Water conservation, environmental awareness and community participation took centre stage at Sadbhav Mahotsav 2026, organised by the Society of Pilar at the Batim Village Panchayat Hall in Goa. Held under the theme “Valuing Water, Securing Tomorrow,” the event brought together school students, teachers, college students, farmers and villagers to explore the connections between ecological conservation, sustainable livelihoods and community harmony.
The Mahotsav was organised in collaboration with Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar; Tambdi Mati Foundation; Syamantak’s University of Life; Goa College of Agriculture; the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa; and the Zonal Agriculture Office, Tiswadi.
Experiential Learning at Batim Lake
The programme began at the outer premises of Batim Church, where students were welcomed by Fr. Elvis Fernandes, who introduced them to the day’s activities and facilitators.
Ar. Tallulah D’Silva conducted an orientation session on water conservation, encouraging students to engage with the theme through interaction and observation.
The students then participated in an experiential nature walk at Batim Lake, facilitated by Ar. Tallulah D’Silva, Ahana Rao, Sachin Desai and Kaushal Joshi. The activity encouraged them to observe the lake’s ecosystem, including its plants, birds, insects and other forms of life.
After returning to the Panchayat Hall, students shared their observations and reflections. Their discussions covered global warming, biodiversity, water conservation, pollution, waste management and the importance of protecting natural habitats. While appreciating the natural beauty of Batim Lake, several participants also raised concerns about garbage and pollution in and around water bodies.
The morning session concluded with the Sadbhav Pledge, led by Ar. Tallulah D’Silva, with students and teachers joining in the recitation.
Community Lunch Celebrates Goan Traditions
A special highlight of the event was a community lunch featuring traditional Goan delicacies. Students, facilitators, farmers and villagers from seven village panchayats shared the meal, which was served on eco-friendly plates.
The arrangement reflected the Mahotsav’s emphasis on environmental responsibility while bringing participants together through local food and community fellowship.
Dhamapur Lake and the Value of Ecosystems
The post-lunch programme opened with a presentation and short film on Dhamapur Lake by Kaushal Joshi, a young musician and experiential-education practitioner associated with the University of Life and President of Kokan Routes.
His presentation highlighted lake conservation, sustainable environmental practices and the relationship between local ecosystems and livelihoods. The session was moderated by Mr. Nevil Alphonso, former Director of the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa.
This was followed by an interactive session led by Ms. Kiran Dhingra, IAS (Retd.), focusing on the ecological and economic value of ecosystems and the role of policymaking. Participants were encouraged to consider how natural resources contribute to local economies and why informed approaches are essential for their long-term protection.
Fugdi Brings the Mahotsav to a Cultural Close
The Mahotsav concluded with a vibrant performance of Fugdi, the traditional Goan folk dance, presented by villagers of Moulla, Batim.
The performance brought a strong cultural dimension to the programme, connecting environmental awareness with local traditions and collective participation. Mementos were presented to the resource persons and farmers in appreciation of their contributions, followed by the vote of thanks, tea and fellowship.
Building a Shared Responsibility for the Future
Sadbhav Mahotsav 2026 provided a platform for students and community members to explore environmental challenges through observation, discussion and cultural participation.
By bringing together educational institutions, government agricultural bodies, community organisations, farmers and local residents, the initiative reinforced the message of “Valuing Water, Securing Tomorrow.” It also highlighted the importance of linking water conservation and ecosystem protection with sustainable livelihoods, cultural heritage and shared community responsibility.
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