Panaji: April 22, 2026
Bringing new hope and opportunities for young women across Goa, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the ‘Ahilya’ Girls Hostel at the Government College of Arts, Science & Commerce, Khandola, Marcela. The newly launched facility is set to benefit girl students, particularly from rural and remote areas, by providing them with safe, affordable, and quality accommodation close to their place of study.
Developed by GSIDC at a cost of approximately ₹7.25 crore, the hostel is a modern Ground Plus Two structure equipped with well-furnished rooms, study areas, dining and canteen facilities, reading rooms, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a yoga hall, and CCTV-enabled security systems. The hostel has been designed to create a safe and inspiring environment, with affordable accommodation fees expected to be around ₹1000, making it accessible to a wider section of students.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted that empowering women is central to the Government’s vision of inclusive development. He stated that no society can progress unless its women are educated, safe, and independent, and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every girl in Goa has the opportunity to pursue her education without barriers.
Chief Minister Dr. Sawant appreciated the efforts of GSIDC and the consultants involved in executing the project, and emphasized the importance of strengthening the industry-academia connect. He urged teachers to actively guide students through career counselling and encourage them to prepare for competitive examinations such as UPSC and GPSC. Drawing inspiration from the life of Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, he spoke about her exemplary leadership, administrative excellence, and commitment to public welfare, encouraging students to imbibe her values and strive for excellence.
The inauguration ceremony underscored the Government’s continued focus on creating inclusive and student-centric infrastructure. The Ahilya Girls Hostel is expected to ease travel challenges, promote higher enrollment of girl students, and provide a supportive environment for their academic and personal growth.
Among those present on the occasion were Shri Govind Gaude, MLA, Priol Constituency; Shri Rajesh Faldesai, MLA, Cumbharjua Constituency; Shri Rohit Kadam, Managing Director, GSIDC; Shri Prasad Lolayekar, IAS, Secretary, Education; Shri Bhushan Sawaikar; ZP Member, Betki-Khandola; the Sarpanch of Betki-Khandola, along with college officials, faculty members, and students.
