CM Pramod Sawant Inaugurates ‘Ahilya’ Girls’ Hostel, Unveils Ahilyabai Holkar Statue at Khandola College Khandola,
Ponda: April 22: In a major boost to women’s education and infrastructure in Goa, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant on Monday inaugurated the newly constructed “Ahilya” Girls’ Hostel at Government College, Khandola, and unveiled a statue of legendary ruler Ahilyabai Holkar on the campus. The ceremony was held in the presence of Marcaim MLA Govind Gaude, Secretary Prasad Lolayekar, IAS, Director of Higher Education Shri Bhushan Savaikar, college principal, faculty, students, and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Sawant said the state government is committed to creating safe, accessible, and quality residential facilities for girl students, especially those from rural and remote areas of Goa. “Naming the hostel after Ahilyabai Holkar is a tribute to her legacy of good governance, women’s empowerment, and devotion to public welfare. Our daughters will draw inspiration from her life,” he said. The facility is expected to benefit over 100 girl students, reducing travel time and dropout rates among those commuting from distant villages. Chief Minister also unveiled a full-size statue of Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century queen of the Malwa kingdom, renowned for her administrative acumen, promotion of education, and extensive temple restoration work across India. MLA Govind Gaude, in whose constituency the college is located, thanked the Chief Minister and the Education Department for prioritizing student infrastructure in Marcaim. “This hostel was a long-pending demand. With this facility, more girls from Ponda, Marcaim, and surrounding areas will enroll for graduation and post-graduation courses without worrying about accommodation,” he said. Director of Higher Education Shri Bhushan Savaikar informed that similar girls’ hostels are being planned in other colleges to improve gross enrolment ratio among women.
Students of Government College Khandola presented a cultural programme depicting the life of Ahilyabai Holkar following the inauguration. The principal of the college proposed the vote of thanks.The event concluded with the Chief Minister interacting with hostel residents and assuring them of continued government support for scholarships, skill training, and career guidance.
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