THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
As part of the #IronLadiesIndia'25 initiative for International Women’s Day 2025, Vedanta Sesa Goa partnered with the Goa Paralympic Association to support para-athlete and ‘Iron Lady’ Sakshi Kale in her journey to the World Para-Athletics Grand Prix 2024-25 and the ‘Khelo India’ games. A felicitation ceremony was held at Sesa Ghor, Patto, Panjim, to mark the occasion. The #IronLadiesIndia initiative by Sesa Goa celebrates the resilience and achievements of women across Goa and beyond.
Vedanta Sesa Goa extended financial support to Sakshi Kale for her training and competition expenses, along with a memento recognising her inspiring journey. The event was attended by Navin Jaju, CEO, Vedanta Sesa Goa; Vishram Naik, President, Goa Paralympic Association; Sudesh Thakur, Secretary, GPA; Sakshi’s parents, Mr. & Mrs. Ishwar Kale; Prof. (Dr.) Purnakala Samant, Principal, Govt. College for Arts, Science & Commerce (GCASC), Khandola; and senior Sesa Goa executives.
Congratulating Sakshi, Navin Jaju said, “What we are doing for Sakshi is a reflection of her own philosophy of ‘giving back’ meaningfully. We at Vedanta Sesa Goa are honoured to support her as she strives for sporting glory. She is an ‘Iron Lady’ and a role model for us all.”
Sudesh Thakur emphasised the importance of corporate support for para-athletes, stating, “Para-athletes need special attention and facilities, which can only be provided when companies like Sesa Goa come forward. This timely support will boost Sakshi’s performance at the World Para-Athletics Grand Prix.”
Expressing gratitude, Sakshi Kale said, “I thank Vedanta Sesa Goa for their support. This will encourage other para-athletes too. I am motivated to excel for India, and this backing will fuel my efforts.”
Hailing from Usgao and a student at GCASC, Khandola, Sakshi has overcome visual impairment through sheer determination. She will compete in the 100m, 200m sprint, and long jump at the Grand Prix before representing Goa at the ‘Khelo India’ games.
Prof. (Dr.) Purnakala Samant lauded Sakshi’s commitment, calling her “an inspiration for the youth” and wished her success in her upcoming championships.
