National

Goa’s Nirbhay Bhav Group Secures 3rd Place at National Performing Arts Championship 2025


In a shining moment for Goa’s vibrant cultural scene, the Nirbhay Bhav Group achieved a remarkable 3rd position at the prestigious National Performing Arts Championship 2025. Held on the 5th of October in the culturally rich city of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, the event saw participation from top-performing teams across India including Haryana, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand.

Representing Goa, the team stood out with their passionate performance and dedication to the arts. Under the inspiring leadership of Dhiraj Naik, Nirbhay Bhav brought not just talent but discipline, originality, and a deep-rooted connection to cultural heritage to the national platform. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the group and the state, adding yet another feather to Goa’s artistic cap.

The team’s journey doesn’t end here. Buoyed by their success and national recognition, the Nirbhay Bhav Group is now setting its sights on participating in upcoming national and international performing arts championships. Their vision is clear—to carry the spirit and talent of Goan culture beyond borders and onto the global stage.

This victory is not just a celebration of a performance—it’s a testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and the universal language of art that connects us all.

Sports

Goa Sends 35 Athletes to 14th National Modern Pentathlon Biathle & Triathle Championship


A 35-member strong team of athletes from the Modern Pentathlon Association of Goa (MPAG) is all set to represent the state at the 14th Modern Pentathlon Biathle & Triathle National Championship, scheduled to take place in Indore, Madhya Pradesh from October 4 to 7, 2025. The contingent includes participants from various age categories who have been rigorously training under experienced coaches to compete at the national level.

To mark the occasion, a formal farewell ceremony was held today at the DSYA office in Panaji. The event was graced by key officials including Shri. Sanjiv Gadkar (IAS), Secretary, Government of Goa, Dr. Ajay Gaude, Director of Sports & Executive Director of SAG, Smt. Sandhya Paliekar, Secretary, MPAG, Shri. Virendra Majik, Convenor, MPAG, and coaching staff Shri. Kirtan Vaiz, Shri. Alok Kothambikar, and Coach Nikita Naik. Managers Ishita Paliekar and Filda Eldro will accompany the team to the national event.

The event saw dignitaries offering their best wishes to the athletes, encouraging them to showcase their dedication, sportsmanship, and team spirit. They lauded the efforts of MPAG in nurturing young talent and promoting the modern pentathlon disciplines—particularly biathle and triathle, which combine swimming, running, and shooting in a dynamic sporting format.

The participation in this national championship is a significant opportunity for Goan athletes to shine on the national stage, gain exposure, and further develop their skills. It also reflects the growing prominence of modern pentathlon as a competitive sport in Goa and the efforts being made at grassroots and state levels to support and grow this discipline.

Team Goa departs with the support and blessings of the state’s sports leadership, carrying the hopes of a proud sporting community.

Sports

Goans Hockey Junior Women’s Team Shines with Back-to-Back Wins at 15th Hockey India Junior Nationals 2025


The pride of Goa is rising — and this time, it’s with sticks in hand and hearts full of determination! The Goans Hockey Junior Women’s team is off to an electrifying start at the 15th Hockey India Junior Women’s National Championship 2025 in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh.

🏑 Match 1: Goa vs Jammu & Kashmir

📅 Date: 1st August 2025
🕠 Time: 5:30 AM

In a tightly fought contest, Goa opened their campaign with a gritty 2-1 victory. The momentum was set early with Prachi Yadav scoring the opening goal at the 16th minute, followed by Rubi Rathore at the 19th minute. Despite a goal from the opposition in the second half, the Goan girls defended with heart and composure to seal the win.

🏑 Match 2: Goa vs Dadra & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu

📅 Date: 2nd August 2025
🕠 Time: 5:30 AM

Expected to be a tougher clash, this game turned into a showcase of Goa’s dominance. Prachi Yadav struck early at the 4th minute, followed by a brilliant finish from Priyanka Balmik at the 10th minute. Priyanka added two more goals at the 25th and 59th minutes, completing a spectacular hat-trick. The final score: 4-0 in favour of Goa.

💪 Teamwork, Grit & Glory

With two back-to-back wins, Goa now tops their pool — and is quickly becoming one of the most exciting teams in the tournament. The players have shown not only individual brilliance but exceptional teamwork, composure, and fighting spirit.

As the championship continues, all eyes will be on Goa. One thing is clear — these young women are not just playing to win; they’re playing to inspire.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Sports

Goa Wushu Team gear up for 38th National Games in Dehradun


The Goa Wushu team is all set to make its mark at the prestigious 38th National Games being held in Dehradun from January 28- February 14,2025. Representing Goa in this dynamic sport are talented athletes Siya Pednekar, Nurjohoon Ahmed, Janiva Fernandes, and Junita Ekka, under the able guidance of their coach, Jorvalinn Fernandes.

Adding to Goa’s pride, Mr. Paulo Killman Fernandes has been appointed as the official representative for the sport of Wushu at the Games.

The Association of Goa Wushu has expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and determination to deliver stellar performances at this esteemed national platform.

The National Games offer a great opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and bring laurels to their state. The Goa Wushu team’s participation underlines the growing recognition of the sport and the talent emerging from the state.

The entire Goan community wishes the team and officials the very best for the Games.