The Department of Economics of Carmel College has initiated a Webinar Series to analyze the impact of the pandemic on the Goan economy. The first of the series titled, ‘Reviving Agriculture in Goa- Need, Opportunities and Roadblocks’, was held on 29 th August, 2020.
Dr. Aldina Braganza, Principal of the College welcomed the participants and congratulated the Department of Economics for their efforts in integrating academia and system policies. Dr. Rovina Fernandes, Head of the Department and Co-ordinator of the webinar stating the objectives of the webinar, raised some concerns related to agriculture sector in Goa. Ms Glancy Borges introduced the Resource Persons.
Ms. Gauri Prabhudesai, Zonal Agriculture Officer, Sanguem-Goa, Fr. (Dr.) Bolmax Pereira, Assistant Professor in Botany, St Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim and Ms. Liza Pinheiro, a young Agriculturist were the main speakers. The session was chaired by Mr. Miguel Braganza, noted Agriculturist and Agriculture Consultant. Ms. Prabhudesai spoke on the role played by the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa in helping farmers during the pandemic times in accessing seeds, in mechanization of farm operations and in efforts to activate electronic platforms to assist the farmers in accessing information and schemes. She stressed on the need for smart farming using technology for crop operations to cut on labour costs, value addition and marketing so as to make it remunerative and attractive. Rev. Dr. Pereira whose doctoral thesis is on Wetlands of Goa, spoke on the revival of rice cultivation by educated youth in Chicalim village and stressed that investment in agriculture can provide the necessary stimulus and sustain the Goan Economy. He also voiced the need for a Zonal Agriculture Office in Mormugao Taluka and financial support to cultivate to those farmers who are not owners of land. The young Ms. Pinheiro shared her experiences on kitchen gardening and illustrated the techniques and benefits of growing vegetables organically. Ms.Puja Yadav, faculty of the Department, proposed the vote of thanks. The webinar which had good participation from interested people across Goa sought to address some pertinent issues related to agriculture in Goa and has set the agenda for further deliberations and initiatives to put the focus back on our traditional Goan occupation which can make Goa green again.
