Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant today emphasized the Government’s strategic push towards youth empowerment and inclusive development, stating that sports is not just a recreational activity but a powerful tool for societal change and character building. He was speaking at a financial assistance disbursement function at the Secretariat, where support was extended to various associations, clubs, and individuals across Goa.
“This isn’t merely about games. It’s about building a generation that is confident, responsible, and socially aware,” Dr. Sawant said. He added that youth in rural and semi-urban areas must be actively engaged and uplifted, and that community-based institutions such as clubs and associations play a key role in shaping the next generation.
The Chief Minister raised concern over youth drifting toward distractions and unproductive routines, urging stakeholders to guide them towards structured engagement through skill-based activities. “With the right mentoring, infrastructure, and opportunity, today’s youth can become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” he noted.
Highlighting the Government’s long-term vision, Dr. Sawant reiterated that preparing for future milestones like the Olympic Games 2036 goes beyond sports—it symbolizes readiness, planning, and a youth-first governance model.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister disbursed ₹2.14 crore to 31 associations and ₹27.84 lakh to 22 clubs, recognizing their role in community-building. Financial assistance was also extended to individual achievers including Shri Umesh Dhavlikar, Miss Pearl Colvalkar, Ms. Sakshi Kale, Ms. Anura Prabhu, Mast. Yash Padloskar, and Mast. Vidhut Lotlikar.
Secretary for Sports, Shri Santosh Sukhdeve, IAS, echoed this vision, describing youth development as the cornerstone of progressive governance. “This initiative reflects our belief that real empowerment begins at the grassroots—with discipline, unity, and opportunity,” he said, urging all clubs and associations to uphold high standards of transparency and collaboration.
The event saw the participation of several public representatives and senior officials, including MLA Shri Sankalp Amonkar, Goa Olympic Association Secretary General Shri Gurudatt Bhakta, and Executive Director Dr. Geeta Nagvenkar.
