Social

From Aspiration to Achievement: Over 1 lac+ Youth Skilled by Sesa Goa


As India gears up to achieve its economic aim of being a $7 trillion economy by 2030, the manufacturing sector is identified as a key enabler for achieving this aim. The National Policy on Skill Development envisages skilling of over 500 million individuals to meet the demands of India’s growing economy. Due to the sustained efforts of multiple agencies employability among Indian graduates has increased by 7% this year, reaching 54.81% in 2025, up from 51.25% last year, reveals Wheebox ETS India Skills Report 2025, in collaboration with CII, Taggd, AICTE, and AIU.

With around 65% of the population >35 years, India Skills Report identifies the age group of 22-25 with the highest employability and in order to maximise this potential, skilling targets need to be met integrating the programmes being instituted by corporate or private entities. Prioritising youth skilling, Vedanta Sesa Goa has rolled out several initiatives in diverse streams such technical, digital, sports and entrepreneurial skills, leading to over 1lac+ youth benefitting for the same progressively.

The Sesa Technical School (STS) in Goa, established in 1994, has helped create an industry-ready workforce.In its 31 years, the STS has achieved a near 100% placement record with over 2,000 technically qualified youth powering India’s economic surge. Specially curated courses for women trainees have also been commenced with the Computer Operator & Programming Assistant (COPA) course building further on inclusivity aims. Scholarships are also extended to encourage & spur women participation.

The India Skills Report 2025 identifies that 50% of secondary and tertiary students are likely to benefit vocational training imparted to them. The STS has recently initiated short term vocational training courses, which are expected to create over 1000 skilled youth in three years.

Expressing his thoughts on the contribution of Sesa Goa in the field of skilling, Mr Navin Jaju, CEO, Sesa Goa said ‘’For a rapidly evolving and progressive India, a skilled workforce is essential to achieve the aims of #ViksitBharat. We,at Vedanta Sesa Goa, prioritise skilling of our youth through technical training, digital skilling, sports and vocational training as a key part of our core philosophy of ‘giving back’ meaningfully to the society. Our endeavours such as the Sesa Technical School, Sesa Football Academy, Vedanta Computer Centres and Labs and Vedanta Tailoring Centres have contributed to the skilling of over 1 lac youth since 2018.”

Mr Pradip Sarmokadam , Member Secretary Goa State Biodiversity Board & Chief Guest stated during a visit to the STS in Jun ’25 that “I would like to extend heartiest congratulations to STS & SFA for their contribution in shaping the futures of the youth from the villages & mining belt. I also compliment them for their efforts towards skilling the youth as upskilling is extremely important for building self-confidence”
As per Teuila Hampson, Chief People’s Officer, LinkedIn, by 2030 the skills needed to do work in India would have undergone a change by 64% with innovation , digital and AI-based skills driving the change. This necessitates that the digital divide is bridged and Sesa Goa with 8 Vedanta Computer Centres & 18 Vedanta Computer Labs has since 2018, ‘digitally’ enabled over 80000 students across locations. The emphasis on digital skilling recognises the decisive trends in skilling & aligns with the World Youth Skills Day 2025 with its theme – “Youth Skills for the Digital Era.”

Vedanta Sesa Goa’s focus on skilling extends to developing entrepreneurial and sporting skills.The Sesa Football Academy (SFA) in Goa has emerged as a powerful talent hub, with over 230+ graduates among whom are 11 who have donned India colours at the international level. The Vedanta Women’s League has had a massive impact on women’s football in Goa, with cumulatively over 1400 women players having found a platform to develop skills in the sport.

Aspects such as developing entrepreneurial skills as part of Project ‘Jeevika’ and mentoring youth through placement-linked skill training also form a vital part of Sesa Goa’s contribution to skilling.

A holistic approach to skilling will contribute to creating a powerful ecosystem of opportunity for India’s youth. Digital & AI fluency along with technical, vocational and other skills will ensure the fulfilling of the vision of a #ViksitBharat.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Panaji Declared Cleanest City in India (50k–1L Category) at Swachh Survekshan 2024–25


In a landmark moment for Goa, the city of Panaji has been honoured as the Cleanest City in India in the 50,000–1,00,000 population category at the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024–25. The awards ceremony took place at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, and the title was conferred by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji.

This prestigious award underscores the outstanding work done under the Swachh Bharat Mission in Panaji, including consistent efforts in door-to-door waste collection, scientific waste treatment, and attaining Garbage-Free City certification.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant expressed pride in Panaji’s achievement, stating it is a reflection of the government’s long-standing commitment to sustainable urban development. He congratulated all the officials, teams, and residents who made it possible.

Mayor Rohit Monserrate also shared his gratitude and reiterated the importance of citizen participation, enforcement of waste segregation, and the future goal of making Panaji a zero-waste city.

This achievement stands as a beacon of what committed governance, community effort, and a shared vision for cleanliness can accomplish. As Goa moves toward a Swachh and Viksit Bharat @2047, Panaji’s success sets a benchmark for other cities aiming to transform their urban landscapes.

The Panaji Municipal Corporation, along with active involvement from residents, sanitation workers, and various civil bodies, continues to innovate and inspire with best practices in waste management and sustainable city planning.

This award belongs to every Goan who believes in keeping our home beautiful, clean, and green.

Health

Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza Leads International Yoga Day Celebration, Emphasizes Wellness and Unity


Celebrating 11 Years of Good Governance with a Collective Commitment to a Healthier, Mindful, and United Viksit Bharat

MAPUSA, GOA — June 21, 2025
In a spirited observance of International Yoga Day, Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza led a vibrant and inclusive yoga session, organized by BJP Mapusa in collaboration with the Patanjali Yog Samiti, Bardez, to mark the 11 Years of Good Governance under visionary leadership.

Held in the heart of Mapusa, the event witnessed participation from local leaders, government employees, party karyakartas, and citizens, reinforcing the timeless Indian message of wellness, mindfulness, and unity through yoga.

🌿 A Morning of Asanas, Pranayama, and Meditation

The session included guided practices of yoga asanas, pranayama (breathwork), and meditation, promoting both physical vitality and inner calm. The collective effort reflected the shared values of discipline, health, and balance — qualities deeply rooted in India’s yogic heritage.

Chief yoga instructors Smt Rupali Yashwant Gaundalkar and Shri Virupaksh Betagiri from Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez led the participants through a rejuvenating routine, accessible to people of all age groups and fitness levels.

🗣️ Leadership Speaks: Vision for Viksit Bharat

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Joshua De Souza said:

“Yoga is not just a practice — it is a philosophy of life. As we celebrate 11 years of good governance, we must also nurture a culture of holistic wellness. A healthy body and a focused mind are the cornerstones of a strong and united Viksit Bharat.”

He thanked all participants and organizers, especially the Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez, for their contribution toward building a healthier community and strengthening the fabric of unity through shared practices like yoga.

🤝 Dignitaries and Organizers Present

Also present at the event were:

  • BJP Mapusa Mandal President: Shri Yogesh Khedekar
  • General Secretaries: Shri Hanumant Warang and Shri Yashwant Gaundalkar
  • Senior yoga instructors and wellness advocates
  • Local government employees and active BJP karyakartas

The event highlighted a strong sense of community and participation, embodying the spirit of “Yoga for All” and aligning with India’s broader mission of promoting well-being as a national priority.

🌍 A Vision Beyond Fitness

International Yoga Day 2025 in Mapusa wasn’t just about physical fitness — it was about inspiring a movement. The program encouraged citizens to incorporate yoga into their daily routines and emphasized how ancient Indian wisdom can address modern health challenges, both physically and mentally.

Human Interest

NSS Students Join Vedanta Sesa Goa in Promoting Environmental Sustainability


As part of its ongoing #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign, Vedanta Sesa Goa organized an educational visit to the Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines (SRM) for students of the National Service Scheme (NSS) from Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce (GCASC), Khandola, along with employees of the company. This visit aimed to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices & provided a valuable learning experience for all participants.

During the visit, the group explored the expanse of the SRM and discovered how an erstwhile while mine cluster has been sustainably reclaimed and converted into a verdant & lush ‘green-scape’ supporting endemic flora & fauna. The SRM today comprises the ‘Nakshatra Van’, a medicinal garden that combines the beauty of nature with the healing power of plants, and the ‘Charak Vatika’, another garden focused on traditional medicinal plants. The visiting group also familiarised themselves with the ‘Pisciculture Pond’, which promotes water conservation and sustainable fish farming, demonstrating Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to eco-friendly agricultural practices. The students were particularly impressed by the ‘Bamboo Pavilion’, an eco-friendly structure built using sustainable materials, which highlights the company’s innovative approach to creating green, sustainable spaces.

The students were introduced to the Sesa Football Academy and Sesa Technical School, both established on the reclaimed land utilising the one time workshop and other built up area at the erstwhile mine cluster. As part of this initiative, the NSS students from GCASC have volunteered to become #SesaGreenWarriors, and will play an active role in spreading awareness about eco-conscious behaviors and sustainable practices within their communities around Goa.
The SRM was developed by Sesa Goa in the late 90s when no regulatory or statutory requirements existed for mine closure, today the SRM has emerged as a mode mine closure project having earned accolades at national & international level. Recently, Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister for Coal & Mines, Govt of India, had visited the SRM and praised the effort having gone into the project, terming it as a role model for all mining companies.

Dr. Sapna, NSS In-Charge at GCASC, shared, “The visit to the Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines was an eye-opening experience for our students. It demonstrated how industry can contribute to environmental conservation and biodiversity restoration. By empowering our NSS students as #SesaGreenWarriors, we are equipping them with the knowledge and passion to drive positive change in their communities and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices.”

Mr Rajesh Kumar, Head ESG, Vedanta Sesa Goa, said, “The #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign is about more than just corporate responsibility; it’s about empowering the community to actively engage in the protection of our environment. By partnering with the GCASC NSS students and involving them in this transformative experience, we’re creating future leaders who will champion sustainability. The Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines is a testament to how industry and nature can work in harmony, and through initiatives like these, we reaffirm our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

Through such initiatives, Vedanta Sesa Goa continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The company’s efforts are part of a larger vision to contribute to Swayampurna Goa and #ViksitBharat, ensuring ecologically sustainable businesses are also economically viable. Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to innovative mining practices, renewable energy, and community engagement highlights the company’s role in driving a greener future for Goa, India, and the world.

Business

EDII Commemorates its 43rd Foundation Day


April 20, 2025: Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India celebrated its 43rd Foundation Day on 20th April 2025. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant addressed the audience virtually. Other luminaries at the event included Chief Guest, Dr. Piruz Khambatta, Chairman – Rasna Group & Honorary Consul General, South Korea (Gujarat); Guest of Honour, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Secretary (Industries), Goa; Shri B. S. Pai Angle, Managing Director, EDC Limited, Goa; Shri Dinesh Singh Rawat, Chief General Manager & Zonal Head (Ahmedabad Zone), IDBI Bank Limited, Ahmedabad (and Governing Board Member, EDII) and Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII Dignitaries from the Government, corporates, Industry associations and the academia also attended the event which focussed on establishing how entrepreneurship, startups and innovations were impacting the socio-economic growth of the country.

Dr. Pramod Sawant ji addressing virtually, complimented Gujarat for its unique growth model and credited EDII for propagating Entrepreneurship in the country and outside.

Hon’ble Chief Minister said, “Today India is pacing fast on the path of becoming a foremost startup nation under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji, and in this, EDII is significantly contributing. Goa looks forward to erecting a strong start-up oriented ecosystem that can walk hand in hand with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Gujarat’, seeking to accomplish the mandate of Viksit Goa.” The Chief Minister also referred to the notable work being done by the EDII – Goa Centre for promoting Entrepreneurship (inaugurated on 12th March 2024), which he mentioned was set up by EDII after he had initiated this need through a letter to Shri Bhupendra Patel ji, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Shri Dinesh Singh Rawat said, “EDII has been playing a key role in employing entrepreneurship to upgrade and uplift people from all sections of people.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Piruz Khambatta said, “Entrepreneurship has come far; it is hailed as a powerful tool for socio-economic growth.

The vision of Viksit Bharat is based on the pillars of entrepreneurship, skill development, technology, innovations and expanding markets. I commend EDII for envisioning growth on these factors, decades ago. Entrepreneurship and Skill Development will always be in need as it will continue to open the path of sustained growth for the country. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to EDII for training and inspiring people across sections and sectors to become entrepreneurs.”

Commenting on entrepreneurship and EDII- Goa Centre’s Contribution in Goa, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Secretary (Industries), Goa said, “Goa, with its unique blend of culture, creativity, and commerce, is fast emerging as one of the most progressive states. The EDII-Goa Centre, along with the EDC Ltd., is playing a vital role in fostering entrepreneurial spirit across all sections of society, which is essential for achieving balanced and holistic growth. The youth of the region are coming forward with their creative ideas, which are being carefully incubated and nurtured into enterprises. Entrepreneurship is fast becoming a preferred career option.”

In his address, Dr. Sunil Shukla traced the genesis of EDII and emphasized the potential of entrepreneurship. He said, “As EDII marks 43 years of fostering entrepreneurial spirit, we feel happy to witness how mindsets have got transformed into accepting that entrepreneurs are not just born, but they can be developed too, through well-conceived training interventions and counselling. EDII has always sought to promote inclusive growth on the premise of entrepreneurship, and it is great to see how this vision is getting realized. Entrepreneurship is pitted today as a development marvel and that gives us great satisfaction. We acknowledge the support of Government and corporates in our journey.”