Tag: Agricultural Heritage

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Vedanta Sesa Goa Revives Over 20 Hectares of Farmland in Maem with ‘Back to Farming’ Initiative

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Vedanta Sesa Goa – Iron Ore Goa, recognizing the need to support local farmers, has launched the ‘Back to Farming’ initiative in Maem, aimed at rejuvenating over 20 hectares of uncultivated land and empowering more than 150 farming families. The project is designed to provide critical support to agricultural activities, enhance crop yields, and encourage the younger generation to take an active interest in farming.

A key aspect of the initiative is the construction of a traditional water storage system, known locally as a ‘bandhara’, which will augment irrigation facilities and enable farmers to cultivate double crops as well as vegetables. The foundation stone for the bandhara was laid in a ceremony attended by Shri Premendra Shet, Hon’ble MLA for Maem, along with Vedanta IOG executives, Panchayat members, and community members.

Currently, factors such as high input costs, expensive farm machinery, and a declining interest in farming among the youth have left several large land tracts uncultivated. Vedanta Sesa Goa is actively mapping these areas across the villages of Mulgao, Piligao, Maem, and Bordem, providing scientific guidance, construction of fences, and water storage mechanisms to support sustainable farming practices.

Speaking at the ceremony, Shri Premendra Shet emphasized the significance of this initiative in preserving Goa’s agrarian heritage, strengthening farmer livelihoods, and ensuring sustainable rural development. Farmers, including Mr. Dilip Shet of Maem, highlighted the importance of Vedanta’s support in giving uncultivated land a second lease of life and sustaining agricultural practices for future generations.

This initiative builds on Vedanta IOG’s previous successes in Piligao, where over 20 hectares of uncultivated land were rejuvenated through the ‘Hands to Help’ farmers’ association. Similar projects are also underway in Amona and Navelim, further cementing Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, community engagement, and rural development in Goa.

Events in Goa

First-Ever Baattachem Fest (Paddy Festival) in Chinchinim Celebrates Goa’s Agricultural and Cultural Heritage

allycaralgoa

Chinchinim, Goa – February 23, 2025: The picturesque village of Chinchinim, Salcette came alive with the vibrant Baattachem Fest, a unique celebration of Goa’s agricultural traditions and rich cultural heritage curated by the festival man of Goa, Festakar Marius Fernandes and hosted by Adv. Agnelo Furtado, this landmark event brought together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate farming, sustainability, and community spirit in an atmosphere of harmony and togetherness.

The festival began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by distinguished guests, including Agnelo and Elaine Furtado, Dean Suresh Kunkalikar, Miguel Braganza, Prakash Kamat, Fr. Victor Ferrao, Alexyz and Festacar Marius Fernandes. This auspicious start set the tone for a day filled with culture, nostalgia and shared learning.

Baattachem Fest welcomed attendees from across Goa, including Corlim, Panjim, Mapusa, Divar, Nuvem, Navelim and other parts of Goa, reinforcing its spirit of inclusivity. The festival actively involved individuals with diverse skills, ensuring that it was a celebration for all, regardless of background or ability, compered and coordinated by festakar team members Prakash Kamat, Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas and Dominic D’Souza.

The stage was artistically decorated by Marcos D’mello with natural farm tools and locally coordinated by Rozario Rebello.

A key highlight of the festival was its strong commitment to zero-waste practices. By embracing eco-friendly traditions and sustainable living, Baattachem Fest set an example of how cultural celebrations can be environmentally sustainable.

One of the festival’s most engaging features was the Balçaoacheo Gozalli, a platform where Miguel Braganza, Professor Carmelito Andrade, Jovito Lopes and Fr George Quadros shared their knowledge and experiences. Visitors were transported back in time with demonstrations of traditional fishing net making, Goan bread preparation, and local delicacy cooking, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Goa’s way of life.

A spectacular Kottieacho Nach (coconut shell dance), conceptualized by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, captivated the audience, while live musical performances by Oluv and Zagor performance by Santos Rebello, Valentino Baretto and others filled the air with the melodies of classic Konkani songs, celebrating Goa’s vibrant music heritage.

The festival was also a feast for the senses, showcasing Goa’s rich culinary and artisanal traditions. Attendees explored stunning displays of Goan bread, fresh produce, fruits, and traditional percussion instruments.

Interactive workshops on local delicacies such as bread by local baker Elvina Lacerda and koyloreo by Leticia Furtado provided an immersive experience, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

As festival director Marius Fernandes nears his 100th community festival milestone, he was honoured with a commemorative Momento presented by host Adv. Agnelo Furtado. Reflecting on the festival’s success, Marius Fernandes shared:

“We are deeply grateful to our visitors, performers, and everyone who made this event possible. A special thanks to Adv. Agnelo and Elaine Furtado for their generosity in hosting us. This marks our 97th community festival, and we look forward to continuing this journey of celebrating unity.”

Baattachem Fest 2025 left a lasting legacy with a profound impact on all who attended, standing as a testament to Goa’s agricultural roots, cultural richness, inclusivity and commitment to sustainability. More than just a festival, it was a heartfelt celebration of unity in diversity, bringing the community closer in a truly special way.