Goa Celebrates International Day for Biodiversity 2025: CM Felicitates Champions of Conservation
Sankhali : On the occasion of International Day for Biodiversity 2025, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant led the celebrations in Sankhali, honoring Goa’s Biodiversity Champions — individuals and communities making significant contributions to preserving the state’s rich natural heritage.
In a heartfelt address, the Chief Minister emphasized Goa’s unique legacy of community-driven conservation practices rooted in traditional systems like Khazan farming, Kulagars, and sacred groves. “Biodiversity is not just a part of our environment — it is part of Goa’s identity,” Dr. Sawant said, commending the efforts of the Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) and the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB) in fostering grassroots action.
New Biodiversity Initiatives for 2025 Unveiled
Dr. Sawant also announced several key initiatives aimed at strengthening biodiversity conservation while enhancing sustainable livelihoods:
1. Support for Traditional Salt Pan Owners:
A new GSBB scheme will focus on reviving Goa’s traditional salt pans with ecological and economic objectives.
Collaborations with CSMCRI Bhavnagar and experts such as Dr. Savita Kerkar will provide technical guidance.
Emphasis on promoting local bio-salt, sustainable livelihoods, and ecosystem restoration.
2. Strengthening Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs):
Introduction of support schemes to facilitate the use of People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs).
Encouragement of community-led conservation and documentation of local biodiversity.
3. GoVan Multi-Processing Centres in Mining Belts:
Existing centres are now operational in Kudne, Pissurle, Bhironda, Mayem, Pilgao, Verna, Dabhal, Sulcorna, and Uguem.
Two new centres are being set up at Sancorda and Rivona.
These centres aim to empower women, farmers, and rural entrepreneurs by providing professionally managed facilities for value addition and processing of local resources.
The CM reiterated his government’s commitment to integrating biodiversity conservation with sustainable development. Projects such as GoVan, Green Skilling, and the revival of indigenous crops like Patni rice and Parra watermelon were highlighted as examples of how tradition and innovation can align for a greener future.
“Goa’s model of community-driven conservation is now inspiring other states,” the CM said. “Let us continue to nurture a future where nature and progress grow together.”
