her accomplishment, seeing her as a beacon of inspiration for young dancers pursuing excellence in classical arts. With this recognition, Griha continues to carry forward the legacy of Indian classical dance, representing Goa on a national platform with poise and brilliance.