Goa has achieved a remarkable milestone in its biodiversity journey with the official documentation of the Indian Courser, now recognised as the 500th bird species recorded from the state. The sighting was reported by wildlife enthusiast Quepelio De Souza on 11 February 2026, drawing attention from birdwatchers and conservationists alike.
The Indian Courser, a Schedule-1 protected species, is known to inhabit dry, stony scrublands and rocky grassland habitats — landscapes often overlooked in conservation discussions compared to forests and wetlands. Its presence in Goa underscores the ecological significance of plateau ecosystems that support unique and specialised wildlife.
Experts note that plateau habitats across Goa are under increasing pressure from development activities and changing land use patterns. The recording of this species serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity these areas sustain and the urgent need for thoughtful conservation strategies.
Birding communities have welcomed the milestone, describing it as a testament to Goa’s diverse habitats ranging from coastal wetlands to inland plateaus. The documentation also reflects the growing contribution of citizen scientists and local observers in tracking and preserving wildlife records.
With this addition, Goa joins an elite group of regions recognised for their high avian diversity, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a significant destination for birdwatching and ecological research.
Panaji, January 17, 2026: The inaugural edition of the Goa Forest Diversity Festival 2026 was formally inaugurated today by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, in the presence of Union Minister Shripad Naik, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane, Minister for Tourism Rohan Khaunte, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Kamal Datta.
Dedicated to the forests of Goa and the communities that have lived in harmony with them for generations, the festival brings together culture, tradition and conservation on a single platform. More than a celebration, the initiative seeks to create a dialogue and collective commitment towards understanding and safeguarding Goa’s rich forest biodiversity.
The festival aims to connect people with forests not through statistics alone, but through stories, food, art, performances and lived experiences. One of its most distinctive highlights is the Angon Experience—an immersive traditional space featuring live demonstrations by Chanekars, Khajekars, traditional coconut craftsmen, clay potters, gardening experts, Kokedama artists and other local artisans who reflect sustainable practices passed down through generations.
The Forest Kitchen, described as the soul of the festival, showcases tribal and traditional cuisine prepared by forest communities and Self-Help Groups. These recipes reflect seasonality, ecology and respect for nature, underscoring how sustainability has long been embedded in traditional ways of life.
Another major attraction is the Green Bazaar, curated with stalls offering eco-friendly products and forest-based goods that support local artisans and sustainable livelihoods. The initiative reinforces the message that conservation and economic opportunity can coexist.
Throughout the festival, visitors experience a seamless blend of culture and conservation, with strong green messaging such as Mhaka Naka Plastic. The opening ceremony featured performances by Sonia Shirsat and her orchestra, followed by Morulo Dance, Katti Fugdi, a Jagor Act and a forest-themed light show by Vajra Aigal.
Addressing the gathering, Chairperson Dr. Deviya Rane highlighted that the festival provides a unique platform for tribal communities and Self-Help Groups to showcase forest-inspired cuisine and culture. She emphasised the importance of sensitising youth and citizens to issues such as plastic pollution, wildlife protection and sustainable living, noting that conservation requires active community participation beyond legislation.
Dr. Rane also outlined plans to create a Mini Forest in the heart of the city, envisioned as a living public space where nature, livelihoods and community converge. As part of this initiative, 20 festival stalls will be converted into permanent structures to support Self-Help Groups, local artisans, forest-based producers and eco-entrepreneurs, creating a regular marketplace that promotes sustainable livelihoods and green entrepreneurship.
The festival also witnessed the launch of the coffee table book “Forest Recipes of Goa, Stories of Tribal Food”, a photo-essay by Ms. Assavri Kulkarni, published by the Goa Forest Development Corporation. Another highlight was the release of the wildlife documentary “Falling off the Radar, Waterfalls of Goa”, directed by wildlife photographer and filmmaker Mr. Giri Cavale and produced by the StoryLark team.
The Goa Forest Diversity Festival 2026 stands as a celebration of Goa’s natural heritage while reinforcing the shared responsibility of conserving forests for future generations.
CHICALIM, GOA – June 8, 2025 In a landmark moment for grassroots environmental and cultural advocacy in Goa, the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders officially launched their new website at a vibrant function held at Chicalim. The digital platform, developed with the aim of preserving and promoting Goa’s biodiversity, folklore, and village heritage, marks a significant step forward in community-driven conservation and education.
The event was graced by Mr. Daniel D’Souza, President of the Botanical Society of Goa, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Jack Mascarenhas, President of Goyche Fudle Pilghe Khatir (GFPK), as Guest of Honour. They were joined by Mr. Cyril A. Fernandes, President of the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, and Adv. Fr. Micael A. Fernandes, General Secretary of the group.
🌍 A Digital Archive of Goa’s Natural and Cultural Wealth
Unveiling the website, Mr. Cyril Fernandes highlighted the rich and diverse content it houses. From the biodiversity of Chicalim, Dabolim, and St. Jacinto Island, to village history, heritage landmarks, and hidden natural treasures, the platform offers a virtual gateway into the heart of Goa’s lesser-known wonders.
A standout feature is the digital archive of Konkani riddles collected and featured in the group’s popular contest ‘Parkonnem – Kitem Tem Sang’, now made accessible to the global Goan diaspora at the click of a button.
Also featured are traditional Goan folk dances such as Fuggdi, Dhalo, Zagor, Kunbbi Naach, Dhangar Naach, Divli Naach, Mando, and Morulo, along with visual content on local fauna and flora—including wild animals, birds, butterflies, fishes, and a vibrant collection of wildflowers photographed and documented by Bio-Crusader members over the past three years.
“This is more than a website; it’s a living library of Goa’s soul,” said Fernandes.
🎓 A Learning Tool for Students and a Resource for All
The primary goal of the platform is to offer Goan students a ready reference to support school projects, ecological awareness, and cultural knowledge. The launch was symbolically officiated by students Miss Leanne Viegas of St. Andrew’s School (ICSE) and Master Divesh C. Kalangutkar, who were given the honor of being the first to access the site.
“I feel lucky to be the first student to explore this beautiful website. It’s so colourful and full of interesting things about Goa,” said Leanne.
🌟 Guest Speakers Praise the Initiative
Mr. Daniel D’Souza lauded the Bio-Crusaders’ commitment, stating that this might be the first village group in Goa to create such a comprehensive digital archive. He encouraged other communities to follow this proactive model of environmental and cultural preservation.
Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Jack Mascarenhas of GFPK emphasized that the site provides a unique opportunity for Goans of all ages to reconnect with their roots, observe local species, and cherish traditional knowledge—an effort commendably initiated not by institutions, but by the community itself.
“When local people take charge of preserving their biodiversity, the impact is lasting. This is Goa showing the way forward,” he said.
📈 A Growing Movement Since 2018
Adv. Fr. Micael Fernandes, General Secretary, opened the function with a comprehensive review of the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders’ journey since their formation in 2018. From organizing eco-walks to cultural contests and biodiversity documentation, the group has steadily grown into one of Goa’s most respected grassroots conservation movements.
The evening was elegantly compered by Mrs. Cynthia D’Souza Silveira, and a warm vote of thanks was delivered by Mrs. Vinny Fernandes, who expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, and service providers for supporting the group’s latest milestone.
