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Modi unveils projects worth over Rs 1330 crore in Goa

Achieving Aatma Nirbharta in energy requirements has been a key focus area of the Prime Minister. In yet another step in this direction, India Energy Week 2024 will be held from February 6-9 in Goa…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday participated in ‘Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa 2047’ programme and inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of projects worth over Rs 1330 crore.

The Prime Minister inaugurated the permanent campus of the National Institute of Technology Goa to the nation.

The newly built-up campus has various facilities such as tutorial complex, departmental complex, seminar complex, administrative complex, hostels, health centre, staff quarters, amenity centre, sports ground and other utilities to cater to the needs of students, faculty and staff of the Institute, the Prime Minister Office stated.

Prime Minister also dedicated the new campus of the National Institute of Watersports. The institute will introduce 28 tailor-made courses aimed at fostering the development of watersports and water rescue activities catering to both the public and the armed forces.

Prime Minister inaugurated a 100 TPD Integrated Waste Management Facility in South Goa. It has been designed for the scientific treatment of 60 TPD wet waste and 40 TPD dry waste, while also featuring a 500 KW solar power plant that generates surplus electricity, the PMO stated.

Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for Passenger Ropeway, along with associated tourism activities, connecting Panaji and Reis Magos. The foundation stone for the construction of a 100 MLD Water Treatment Plant in South Goa will be laid by him.

He also distributed appointment orders to 1930 new government recruits across various departments under Rozgar Mela and handed over sanction letters to beneficiaries of various welfare schemes.

Modi also inaugurated the ONGC Sea Survival Centre. The Centre has been developed as a one-of-a-kind Integrated Sea Survival Training Centre to advance the Indian sea survival training ecosystem to global standards.

The centre is expected to train 10,000-15,000 personnel annually. Exercises in simulated and controlled harsh weather conditions shall enhance the Sea Survival skills of trainees and thus potentially increase the chances of safe escape from real-life disasters.

Later in the day, he will inaugurate India Energy Week 2024 and will participate in the Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa 2047 programme.

Achieving Aatma Nirbharta in energy requirements has been a key focus area of the Prime Minister. In yet another step in this direction, India Energy Week 2024 will be held from February 6-9 in Goa.

It will be India’s largest and only all-encompassing energy exhibition and conference, bringing together the entire energy value chain, and will serve as a catalyst for India’s energy transition goals. Prime Minister will hold a roundtable with Global oil and gas CEOs and experts.

Encouraging and fostering startups and integrating them into the energy value chain will be an important focus for India Energy Week 2024. It is expected to witness the participation of around 17 Energy ministers from different countries, 35,000+ attendees and more than 900 exhibitors. It will have six dedicated country pavilions – Canada, Germany, Netherlands, Russia, the UK and the US.

A special Make in India Pavilion is also being organised to showcase innovative solutions that Indian MSMEs are spearheading in the energy sector.

Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of projects worth over Rs 1,330 crores in the public programme in Goa.

Prime Minister will inaugurate the permanent campus of the National Institute of Technology Goa to the nation. The newly built-up campus has various facilities such as tutorial complex, departmental complex, seminar complex, administrative complex, hostels, health centre, staff quarters, amenity centre, sports ground and other utilities to cater to the needs of students, faculty and staff of the Institute. (ANI)

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Goa Lite Blogs Sports

Goan cyclist rode 1200km TriGoa Atal Sethu to Ram Sethu LR ride on a bicycle

Dattaraj Lawande completed a grueling cycle ride of 1200 km and is among 17 riders to have completed this feat. Rahul Laud reports

Thirty-nine-year-old, Dattaraj Jaiprakash Lawande, is a  married businessman – a member of the Global Chamber of Saraswat Entrepreneurs born and brought up in Panaji, Goa. Dattaraj who is into his family business of Renting out Power Gensets across Goa, Lawande Power Rentals chose to take a long bicycle ride – a 1200kms LRM ride organized for Audax India Randonneurs (AIR) that Represents Audax Club Parisien (ACP) under the able supervision of TriGoa Randonneurs representing Audax India. This 1200kms LRM ride started at 6 am on 26th January’2024 from Probyk, Goa’s favorite cycle shop, and had to complete the entire ride within 90 hrs I.e. by midnight on 29th January.

Dattaraj managed to finish the ride by 5:45 pm on 29th January which was within 84 hrs. This 1200kms TriGoa Atal Sethu to Ram Sethu LR ride had  22 participants, and 17 have managed to finish the ride and they are awaiting results for who all have been granted the LR Title!  He was seated on the saddle for hours together, pedaling at a steady pace, with saddle sores, muscle cramps, and body fatigue, managing on sleep with limited time to Eat and sleep  he completed the ride, Dattaraj pointed out.

He is inspired and fascinated by his friends at Panjim Cycling Club, Goa, and FIT Swaggers Club, Goa, especially Ganesh Pai Vernekar (Bhushan Bhai) and Mr. Prasad Pangam who played key roles, his parents, wife, and daughter are his strongest support and the mental support from a rock-solid group of close friends. Since his childhood, Dattaraj reminisced, he always loved “adventure”. He has been riding on bicycles during school and as he grew up fascinated by cars and bikes as any other average kid would usually be. He was an average student in studies and sports when schooling but had a liking for adventure and high-risk sports and he was sure about trying himself in each area when life would permit him. His parents encouraged and supported him consistently, he said.

He took up motorsports as a sport, participated in state and national off-road competitive events, and managed to leave his mark there until the year 2018! He got into cycling as a sport a few months before the Covid pandemic when his friends introduced him to Audax events, BRM, SRs, and LRs. He managed to participate in most cycling events across Goa. He has completed 2 each of 200, 300, 400, and 600 km BRM rides in one single year and was granted double SR title in the single year 2023.

BREVETS DE RANDONNEUR MONDIAUX (BRMs) are rides of fixed distances that are to be completed within specified time limits. Randonneur events are 200 km, 300 km, 400 km, 600 km, 1000 km, and 1200 km. The longer events are held over multiple days.

Dattaraj says, “ Cycling makes me happy, and keeps me fit physically and mentally. It increases my physical strength and makes me feel good. Cycling gets me into the company of good inspiring friends and makes me a part of a community. Above all keeps my mind busy.”

A randonneuring event is called a randonée or brevet (pronounced breh-VAY), and a rider who has completed a 200 km event is called a randonneur. The most common type of event is a brevet, referring to the certificate or card (called brevet in French) the participant receives signifying completion of a particular distance.

Randonneur events are 200 km, 300 km, 400 km, 600 km, 1000 km, and 1200 km. The longer events are held over multiple days, he stated.  Along the course, you check in at various places to show that you completed the entire course. During longer events, sleep breaks are planned at intermediate points. In the end, you get officially homologated and have the option to request a medal if you complete the course within the time limit. If you like going fast, there usually is a group who try to see how quickly they can complete the course, Dattarj explained. But the results are listed alphabetically, and everybody gets the same medal, so it is not a race. Here long rides are challenging for anybody, but every finisher is a winner, with a sportsman spirit he concluded.

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Goa Lite Blogs

Echoes of Earth: Goa Set to Host India’s Greenest Festival

The festival layout for Echoes of Earth is grounded in Circular Design, with festival assets crafted from old, discarded, and repurposed materials from prior editions, exemplifying a commitment to sustainability…reports Asian Lite News

Echoes of Earth, India’s greenest festival promoting sustainability and conservation through art, culture, and music, is set to take place in Goa starting February 2 to 4.

Goa represents a unique canvas for Echoes, offering an opportunity to integrate the festival with the biodiversity, diverse culture, and traditional art forms. In continuation with our theme ‘Ensemble of the Wild, Echoes aims to raise awareness and celebrate the thriving ecosystems within the region, extending the conversation about Goa beyond its beaches and highlighting its rich wildlife through the mediums of music and art.

Roshan Netalkar, Founder & the Festival Director of Echoes of Earth, expressed his vision for the festival, stating,“having grown up in the western ghats, I’ve observed the spotlight often bypasses the rich biodiversity of the region. Echoes of Earth’s arrival in Goa aims to redirect attention to these lesser-known ecological wonders. Music and Art hold immense potential to spread a larger message through communities – in Goa with the support of credible partners like Goa Tourism Board, we are confident of creating impact. towards environmental awareness, fostering responsible tourism, and resource conservation. We believe that, together with our partners, we can make a meaningful difference and inspire positive action for the community and the environment in Goa.”

In Goa, the festival will partner with local eco warriors, grass root level organizations and individuals aiming top reserve the biodiversity of Goa in addition to the Government of Goa to power the cause. The intent is to see Goa in a whole new light and experience it like never before to truly create a festival experience that is curated for art and music enthusiasts, nature lovers, and the environmentally conscious alike.

A Celebration of Art, Culture, Music, Environment, and Lifestyle

The Festival, hosted in an expansive 100-acre stretch of lush landscape, will host over 40 international and local artists performing on three exquisitely designed stages over three immersive days. Echoes will also feature 20+ art installations, educational workshops, cultural folk performances, and even a flea market featuring sustainable brands.

In homage to the Western Ghats, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, the festival will emphasize the interconnectedness of flora, fauna, habitats, and ecosystems through its conceptual theme in Goa, ‘Ensemble of the Wild’. Additionally, the festival will collaborate with the Goa Tourism Board, Goa State Biodiversity Board, WWF- INDIA, and Felis Films to celebrate and assist the efforts of organizations and individuals preserving the rich, delicate biodiversity of the Western Ghats.

Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics & Communication and Printing & Stationery, Government of Goa said, “We extend a warm welcome to Echoes of Earth as it finds a new home in the landscapes of Goa. Embracing responsible tourism is not just a trend but a necessity, and we applaud initiatives that seamlessly blend music, art and conservation. Such festivals play a pivotal role intransforming into an integral part of the local community. When tourists become stakeholders, they inherently share the responsibility of safeguarding the local well-being. This relationship enhances the economic prosperity of the local community while protecting the integrity of our environment. As we open our doors, let’s celebrate conscious living and set the stage for a more responsible era in Goa.”

Circular Design, Regeneration, and Sustainable Practices

The festival layout for Echoes of Earth is grounded in Circular Design, with festival assets crafted from old, discarded, and repurposed materials from prior editions, exemplifying a commitment to sustainability. As a no-plastic and no-flexfestival, Echoes of Earth will feature hand-painted signage on repurposed cardboard and wood, bamboo structures for festival facilities, and visually striking art installations made from recycled and upcycled media such as jute, plastic scraps, and scrap metal.

Echoes of Earth invites art and music enthusiasts, nature lovers, and the environmentally conscious to join this unique celebration of the Western Ghats and Goa’s rich biodiversity. Experience the magic of eclectic music, art, sustainable practices, and the beauty of nature like never before.

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Goa India News

‘Bharat Through the Lens’ Exhibition Opens in Goa

The exhibition’s uniqueness lies in its extensive collection of objects, offering a comprehensive understanding of Athaiya’s immense contribution to Indian cinema and fashion…reports Asian Lite News

The much anticipated “Bharat Through the Lens of Bhanu Athaiya” exhibition is set to open its doors from December 7th to 31st at Aguad, Candolim in Goa. Organized by Princeps, this exhibition offers a captivating glimpse into the life and works of Bhanu Athaiya, the revolutionary costume designer and the first Indian to win an Oscar Award.

Visitors will encounter a rich display of Athaiya’s thoroughly preserved legacy spanning eight decades. From stunning costumes and sketchbooks to family heirlooms and early artwork, this exhibition showcases the diverse aspects of her illustrious career.

Curated by Princess Brijeshwari Kumari Gohil, the exhibition dives into Athaiya’s journey from Kolhapur’s princely state to her groundbreaking role in the Progressive Artists’ Group in Bombay. It unveils her evolution as the most favored and loved costume designer in Hindi cinema, portraying her profound love and vision for India through different phases of her life.

Princess Gohil highlighted, “This exhibition pays tribute to Athaiya’s lasting impact on Indian fashion. Her designs have influenced trends that resonate even today. Athaiya was an influencer ahead of her time, creating clothes that symbolize elegance and grace, setting a new standard in terms of fashion”

The exhibition’s uniqueness lies in its extensive collection of objects, offering a comprehensive understanding of Athaiya’s immense contribution to Indian cinema and fashion. Additionally, talks by prominent personalities like Zeenat Aman, sharing their experiences with the designer, promise an intimate glimpse into Athaiya’s legacy.

This exhibition aims to honor Athaiya’s legacy by ensuring her invaluable contributions are remembered and celebrated. It serves as a tribute to her unparalleled achievements and influence in shaping Indian fashion.

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Food Goa London News

Goan drink ‘Feni’ to hit UK shores soon; London-based Goan to enter beverage trade

It’s been a culmination of months of getting the product into the UK and soon will be available in Europe, reports Rahul Laud

Gianna’s Cashew Apple Feni is due to be launched in the UK by the end of October’23 and should be available across via retail distribution channels or online stores in the United Kingdom. It’s been a culmination of months of getting the product into the UK and soon will be available in Europe. This famous tipple from Goa, India will now be available in its classic version of 750 ml with an alcoholic strength ABV – 42.8% informed London based Karl Da Costa – BSSG UK Ltd responsible for getting the Indian product in the UK market.

Feni comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Fen’ which means froth, a very distinctive character of Gianna’s Cashew Apple Feni.  Brian Marchon from Pickval Traders (Goa, India), the manufacturer, has been modifying the final product to meet international standards while maintaining that local distilled flavor.

Brian Marchon states “We have never been so proud and honored to finally showcase India’s only GI spirit (Feni) into the  European market. Currently, we are in negotiations to supply in Canada and Australia, but I think we will be in New Zealand sooner.”

Karl Da Costa, BSSG UK Ltd. echoed “We are truly excited as in the next coming days we will finally have Gianna’s Feni in the UK. I take this opportunity to thank Brian and his team at Pickval, for entrusting us with Gianna’s Feni and working with us  along the way.”

Karl highlighted that although there are a few challenges – the cost of living crisis, non-duty products, and distribution; they are optimistic and excited, as it’s the only Feni product officially available currently with a few more products in the pipeline like Feni infused liqueurs. 

Established in 1974 by Cajetan Marchon, Pickval Traders Started business by being appointed the Sole distributor in Goa for leading brands like Aristocrat Premium Whisky, and Bonnie’s Scotch Whisky, By the year 2000  Pickval Traders had grown its distribution network across Goa & was appointed the sole distributors for  Sula wines which is today considered the number 1 premium wine in India.

In 2008, Pickval Traders expanded its distribution Portfolio and was appointed the sole distributor in Goa for  Brown Forman Worldwide LLC, including Jack Daniel family collections, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel Single  Barrel Select, Woodford Reserve recently launched Jack Daniel Fire, and Jack Daniel Honey. Also leading Tequila from Mexico i.e. El Charro Tequila Silver; Gold which is leading in the Goa market is appointed distributor in another state too. Pickval Traders also handles the duty-free business of Remy Cointreau,  VSOP’s Remy Brands in Goa. Pickval Traders are sole distributors for Brindco Sales Pvt Ltd offers  International wines from Chile, Spain, Argentina, New – Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and Italy. Recently taken up distribution for Smoke Classic Vodka Aniseed Vodka of N V Distilleries Pvt Ltd Patiala Punjab; imported Beer from Bhutan known as “Konigs”, Montblanc Label Lager Beer 325 ml amber pint which was known as “Kings” black label earlier.

Cajetan Marchon was joined by his son Brian Marchon in 2011 who has since taken over the business;  and expanded it further by diversifying into distribution of the world’s most famous sparkling Carbonated water  “Perrier” the leading premium franchise right of Haagen Daz ice cream for Goa imported from France.

In 2017 Pickval Traders started Manufacturing, and exporting their family labels i.e. “Gianna’s” and currently offer Gianna’s de premium Port wine & Gianna’s classic Cashew Feni. These are currently being distributed & retailed across Goa state & also available in most of the leading five-star hotels, fine dining, clubs, etc. 

Pickval Traders has already launched in Dubai which is now available at Barracuda in Dubai (UAE)  and recently made available at retail stores at African, Eastern in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah (UAE).

ALSO READ: Goan Association North West Hosts World Goa Day Celebration in Manchester

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Goa Lite Blogs UK News

Goan Association North West Hosts World Goa Day Celebration in Manchester

The event was a testament to the vibrant Goan community’s spirit in the North West, as people from all walks of life came together to embrace their heritage and forge new connections.

The Goan Association North West marked a momentous celebration of culture, unity, and community as they commemorated World Goa Day on Sunday, August 20. The event took place at the picturesque Heaton Park in Manchester, where attendees of all ages gathered for a day of festivities, camaraderie, and shared nostalgia.

The event was a testament to the vibrant Goan community’s spirit in the North West, as people from all walks of life came together to embrace their heritage and forge new connections. From dawn until dusk, Heaton Park echoed with laughter, excitement, and a strong sense of togetherness.

The festivities included an array of engaging activities catering to both the young and the young at heart. Park games added an element of fun and competition, fostering team spirit among attendees. Even the youth of the community, with the youngest being just under three months old, were part of this memorable day.

Hilary Fernandes, a long-time resident of Manchester, shared his delight at the event, saying, “It’s been a great day out. When I moved to Manchester over 25 years ago, there were no Goans, so it is great to see a vibrant Goan community in the North West.” His sentiments echoed the sentiment of many who witnessed the blossoming of a close-knit community in the heart of the North West region of England.

Melanie Antao Fernandes, the President of the Goan Association North West, expressed her satisfaction with the event, stating, “This was a humble effort, and it was a small gathering compared to most parts of the world. Nevertheless, it was fun, and everyone got to meet and know each other. Slowly but surely, we are building a community that can come together and celebrate Goa.”

The day’s events culminated in a wave of nostalgia as attendees engaged in friendly competitions like the classic “dog and the bone” game. Laughter filled the air as memories of childhood resurfaced, creating a bond that transcended generations.

The Goan Association North West is committed to nurturing and strengthening the Goan identity in the North West of England. World Goa Day, a global celebration, provided a unique opportunity for the community to connect with their roots while embracing the multicultural fabric of Manchester.

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PM Modi addresses Manipur’s struggle

The violence first broke out in Manipuron May 3, which has led to the death of more than 150 people while thousands of people have been displaced…reports Asian Lite News

 In his address to the nation on Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the country is with the people of Manipur and peace will be achieved in the violence-hit northeastern state via dialogue.

Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Modi said that despite the continued violence, news of peace is coming continuously from the state.

He also reitereted that there was a need to find solutions to ensure long-lasting peace.

“Together, the state and the Central government are trying hard to solve those problems and will continue to do so,” he added.

The violence first broke out in Manipuron May 3, which has led to the death of more than 150 people while thousands of people have been displaced.

The opposition has consistently criticised the Prime Minister for his silence on Manipur and the recently concluded monsoon session of Parliament saw protests and disruptions from it on the issue, leading to the initiation of a no-confidence motion against the government.

Modi had said during his reply to the motion that the violence

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Goa India News

G20 Energy Transitions Working Group meeting in Goa  

There are six priority areas outlined under India’s G20 Presidency reflecting India’s focus on various aspects of energy transition and building global cooperation toward sustainable and clean energy development…reports Asian Lite News

The 4th Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) meeting under India’s G20 Presidency will be held in Goa on Wednesday-Thursday.

In a statement, the government said the two-day meeting will bring together over 100 delegates from G20 member countries, special invitee countries, and several International Organisations. The other three meetings were held in Bengaluru, Gandhinagar, and Mumbai.

The 4th ETWG meeting will be chaired by Pawan Agarwal, who serves as the ETWG Chair and Secretary, Ministry of Power. Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, and Amrit Lal Meena, Secretary, Ministry of Coal, will also be part of the meeting and participate in the deliberations.

There are six priority areas outlined under India’s G20 Presidency reflecting India’s focus on various aspects of energy transition and building global cooperation toward sustainable and clean energy development.

They are energy transitions through addressing technology gaps; low-cost financing for energy transitions; energy security and diversified supply chains; energy efficiency, industrial low carbon transitions, and responsible consumption; fuels for future (3F); and universal access to clean energy and just, affordable, and inclusive energy transition pathways.

These Priority Areas focus on healing our ‘One Earth’, creating harmony within our ‘One Family’, and giving hope for our ‘One Future’ – which is theme of India’s G20 Presidency. (ANI)

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Goa Lite Blogs UK News

Goan Association North West hosts its first event in Manchester

São João is the feast of St. John the Baptist, which is on the 24th of June and is celebrated across Goa, bringing families and friends together.

The Goan Association North West hosted its first event with the celebrations of the São João feast (‘Festa de São João’). The festivities attracted over 100 people from across the North of England.

The region lacked a Goan Association for a long time and the setup of the association in April this year has filled a void to bring the community together to celebrate its culture.

São João is the feast of St. John the Baptist, which is on the 24th of June and is celebrated across Goa, bringing families and friends together. The tradition of São João was introduced in Goa by the Portuguese.

Some traditions associated with São João include jumping into wells, rivers, pools, and ponds. Wearing the handmade floral crown, known in Konkani as ‘Copel’ is very popular too. Making traditional sweets like ‘pateo’ and ‘holle’ both made with a filling of fresh coconut and Jaggery is also a must in many households.

At the ‘Festa de São João’ in Manchester the same spirit was re-created, every family put in their creative efforts to make their ‘Copels’ to win the coveted prize of ‘Best Copel’. 

Dr Ian Silveira Joy Silveira give away the Best Copel prize

Another tradition that was celebrated was felicitating a newly married couple with seasonal fruits and cashew feni in a basket known as ‘Wojje’. Weverley and Lawrence, who have been married for less than a year, took a delicious basket home. 

Support was received from the Goan entrepreneurial community. The food was catered, by Liv’s Take Away and Manchester Goan Food. Several prizes were won including vouchers from Potyo, a coastal Indian cuisine restaurant, and A G Caravela, selling exquisite Portuguese wines and Spirits. 

Bardez, Indian street food and grill restaurant sponsored DJ Jeff, who had the crowds swooning to both Konkani and English tunes.  

Aurelio Fernandes, who has been living in Manchester for the last five years, said: “The event was wonderful, to meet so many Goans today was great. It is particularly difficult to organise something like this in our region as people live in far-off areas and are not concentrated in one area like in London or other regions in the South.

“We need more events like this to celebrate our culture and I hope to be part of future events.”

Long-time residents of Newcastle under Lyme, Joy and Dr Ian Silveira, were ecstatic. Joy said: “We have lived in Newcastle under Lyme for 24 years and we were the only Goan family in this part of the country. We were starved of Goan friends, our vibrant culture and delicious food. So, when we heard of the Sao Joao celebrations being held in Manchester we were thrilled. We enjoyed meeting many Goans from the North West, dancing to lively music and eating delicious food.

“The organisers did a brilliant job getting everyone together and hosting the function. We hope there will be many more events like this for us to join in.”

The Goan Association North West’s founding committee includes Strip Cardoso, Cefona Gracias, Thomas Alphonso, Louie Pereira, and Melanie Antao Fernandes.

The formation of the association is headed by Melanie Antao Fernandes, she said: “The support and attendance at the event have been overwhelming. We are thankful to so many people for saying ‘yes’ to any help we asked for. It’s the start of many more events, we plan to keep the community connected and engaged.

“Interestingly two of our founding members, Louie and Thomas, are young adults, which is so encouraging. We want to engage with Millennials and Gen Z and keep them close to our Goan heritage and culture.

“The success of ‘Festa de São João’ was evident from the outpouring of messages that we received. We know we are on the right track and will continue to serve the Goan community,” added Melanie.

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G20 SAI Summit opens in Goa

With AI making greater inroads into governance, SAIs must inevitably prepare themselves for auditing AI-based governance systems, he said…reports Asian Lite News

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India Girish Chandra Murmu delivered the inaugural address for the three-day conference of the Supreme Audit Institutions (SAI) of G20 countries, which began in Goa on Monday.

Murmu is the chair of the SAI20 engagement group under India’s G20 presidency, a government spokesperson said.

The SAI20 summit will take place in Goa from June 12 to 14. Delegates from SAI20, guest SAIs, invited SAIs, international organisations, engagement groups and other invitees will attend the summit, he said.

SAIs of Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Trkiye, Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Nigeria, Oman, Spain, UAE, Morocco and Poland will be participating in-person, he said.

Under the guiding philosophy for India’s Presidency of G20, Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam, i.e. ‘one earth, one family, and One Future’, CAG had proposed the collaboration of SAI20 engagement group on two priority areas blue economy and responsible artificial intelligence (AI), the spokesman said.

Blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of our ecosystem, he said.

With AI making greater inroads into governance, SAIs must inevitably prepare themselves for auditing AI-based governance systems, he said.

SAIs will look for opportunities to adopt AI into their audit techniques to increase their effectiveness, the official said.

Importantly, consensus will be derived on the role and responsibilities of SAI20 engagement group, in the times to come, in fostering accountability in governance and strategically partnering with the governments to respond to global challenges, he said.

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