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Yuva Sangam Phase-III

NIT Goa organized Yuva Sangam Phase-III under Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat, a ten-day student exchange cultural program to Chhattisgarh from 8th to 18th December 2023.  The primary objective of the student exchange program was to provide an enriching experience encompassing various facets of life, developmental milestones, and personal achievements for the youth.

The Yuva Sangam trip unfolded as a transformative odyssey transcending geographical boundaries, offering a profound exploration of Chhattisgarh’s vibrant tapestry. Departing from the coastal allure of Goa, the caravan delved into the heart of India, embracing the amalgamation of history, culture, nature, and academia that awaited in Chhattisgarh. The journey can be delineated into nine sections.

Section 1: Goa – A Prelude to Cultural Diversity

The lively ambience of Goa set the stage for the adventures to come. The golden beaches, lively markets, and pulsating spirit of the State provided a contrasting backdrop to the upcoming exploration of Chhattisgarh’s diverse landscapes.

Section 2: The Governor’s House – A Glimpse into Political Heritage

On arrival in Chhattisgarh, a visit to the Governor’s House marked the commencement. The majestic architectural marvel served as a testament to the political history of the state, offering an intriguing introduction to Chhattisgarh’s administrative legacy.

Section 3: Sirpur Temples – Unraveling Ancient Mysteries

The journey unfolded further with a visit to Sirpur, a haven of ancient temples showcasing the craftsmanship and spiritual essence of Chhattisgarh. The intricately carved structures and the stories embedded within the temple walls transported participants to an era where art and spirituality converged seamlessly.

Section 4: Jungle Safari – A Thrilling Encounter with Wilderness

An exhilarating jungle safari was a highlight, venturing into the untamed wilderness of Chhattisgarh. From elusive wildlife to breathtaking landscapes, the safari provided an immersive experience, connecting participants with the rich biodiversity that defines the region.

Section 5: IGKV Raipur – Nurturing Agricultural Excellence

The educational turn of the expedition included a visit to the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya in Raipur. The agricultural university proved to be a fountain of knowledge, offering insights into Chhattisgarh’s agrarian landscape and the innovative practices shaping the future of agriculture.

Section 6: Raipur Market – A Melting Pot of Cultures

The vibrant pulse of Raipur’s market drew participants into a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and traditions. Interacting with locals, sampling regional cuisine, and immersing in the bustling market scene provided a firsthand experience of Chhattisgarh’s cultural diversity.

Section 7: Bhilai Steel Plant – Industrial Marvel and Economic Backbone

A visit to the Bhilai Steel Plant added an industrial perspective to the exploration. The colossal industrial complex, with its towering structures and humming machinery, offered a glimpse into the state’s industrial prowess, adding an economic context to the journey.

Section 8: Chilpi Ghati – Serenity amidst Nature’s Splendor

Chilpi Ghati, a serene location nestled amidst hills and verdant landscapes, provided a tranquil retreat. The picturesque surroundings offered moments of reflection, allowing participants to appreciate the beauty of nature and the peaceful respite it provided from the urban hustle.

Section 9: IIT Bhilai – Academic Excellence and Innovation

The academic turn of the journey included a stay at IIT Bhilai. Engaging with students and faculty members provided insights into Chhattisgarh’s commitment to education and innovation. The modern infrastructure of the campus reflected the State’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence.

Chhattisgarh, through the lens of the Yuva Sangam trip, emerged as a vibrant mosaic, inviting the participants to explore its depths and appreciate the multifaceted identity it proudly embraces.

Chandrakant Vishvakarma (SY B.Com D) and Sanketh Shriodkar (TY B.Com A) participated in Yuva Sangam-III. They were also a part of Yuga Sangam Phase-I to Himachal Pradesh from 15th -25th May 2023 with 45 other students from across Goa.

Visit to INS Kadamba

On the occasion of Navy Day on 4th December, Cadets from NCC Naval Wing visited INS Kadamba at Karwar. The visit provided them with valuable insights into various naval commands and the significance behind the celebration of Navy Day on this particular date.

INS Chapal played a crucial role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, bombarding Karachi Port and enforcing a naval blockade in the Arabian Sea. Now decommissioned and open to visitors, the museum offered a glimpse into the history and significance of INS Chapal. The warship played a pivotal role in crippling Pakistan’s commercial capital, and its crew was honored with 2 Param Veer Chakras and 8 Veer Chakras, some of the highest military honors in India. During the visit to INS Chapal, the cadets explored its rich interiors, barracks used by staff, engine rooms, external guns, and uniforms of the servicemen. This experience provided them with a profound insight into life at sea. The visit also allowed the cadets to understand the various components of ships.

23 cadets were accompanied by Sub Lt. Pretty Louiza Pereira , ANO

Session on ‘Financial Literacy’

On 2nd December, 2023, a session exclusively for women on the topic ‘Financial Literacy’ was organised at Ravindra Bhavan by Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited powered by Franklin Templeton, with the objective of encouraging women to save and invest. 24 female students of our college comprising of 15 students of the BBA (FS) and 10 students from the B.Com attended the session.

The registration procedure began at 10.00 a.m. followed by the main session that commenced at 11.00 a.m. Following the inaugural ceremony, Shri. Kiran Thakur, the Chairman of Lokmanya Multipurpose Co-op. Society Ltd, delivered the introductory speech. Chief Guest Mrs. Hema Sardesai, Indian playback singer, shared her insights on the importance of financial knowledge.

Later, a panel discussion, featuring Mrs. Shruti Sidhaye, Mrs. Gayatri Chowgule, Mrs. Dipali Chandak and Mr. Dominic D’Souza, explored financial liquidity, returns, and safety. The significance of return as a crucial element for the general public in investing, liquidity for emergency availability and the duration of investment lock-in were emphasized. The degree of security and not missing out on opportunities were also discussed.

The program concluded with a presentation on ‘Women and Investing’ by Franklin Templeton. It conveyed that women, once primarily nurturers, have become providers as more enter the workforce, necessitating financial wisdom. The need for women to be financially savvy was outlined along with the significance of investing in mutual funds. The basic tenets of investing were also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of saving and investing to combat inflation. Inflation and the power of compounding were explored in detail and the allocation of assets based on risk appetite was emphasized. The session ended at 1:30 pm.

Assistance at Fun Fair at Jyot School

Jyot School for Children with Autism organized a Fun Fair for the students, parents, and general public on 2nd December 2023 as a part of social engagement and interaction with the people.

Games were organised for the audience and an exhibition of different items like bracelets, potted plants, candles, paintings, etc., were put up by the students. NSS volunteers from our college joined the celebration and assisted students and their staff in conducting the activities smoothly. The program started at 4:00 p.m. and ended at 8:30 p.m.

Staff Games 2023-2024

The Department of Physical Education and Sports organized Staff Games on 1st& 2nd December, 2023, in the College Multipurpose Hall. 47 staff members participated in four different games: Chess Mix, Carrom Doubles, Badminton (men and women), and Table Tennis (men and women).

Mr. Saurabh Raikar, the Instructor in Physical Education, briefed participants about the rules and regulations of the tournament. The competition followed a knock-out format, and fixtures were designed through a draw.

The Results of the Staff Games are:

Games
Position
Name of the Player

Chess Mix
1st Place
Mr. Sameer Patil

2nd Place
Mr. Shreyas Desai

3rd Place
Mr. Saurabh Raikar

Carrom Doubles
1st Place
Mr. Jayant Panvelkar & Ms. Lina Sadekar

2nd Place
Mr. Seby D’Silva& Ms. Delisha Rebello

3rd Place
Mr. Kevin Fernandes & Ms. Pradnya Nadkarni

Table Tennis (Men)
1st Place
Mr. Dewaraj Hirekurbar

2nd Place
Mr. Saurabh Raikar

3rd Place
Mr. Omkar Pawaskar

Table-Tennis (Women)
1st Place
Ms. Yugandhara Joshi

2nd Place
Ms. Snigdha Naik

3rd Place
Ms. Swati Bhat

Badminton (Men)
1st Place
Mr. Omkar Pawaskar

2nd Place
Mr. Dewaraj Hirekurbar

3rd Place
Mr. Harish Borkar

Badminton (Women)
1st Place
Ms. Kanvisha Parsekar

2nd Place
Ms. Pradnya Nadkarni

3rd Place
Ms. Yugandhara Joshi

The Chief Guest for the tournament was Prof. Prita D. Mallya, Principal, and the Guest of Honour was Vice Principal Dr. Edwin Barreto. Mr. Saurabh Raikar served as the Compere for the tournament. Mr. Dewaraj Hirekurbar, the College Director of Physical Education & Sports, expressed his gratitude to all SDCCE staff for their enthusiastic participation in various sports. The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks presented by Mr. Siddhivinayak Hadapad, Sports General Secretary.

Certificate Course in Photography and Videography

The Certificate Course Committee in association with the Department of Commerce & Management organised a 30-Hour Certificate Course in Photography and Videography from September to December 2023. 73 students of B.Com and Management Studies registered for the course. The Resource Person for the Course was Mr. Brijesh Kakodkar, Proprietor, Golden Elephant Media. The classes were held in Hall No 1 from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm twice a week. 50 students completed the course. The faculty incharge for the course was Ms. Sheryl Sanches.

The course covered fundamental photography techniques, mastering camera settings, and composing captivating visuals. In video production, the course focused on editing, exploring storytelling, cinematography, and post-production. Mr. Kakodkar focused on utilizing industry-standard software and cutting-edge tools to enhance students’ artistic vision. Through hands-on projects and expert guidance, students developed a diverse portfolio of stunning photos and compelling videos.

In Photography and photo editing, the students learnt the following:

Composition: Understanding principles such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and framing to improve the impact of photographs.
Lighting: Learning to work with natural light, use reflectors and diffusers, and experiment with artificial lighting techniques to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere in images.
Camera Settings: Familiarization with camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO; understanding these settings to control exposure, depth of field, and motion blur, giving greater creative control over one’s
Post-Processing: Learning how to enhance colors, adjust contrast, and fine-tune the images using software and applications to elevate one’s work and bring out the best in the

In videography and video editing, the students learnt the following:

Storytelling: Understanding the importance of crafting a clear narrative, through interviews, voice overs, visual sequences, to engage the audience emotionally and intellectually.
Cinematography: Developing an eye for cinematography, including framing, camera movement, and shot composition. Mastering techniques including establishing shots, close-ups, and tracking shots to create dynamic and visually captivating videos.
Audio: Learning how to record clean and clear sound. Properly syncing audio with video during post-production for a professional video.
Editing: Students learnt to cut and sequence clips effectively, add transitions, and incorporate visual effects.

The students greatly benefited from this course.

World AIDS Day

To commemorate World AIDS Day, the NSS unit of the College organised different activities to create awareness about AIDS among the public.

The day commenced with the enthusiastic participation of students and teachers in taking a pledge. Following the pledge, a vibrant rally was organized within the Margao area, spearheaded by the NSS volunteers and NSS PO. Carrying banners, placards, and informational materials, the rally aimed to engage the local community, disseminating crucial information about HIV/AIDS prevention. The lively procession drew the attention of bystanders, effectively spreading awareness and emphasizing the significance of World AIDS Day.

Simultaneously, the NSS unit utilized the College Digital Display Boards to broadcast the importance of World AIDS Day. A dedicated segment showcased informative content, emphasizing the history of the day, global statistics, preventive measures, and support available for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. This initiative leveraged the College’s reach to amplify the message and educate a wider audience within the College community. By taking proactive steps, the College not only educated its own members but also extended its reach to the local community through the rally. The utilization of the College Digital Display Boards further amplified the message, ensuring a wider dissemination of information.

47 students participated in this activity.

Meeting of NCC Naval Wing

1 Goa Naval Unit NCC, Peddem Mapusa, Goa organized a conference on 28th November 2023 from 10.15 am -11. 45 am in Hall No 2 of the College. Principal Prof. Prita D Mallya, extended a floral welcome to the Commanding Officer (CO) of 1 Goa Naval Unit NCC, Captain S Ram Kumar, and addressed the gathering.

During the conference, the CO highlighted several important issues:

ANOs/CTOs were urged to complete the online enrollment at the earliest.
Emphasis was placed on the submission of hard copies of enrollment forms by institutes.
Cadets were informed about receiving Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for dress allowances and washing allowances.
Regular parades and other NCC-related activities were encouraged for ANOs/CTOs.
Formation of clusters and the regular conduct of classes by CI/PI staff were discussed.
It was stressed that girl cadets attending camps outside Goa should be accompanied by a lady ANO/CTO..

The CO also addressed various queries raised by Principals, ANOs/CTOs. The meeting concluded at 11:45 am, followed by a tea session. LC Vaishavi Borkar served as the compere, and the Vote of Thanks was proposed by Sub Lt Pretty Louiza Pereira, ANO at VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics.

The conference saw the participation of 28 ANOs/CTOs, 16 Principals, CI/PI staff, and other personnel from 1 Goa Naval Unit NCC.

Activities conducted on Constitution Day

Constitution Day, also known as National Law Day, is celebrated in India on November 26th every year to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India. The National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Damodar College actively participated in the celebrations, organizing a series of online events to engage students and foster awareness about the significance of the Indian Constitution. One of the key activities conducted by the NSS unit was an online Preamble Reading session. Students were asked to login and recite Preamble. The event aimed to emphasize the principles and values enshrined in the Constitution, promoting a sense of unity and patriotism among the participants. 45 students participated in this activity.

Further, to enhance the understanding of the Constitution and its various aspects, the NSS Unit organized an online quiz on the topic ‘Loktantrakijanani’. The quiz covered topics such as the historical background of the Constitution, fundamental rights, directive principles, and notable amendments. The participants showcased their knowledge, and the quiz served as an interactive platform for learning about the legal framework that governs the country.  32 students participated in this activity.

The NSS unit also organized a Slogan Writing Competition on the theme ‘Fundamental Rights under the Constitution of India’. Participants were encouraged to craft slogans that highlighted the significance of individual rights such as the right to equality, right to freedom, and the right to life. 13 students participated in this activity.

Mr. Kewell Vinay Fernandes from T.Y B.Com won the first prize. Ms. Koel Jana from T.Y B.Com won second prize and Ms. Nandita Borkar from S.Y B.Com got third prize. The activity was coordinated by Mr. Sanjay Velip, NSS PO-Incharge, Ms. Saruka Kalgutkar, NSS PO, and Ms. Akshada Gaonkar, NSS PO.

Career Guidance Programme

A Career Guidance Programme was organized by Don Bosco College of Engineering, on 7th November 2023 from 8.30 am to 12.45 pm. The session aimed at enlightening students about the diverse opportunities available in the armed forces and civil services. The session commenced at 9.00 am with the welcome address delivered by Col. J. A. A. D’Souza.  The Chief guest for the program was Rev. Fr. Kinley D’Cruz, Director Don Bosco College of Engineering.

The speaker for the first session was Major General Christopher Fernandes (Rtd.) who spoke about career opportunities in the armed forces. The speaker elucidated the educational qualifications and eligibility criteria for various positions in Air Force, Army and Navy. He elaborated on the diverse career options available in the defence sector and further informed students that from commissioned officers to technical experts, the army offers a plethora of roles suited for individuals with different educational backgrounds. Technical and non-technical positions, as well as opportunities for women, were discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the job profiles available in these areas. Realistic insights into the lifestyle of individuals serving in NCC, Army and Navy were also shared. The speaker addressed the challenges and rewards of the careers in the armed forces.

The speaker for the second session was Mr. Anthony De Sa. (Retd. IAS). He gave an overview of the job opportunities available in the civil services. Students were encouraged to consider joining civil services as there are many vacancies available at different positions. The Resource Person stressed on the fact that besides academic excellence, physical fitness, leadership qualities and a spirit of adventure were some of the crucial attributes sought after by these institutions.

At the end Mr. Blaise Costabir, MD GMI Zarhak Moulders Pvt. Ltd. took charge of the session and discussed why choosing the right career path is important for youngsters. He gave many real-life examples and motivated students to take up entrepreneurship. The career guidance talk was well-received by the students, providing them with a clearer understanding of the diverse and prestigious career opportunities within NCC, Army and Navy. The programme concluded at 12.45 pm with an interactive Q&A session where students had the chance to seek clarification on various aspects. 16 interested students attended the session and found it to be very informative and helpful. The students were accompanied by Ms. Pooja Shanbhag, Assistant Professor in Commerce and Convenor of Career Cell.