Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant has highlighted the reforms that have strengthened the bond between biodiversity heritage of Goa and livelihood avenues flourishing in the state; and as such Goa is on track to be labelled globally as the hub of biodiversity.
Attending the celebrations on 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 at Sankhali, the Chief Minister emphasised the initiatives taken by the government this year.
Among the reforms kicking in are – support for Salt Pan owners, new GSBB scheme to revive traditional salt pans, collaboration with CSMCRI Bhavnagar & experts like Dr. Savita Kerkar, focus on local bio-salt, livelihoods, and ecological restoration.
Dr. Sawant felicitated Goa’s Biodiversity Champions – individuals and communities who are shaping a greener, more sustainable future for our state.
“From Khazan farming to Kulagars and sacred groves, biodiversity is deeply rooted in Goa’s heritage. The Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), supported by the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB), continue to play a pivotal role in preserving our unique ecosystems through local action and community involvement,” stated the Chief Minister.
“Goa’s community-driven conservation model is now inspiring other states – a proud example of how tradition and innovation can work hand-in-hand,” remarked Dr Sawant.
The ecosystem is getting a big boost as Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) are being strengthened with support schemes for grassroots conservation using People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs), promotion of community-led biodiversity action.
The GoVan Multi-Processing Centres in Mining Belts are providing admirable avenues for livelihoods with facilities operational at Kudne, Pissurle, Bhironda, Mayem, Pilgao, Verna, Dabhal, Sulcorna & Uguem. Two more centres are coming up at Sancorda & Rivona. The centres are professionally managed to benefit women, farmers & rural entrepreneurs.
“Our Government is committed to aligning biodiversity conservation with livelihood generation and sustainable development. Through projects like GoVan, Green Skilling, and revival of traditional crops like Patni rice and Parra watermelon, we are empowering local communities and protecting Goa’s natural legacy,” asserted the Chief Minister.
