Porvorim, 17th April 2025 – In a significant step towards enhancing community sports infrastructure and promoting a healthy lifestyle among residents, Khelangan, a comprehensive multi-utility sports and recreation facility, was inaugurated on 16th April 2025 in Porvorim by Minister for IT & Tourism and MLA of Porvorim, Rohan A. Khaunte.
The event saw the presence of Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, senior officials from the Department of Tourism, Zilla Panchayat Member Kavita Gupesh Naik, Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar, Sarpanch Sonia Sanjay Pednekar, and Panch members from Socorro, Penha de Franca, and Salvador do Mundo, along with a large gathering of enthusiastic residents.
Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte expressed his vision for creating a robust ecosystem that nurtures physical wellness, community bonding, and youth development through grassroots-level initiatives.
Earlier, our children had to travel to Panjim or Mapusa for training and to access facilities. Today, right here in Porvorim, everything is available in one place—training grounds, a futsal ground, a laughter club, coaching facilities, and much more. These amenities are now fully accessible to the people of Porvorim. With the help and guidance of the Goa Cricket Association (GCA), especially Suraj Lotlikar and the officials of the GCA, we are also bringing structured training programs for our youth. This will empower them with skills, opportunities, and a pathway to a brighter future. Futsal, which has become extremely popular among the youth, now has a dedicated ground right here. Alongside this, we have a badminton court and several other facilities to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
What was once available only in selected cities is now here for the people of Porvorim. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm of the public reflect the love for sports and community activities.
The commitment to ensuring that the best resources are made available with this inauguration proves that Porvorim is not just progressing—it is setting an example.
Khelangan offers a variety of facilities including:
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A cricket training centre in collaboration with the Goa Cricket Association (GCA)
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A futsal court catering to the growing interest in the sport
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A badminton court
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A dedicated senior citizen sit-out area
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Community activity zones such as a laughter club and coaching spaces
The project represents the shared commitment of local leadership and government bodies to bring world-class amenities closer to the people. It exemplifies the efforts of the Department of Tourism in supporting initiatives that go beyond tourism, actively contributing to the social and physical well-being of local communities.
Khelangan is envisioned as a dynamic hub where generations can come together, engage in physical activity, learn new skills, and strengthen the spirit of community living—making Porvorim a beacon of progress and inclusivity.
