Category: Goa

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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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-Top News Goa India News

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

ALSO READ-Nation gathers for PM Modi’s address on 77th Independence Day

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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)

ALSO READ-G20 expert group calls for plan to garner extra $20 bn

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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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-Top News Goa

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.

ALSO READ-G20 delegates arrive for development ministers’ meet

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Food Goa Lite Blogs

Unique blend of Goan flavours

Goan cuisine is characterized by its unique blend of flavors, influenced by Portuguese, Hindu, and Muslim cultures. It is known for its spicy and tangy taste and the use of coconut, seafood, and kokum as key ingredients.

Chef Sombir Choudhary of Raahi and Jamming Goat comments, “Goan Food consists of warm and comforting dishes that consist of novel culinary styles due to its colonial history. Goan cuisine uses ingredients like tomatoes, chilies, potatoes, cashew nuts, pineapple, vinegar, and bread-like pao. It surely gives us so many emotions to add to our dishes and takes us down memory lane to where our mothers have been using these ingredients in every household across the country. The spices used in the cuisine are achieved by pounding spices with muscle power and patience. It is one of the few cuisines which has kept the age-old traditional style of cooking like the usage of Varn – a grinding stone to make pastes, Dantem – a hand mill to ground spice powders, and the usage of brass for making desserts. This traditional method imparts distinctive taste and aroma to the food.” 

He adds, “The cuisine has been developed out of a merger of various cultures that came in contact with Goa during their colonization such as Portuguese, British, Arab, Brazilian, African, French, Malaysian, Chinese, and even Indian cultures like Konkani, Malabari, Saraswat, and South Indian. This diversity in the cuisine is sure to be a delight to the mother’s palate and offers a wide scope of spices and intense flavors in the dishes.”

Here are some mouthwatering Goan meal recipes that you may make at home:

Goan Prawn Curry (10 portions) I By Chef Sombir Choudhary, Jamming Goat 3.0

For masala paste: 

Freshly grated coconut – 4 nos.

Byadgi Mirchi – 125gms

Sankeshwari Mirchi – 75 gms

Coriander seeds – 150 gms

Jeera whole – 30 gms

Garlic cloves peeled – 20 nos.

Black Pepper – 4 nos.

For tempering

Refined Oil – 45 ml

Onion sliced – 300 gms

Turmeric – 5 gms

Ginger juliennes – 75 gms

Tomato juliennes deseeded – 100 gms

Kokum – 7 nos.

Fresh Coconut Milk – 750 ml

Prawns:

Prawns (deshelled with tail) – 1 kg

Turmeric – 4 gms

Onion sliced – 150 gms

Ginger – 30 gms

Tomato – 100 gms

For Garnishing:

Coriander leaves

Grated coconut

Method:

Blend coconut, both the type of chillies, coriander seeds, Jeera, peeled garlic cloves and black pepper into a fine paste

In a pan, add refined oil, add ginger, onion, turmeric powder, tomato along with salt. Let this masala cook for a few seconds, post which add the paste that was made earlier. Add some water, add more salt if required, and then add the kokum to this curry. If the kokum is added initially, it will burn and not give the required taste

Allow it to cook until the masala loses its raw flavor. Remove the kokum if the curry is sour as per your taste. Now finish with coconut milk to balance the sourness of the kokum

For the prawns, clean them and mix them in another pot with turmeric powder, onion, ginger, tomato and salt

Add just enough water for the prawns to cook,drain the water and then add them to thecurry made initially

Do not allow the gravy to boil once again else it will release its oil on top

Garnish with some coriander leaves and grated coconut

Finally, serve the curry hot with rice or pao

Cheesy Beetroot Tikki I By Chef Vishal Said, Magique

20 grams Oil

200 grams Beetroot

50 grams potatoes

10 grams garlic

10 gram ginger

5 grams green chilli

5 grams chilli powder

2 grams jeera powder

2 grams garam masala

30 grams Roasted Channa dal powder

20 grams cashew powder

30 grams ghee

8 grams salt

75 grams processed Cheese

For the dip:

50 grams Hung Curd

25 grams processed Cheese

5 grams garlic

1 gram back pepper powder

2 grams parsley

Method:

Add oil to a pan

Add garlic, ginger & green chillies into the oil and sauté for 2 minutes

Add boiled and grated beetroot & potatoes to the pan and cook them for 3-4 minutes

Add the chilly powder, jeera powder, garam masala and salt. Cook it till all the mixture comes together

Remove the pan from the fire and mix the roasted Channa dal powder, Cashew powder

Divide the mixture into 5 parts

Stuff cheese into the mixture & shape them into round tikki shape

Add ghee to the pan and grill it on both sides

Serve the tikkis hot with the dip

Mix all the ingredients together to form a creamy, tasty dip

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Goa India News

Goa to host five important G20 meets in June

The meeting in Goa on June 3 and 4 will try to come up with a framework that is applicable across G20 countries, he said…reports Asian Lite News

Goa will host five important meetings of the G20 summit in June, which will cover topics of startups, finance, audit and tourism, a senior official said on Tuesday.

The meetings will bring together delegates from the world’s major economies and provide an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation on global issues and challenges, said Sanjit Rodrigues, nodal officer for G20 meetings in Goa.

Briefing about the meetings, Startup20 India Chair and Mission Director Atal Innovation Mission, Niti Aayog, Chintan Vaishnav said Startup20 Goa Sankalpana is the third meeting of the Startup20 Engagement Group for start-ups under the Indian Presidency of the G20 to be held on June 3 and 4.

“The meeting will be one of the platforms for discussions on a common framework to define startups. G20 member countries, including India and the US, will deliberate on the topic in order to promote the growth of new ventures,” Vaishnav said.

The meeting in Goa on June 3 and 4 will try to come up with a framework that is applicable across G20 countries, he said.

The meeting will also focus on building consensus on the Draft Policy Communiqué, which was recently published by the Startup20 seeking public views, he said.

“The final communiqué will be taken to the Gurugram meeting scheduled on July 3 and 4. The engagement group has suggested a list of support measures for the sector based on the reports of its five task forces on foundation, alliances, finance, inclusion and sustainability,” Vaishnav said.

Rodrigues said the International Financial Architecture Working Group (IFAWG) of G20 will hold its third meeting in Goa from June 5- 7 to explore ways to improve the international financial Architecture and address the pressing issues facing the global economy.

The SAI20 Summit, a meeting of the Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of the G20 countries is scheduled to take place in Goa from June 12 to 14 and aims to discuss and produce a consensus document in the form of a SAI20 communiqué, he said.

The 4th Tourism Working Group Meeting, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and WTTC (India initiative) will be held on June 19 and 20, he said.

The purpose of the meetings is to discuss and address global tourism challenges and opportunities, he said.

The ministerial meeting of the tourism working group is scheduled to be held on June 21 and 22 with ministers of tourism from the G20 countries and other invited guests to discuss the outcomes of the previous working group meetings and adopt a joint declaration on tourism cooperation, Rodrigues said.

The Goa meet will result in two official documents: a “Goa Roadmap” that outlines a common vision for the G20 tourism working group on how to address five key areas through policies, strategies and practices; and a ministerial communiqué that summarises the main outcomes of the meeting, he said.

ALSO READ-Kashmiri hospitality on display at G20-Srinagar

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Goa Lite Blogs Travel & Tourism

Goa beyond beaches

Parasailing is one of the most popular adventure sports on offer in Goa. Adrenaline junkies, who aspire to fly high above the blue Arabian Sea should definitely try out this…reports Asian Lite News

Goa has, without a doubt, been the reigning favourite among domestic and foreign tourists alike within India. The charming landscapes lined with coconut trees, sandy beaches, serene churches made popular by Bollywood, Portugal architecture and trendy bars have been the reason why Goa has been such a crowdpuller over the last two decades.

But as tourism in Goa grows, the city too is evolving to cater to a wider variety of interests, says Niharika Nigam, Director, Business Development at Jumpin Heights.

Imagine elevating the classic Goa experience with a splash of spine-chilling extreme adventure sports. Yes, Goa has now upped its game and opened its doors to some world-class adventure facilities. Take a look at what the city has to offer in terms of adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Bungy jumping

Bungy jumping in Goa is an experience not to be missed. The city now boasts of the country’s second-highest bungy, operated by Jumpin Heights, experts who pioneered bungy jumping in India. After operating 80,000 jumps in Rishikesh, they have opened their second facility in Goa. Bungy from a height of 55 metres over Mayem Lake in North Goa, with Australia and New Zealand safety standards. So, adventure-seekers, rush to pack your bags and check this off your bucket list before this decade is over.

Scuba diving

Colourful corals, wrecks from the pages of history and the thrill of being in the abandon of the infinite sea, scuba diving is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And the best part is that you need not dish out big moolah for this sport in countries like Maldives or Thailand, because Goa offers you stunning experience of marine life while scuba diving with the best of instructors and safety equipment.

Parasailing

Parasailing is one of the most popular adventure sports on offer in Goa. Adrenaline junkies, who aspire to fly high above the blue Arabian Sea should definitely try out this. Parasailing is a hot favourite amongst families, kids, and couples as it offers the perfect combination of thrill and enjoyment while being comparatively easier than the other water sports.

River rafting

Mandovi or Mhadei river is one of the most picturesque rivers of Goa suited best for river rafting. Located about 50 kilometres away from Panjim, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot and a popular trekking destination in Goa. It is now also earning the distinction of a white water rafting site, where you can head to, to get an adrenaline rush.

Kite surfing

Popular adventure activity in Goa, kite surfing is not for the faint-hearted. It requires controlling a speeding power kite on the water or in the sky, which is impossible without proper training. The adventure sport requires expert supervision and can only be done by adults.

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-Top News Goa India News

G20 delegates take part in Yoga session  

The second HWG meeting will have thematic discussions on three priorities identified under the G20 Health Track…reports Asian Lite News

G20 delegates on Tuesday took part in a Yoga session in Panaji Goa, on the second day of the second Health Working Group (HWG) meeting under India’s G20 presidency. Union Minister of State for Health and family welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar participated and appealed to everyone to practise yoga.

“I appeal to everyone to practise Yoga each day for a healthy life,” said Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar. The three-day Health Working Group began on Monday. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, more than 180 delegates from 19 G20 member countries, 10 invited states and 22 international organizations are participating in the meeting.

The second HWG meeting will have thematic discussions on three priorities identified under the G20 Health Track.

The first priority is Health Emergencies Prevention, Preparedness and Response with a focus on One Health and AMR (antimicrobial resistance). The second is Strengthening Cooperation in Pharmaceutical Sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics). The third priority includes Digital Health Innovations and Solutions to Aid Universal Health Coverage and Improve Healthcare Service Delivery, said the official statement.

Several cultural programmes infused with flavours of Goan culture have been planned for the event to showcase India’s rich diversity and culture based on the Indian philosophy of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’. Delegates will also be able to experience Goa’s culinary culture, besides enjoying its scenic beauty and generous hospitality, the statement said. (ANI)

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