HOUSE SALE TO MUSLIM DOCTOR

UTTAR Pradesh continues to target Muslims including professionals like doctors. There was a huge protest march in Muradabad in UP after a house in the Hindu majority colony was sold to a Muslim doctor by a female doctor colleague. The society which has 450 Hindu family demanded the cancellation of the sale deed.

FENGAL SIDE-EFFECTS

THERE was rain and thunderstorms in Goa on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 following the  warning issued by the IMD. It has been the pattern for lighting and thunderclouds every evening from the start of the week. There was light to moderate rainfall throughout the state due to the cyclonic storm Fengal which primarily affected Pondicherry and Chennai.

RBI GOVERNOR MORPHED

THE Reserve Bank of India is in a state of shock over the a video showing the RBI governor Das asking citizens to invest Rs12,000 in a cyber fraud scheme. The video went viral. We immediately recognised that it was a fake seeing it on Facebook.  Fraudsters have been using the images of a wide range of people from Mukesh Ambani to Bill Gates to Sachin Tendulkar and Sudha Murty to scam people through get rich quick investment schemes. This time it was audacity indeed to circulate a deep fake video of the governor of the RBI which imitated his photo and his voice.

Unlike the other victims of cyber frauds, the RBI has been very prompt in issuing advertisement in all daily newspapers clarifying that the governor has not invited anyone to invest in cyber investment scams. The irony is that the RBI has started a campaign asking investors to be very careful before responding to the videos promising quick rich scheme on social media.

DIGITALLY DISABLED

THOSE who are computer and smart phone-illiterate suffer from major disadvantages in the digital world. If you are a senior citizen whose fingers are crimpled by arthritis you cannot operate your smart phone quickly.  This means that you cannot withdraw money or make payments digitally. You also cannot book airline tickets or attend events like the International Film Festival or Serendipity.

Under the excuse of eliminating paper almost every event now requires you to book digitally. Serendipity has even done away with hardcopy ID cards and is instead issuing a mobile ID card. Obviously, we have to show our mobile at the entrance of any of the shows one may desire to see. This is likely to delay the start of the event given that it takes time to scan a mobile ID card.

We intend to start an organization for the protection of the digitally disabled. They also need digital crutches and wheelchairs just like the physically handicapped.

SEXTORTION OF NORTH GOA MLA

THE crime branch of the Goa police has arrested a native of Odisha, Kokush Rauta, for extorting Rs5 lakh from a North Goa MLA by morphing the MLA’s face in an obscene video. Apparently, the video shows the MLA with a women in a compromising position. The curious part is that the MLA concerned is reported to have paid Rs5 lakh so far to the Odisha agent. Rauta, the accused is reported to have demanded Rs5 crore from the MLA.

MLA WAR IN MANDREM

 A WAR has broken out between the supporters of former chief minister of Goa,  Laxmikant Paresekar, and the present MLA of Manderem Jeet Arolkar. A former Mandrem sarpanch, Mahesh Kondakar was brutally attacked by masked people when he was returning home on his scooter. Apparently, the goons told the former sarpanch Mahesh Kondakar not to associate with Michael Lobo.

Now a war has broken out because Michael Lobo wants to field his own candidate in Mandrem to extend his influence. Michael and wife Delilah already control the Calangute and the Siolim constituency. Michael wants to be the kingmaker after the next assembly election.

 STRANGLING WIFE NOT BRUTAL!

THE Bombay High Court in a strange judgment claimed that the act of strangling a pregnant wife to death does not qualify as an exceptionally violent or brutal crime. The court was hearing an appeal for remission for from Pradeep Singh Thakur, the policeman who reportedly killed his wife. And we are under the impression that killing a pregnant woman by a policeman should have attracted the death penalty.

CANKIDS KIDSCAN IGNITES HOPE FOR CANCER CARE

IN a significant step towards advancing care and survival rates for children with retinoblastoma, CanKids Kidscan — The National Society for Change for Childhood Cancer in India, hosted a dedicated awareness session and the 12th annual meeting of the Fight RB India Stakeholder Initiative at the International Society of Ocular Oncology (ISOO) 2024 Pre-Conference. This pivotal pre-conference was held at the Taj Cidade De Goa Horizon. The event marked a significant milestone in the Fight RB India Initiative’s remarkable journey, aligning its 2030 goals with the WHO’s Cure All Initiative for Childhood Cancer.

The sessions featured insights from leading experts, including Dr Amita Mahajan, Senior

Consultant and Clinical Lead, Paediatric Hematology-Oncology Service, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals; Dr Mohanrao Dessai, Chief Medical Officer, Non-Communicable Diseases Cell, Directorate of Health Services, Goa; Dr Sima Das, Director of Oculoplasty & Ocular Oncology Department at Dr Shroff Charity Eye Hospital; Poonam Bagai, Founder Chairman of CanKids KidsCan; and advocates like Ms Priti Rastogi, parent of RB survivor and Vikash Yadav, patient advocate, survivor, who shared compelling personal accounts.

Dr Santosh G Honavar, director of Medical Services at Centre for Sight Eye Hospital and

program secretary of ISOO 2024, remarked, “Retinoblastoma is one of the most treatable forms of childhood cancer, but early detection and equitable access to care remain critical. Events like these showcase the incredible progress we’ve made while reminding us that there is much more to achieve. Collaboration between medical experts, patient advocates, and policymakers will be key to closing this gap.”

Poonam Bagai, founder-chairperson of CanKids KidsCan, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Fight RB India Initiative is a testament to what can be accomplished when diverse stakeholders come together with a shared vision. Every child deserves the chance not just to survive but to thrive. By building partnerships, fostering innovation, and prioritizing patient needs, we are one step closer to creating a future where no family has to face retinoblastoma alone.”

The workshop, facilitated by CanKids Kidscan, highlighted key contributors to retinoblastoma care, who were honored, including Dr Santosh G Honavar, whose pioneering vision has set benchmarks in treatment, and Kanaka Sirpal and Siddhant Sirpal, whose impactful contributions have advanced early detection, therapies, and family support services. The workshop brought together NGOs, civil society organizations, medical experts, policy makers, parent-patient-survivor beneficiaries, and healthcare professionals. It fostered collaboration, strengthened NGO-government partnerships, and emphasized the power of collective action.

TOURISM TIES WITH KAZAKHSTAN

THE Department of Tourism, government of Goa, successfully hosted the Goa Roadshow 2024 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on November 29, 2024 at the Hotel Rahat Palace, Jambul Hall. This exclusive invite-only event marked a significant step in strengthening cultural and tourism exchanges between Goa and Kazakhstan, showcasing Goa’s unmatched allure as a premier travel destination. Director of Tourism Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, welcomed and felicitated Dr TV Nagendra Prasad, IFS, the Hon’ble Ambassador of India to the Republic of Kazakhstan, at the Goa Roadshow 2024 held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.  Rajesh Kale (Deputy Director),  Pradeep Binnar (Assistant Director), and GTB Member  Sujeet Kumar Dongre were also present at the event on December 3 2024.

The delegation also included  Carlos De Souza (MD Dsouza Group), Sheik Ismail (Senior Vice President, Concord Exotic Voyages),  Roussel De Miranda (proprietor, Verda De Miranda Resort) and  Xavier Peres (director, Speedbird Travels). They highlighted Goa’s vibrant tourism potential on an international stage, drawing attention to its unique offerings and its commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism.

Kazakstan ambassador to India stated “Today’s event focuses on showcasing Goa’s unique offerings and familiarizing local tour operators with its diverse attractions. This reflects the state of Goa’s commitment to excellence in tourism, further reinforced by its emphasis on regenerative tourism. I commend the government of Goa for organizing this event and actively promoting the state on such a significant platform. India is witnessing remarkable growth, and so is Kazakhstan, particularly with the vibrant youth population driving progress in both nations. We look forward to strengthening this relationship further. India has a wealth of technologies to offer, and we hope to see more collaborations between India and Kazakhstan in the near future.”

The event was a resounding success, with a vibrant gathering of travel enthusiasts, industry stakeholders, and tourism representatives. Commenting on the success of the event, Director Tourism Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, stated, “Goa offers much more through its diverse range of products, including Ayurveda, wellness, and the serene hinterlands. As a leader in yoga and similar wellness experiences, we aim to further elevate the state’s vision on the global stage. This event was meticulously planned, bringing together tour operators and other invitees to showcase Goa’s untapped potential—from heritage to natural wonders. With this initiative, we anticipate doubling the number of international tourists, focusing on both quality and quantity. Our journey now takes us to Poland to attract more visitors to Goa. Guided by the ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava, which translates to `Guests are God,’ we eagerly invite travellers to explore a unique side of Goa and immerse themselves in its offbeat adventures. Kazakhstan is a steady market for Goa’s tourism with many flights that have arrived to Goa in the past, and we are delighted to witness the enthusiasm of Kazakh travelers. This roadshow has further solidified our efforts to create stronger tourism links, and Goa Tourism invites more Kazakh tourists to Goa in the near future to explore our beautiful beaches, wellness and hinterland tourism and Goa’s heritage”

There was a Q&A session where the delegates addressed queries and challenges faced by Kazakh tourists. With the growing interest in Goa as a destination, the event is expected to significantly boost the number of Kazakh tourists visiting the state in the coming seasons.

ASSAM/NAGALAND FOUNDATION DAY

ON December 6, 2024 the Assam & Nagaland Foundation Day was celebrated in the presence of Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai at the Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, in Panjim. The event highlighted the theme of “Unity in Diversity,” underscoring the significant contributions of the North-Eastern states in the growth and development of India.

Governor Sreedharan Pillai, in his address, emphasized that the development of India remains incomplete without the active participation of the North-Eastern states. Reflecting on his experience working in Mizoram, he spoke about the critical role Assam and Nagaland play in the nation’s progress. He acknowledged the historical concerns surrounding both states but reaffirmed the unique relationship shared among all Indian states, emphasizing that the unity of the people is integral to the nation’s strength.

Governor Pillai also shared an exciting update about his forthcoming book, which has been translated from English to Assamese, and will soon be launched in Assam. He expressed his anticipation for the upcoming visit to Assam for the book launch. The event began with a warm welcome speech by MRM Rao, IAS, Secretary to the Governor, who reiterated that “Unity in Diversity” is the nation’s strength.

 Deepak Medhi, president of Assam Society Goa, highlighted the rich history and cultural significance of Assam and its importance to the nation. Alo Khing, president of Nagaland Association Goa, spoke passionately about the commitment of NAG towards the welfare and betterment of its people. Kim Hangsing compered the function with vote of thanks given by Sandesh Gadkari (deputy comptroller).

FESTA DO POVO: 2^ND EDITION

THE 2^nd edition of the popular community festival, Festa do Povo, returns to Panaji again, driving home the “of the people, by the people and for the people” philosophy in order to comprehensively promote Goan culture, environment, heritage and camaraderie. 

The festival is organised with the support of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and Imagine Panaji, along the mangrove lined pedestrian spine at Patto Plaza near Spaces building. Residents of different wards of the city living in heritage homes and heritage blocks are involved in the planning of Festa do Povo, to be held December 14 and 15, 2024 to celebrate Panjim.

Highlights of the event include the culinary delights of Goan-Portuguese, Hindu Saraswat and Muslim cuisine, a dedicated feni bar and beverage station promoting local to add to the festive vibe and other Goan events celebrating the  rich tapestry of Goan culture and tradition. On December 14 there will be  Shigmo dances, storytelling sessions about mythical rakhondars and the seven sisters (representations of Mother Earth) and children’s craft activities curated by Bookworm, a city-based community book-store for children.

Attendees may revel in performances like the Kaustubha Ballet, the popular Stuti Choir, the traditional dekhni dance and melodies by Sound of Music. Dec 15 will see brass band performances, percussions, carol singing by students from the Nirmala School. The Riffs and Crimson Tide bands promise to entertain all age groups, irrespective of whether they’re locals or Goan visitors or tourists.  

A highlight of this year’s Festa do Povo is an art exhibition featuring works by 20 artists, senior artists and students of art. Visitors may partake of intimate storytelling sessions at various locations spread across the festival area, bringing alive Goa’s folklore amidst the picturesque mangroves of Patto Plaza. This is an event to celebrate Panjim and life like never before, no entry fee, all are invited.