Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a heartwarming initiative that blended safety with inclusivity, Drishti Marine organised a special beach outing for 16 visually impaired students from the National Association for the Blind (NAB), Goa. The experience took place at Hawaii Beach in Dona Paula, where children enjoyed swimming, boating, and beach play under the vigilant care of trained lifesavers.
The event marked a rare and joyous opportunity for the children, many of whom were experiencing the sea for the first time. A secure 30×50 metre swim zone was demarcated for the occasion, allowing students to safely float, swim, and race small boats, guided and accompanied by Drishti Marine’s lifesaving team.
“I didn’t know how to swim before, but now I know,” shared 11-year-old Gauresh Gawde. “I liked floating and playing with the small boats.”
Fellow student Misfaar Bagwan added, “My favourite part was the rescue board. I loved playing in the sand with my friends.”
Drishti Marine, Goa’s official beach safety agency, ensured the highest level of safety throughout the outing. “We had rescue boards, a jet ski, and a rigid inflatable boat on standby. All the children wore life jackets, and 8–10 trained lifesavers remained inside the swim zone at all times,” said Ananyaa Bath, a 29-year-old lifesaver with the team.
Teachers accompanying the children noted a visible boost in confidence among the students. “Our students are really connected with the environment. It built their confidence and gave them a new sense of joy,” said Resha Vernekar, a music and computer teacher at NAB Goa.
NAB Goa President Joe Noronha called the outing a landmark moment for the children. “It’s the first time so many of our students entered the sea. They have thoroughly enjoyed the water and surf-boating experience,” he said.
Commander Arun Patil, Director at the Drishti Marine Foundation, stated, “We wanted to give these children a joyful and memorable experience, and above all, ensure their complete safety.”
This event is the third such initiative by Drishti Marine in partnership with NAB Goa, following successful scuba diving and river cruise activities.
The agency now plans to expand inclusive recreation programs for senior citizens and other underserved communities across Goa.
