Tag: Goa Forest Development Corporation

Politics

118th GFDC Board Meeting Chaired by Dr. Deviya Rane Reviews Goa Forest Diversity Festival, Charts Roadmap for Sustainable Ecotourism

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panaji, January 2026: The 118th Board Meeting of the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) was chaired by Dr. Deviya Rane, in the presence of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Kamal Datta, Managing Director GFDC K. Ramesh Kumar, General Manager GFDC Amar Heblekar, along with other members of the Board.


The meeting included detailed deliberations on the successful conduct of the recently held Goa Forest Diversity Festival 2026, whose wide impact and outreach resonated across the State of Goa. Members reviewed the outcomes of the festival and discussed strategies to further build on its success in promoting forest conservation, biodiversity awareness and public engagement.

Key discussions also focused on strengthening and upgrading infrastructure at GFDC’s cashew plantations and ecotourism sites. Emphasis was laid on enhancing visitor facilities and activities, while exploring new avenues to expand sustainable ecotourism initiatives across the state.

Additionally, the Board deliberated on the rejuvenation of rubber plantations, with the objective of improving productivity and ensuring long-term sustainability. These initiatives are expected to contribute to enhanced livelihoods while maintaining ecological balance.

The discussions reflected GFDC’s continued commitment to conservation-driven development, livelihood generation and responsible eco-tourism, aligned with Goa’s broader vision of sustainable and environmentally conscious growth.

Social

JCI Panaji Launches “One LO Sustainable Project” with CCP and Goa Forest Department

Tanisha Cardozo

JCI Panaji has made a significant contribution to environmental conservation and sustainability by launching the “One LO Sustainable Project” in collaboration with the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and the Goa Forest Department . This community-driven initiative focused on planting several medicinal saplings across strategic locations in Panaji, with the goal of enhancing biodiversity, promoting ecological balance, and reviving traditional healing practices through the cultivation of native medicinal plants.

The project was formally inaugurated in Panaji in the presence of several dignitaries, including Mayor Rohit Monserrate, who graced the event as Chief Guest. Applauding the efforts of JCI Panaji, the Mayor highlighted how such grassroots projects are essential for the sustainable growth of the city and encouraged other youth-led organizations to join the movement for a greener Panaji.

Also attending the launch were Deu Tukaram Khavnekar (Forest Guard), Amit Rajaram Kalangutkar (Forest Guard), Gautam Kharangate (CEO, Rashtra TV), and JCI Panaji President Sandeep Kerkar, alongside a passionate group of JCI Panaji members who were instrumental in bringing the project to life.

Speaking at the event, Sandeep Kerkar emphasized the dual benefits of planting medicinal species – supporting both the environment and preserving indigenous knowledge systems related to natural healing. “Through this initiative, we aim to inspire citizens to create green spaces in their homes and neighborhoods,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with a pledge by JCI Panaji to nurture the saplings and expand the project in the coming months. The initiative aligns with the global JCI mission and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

This is a proud moment for Panaji, as civic bodies and citizen groups come together to protect and nurture the natural environment for future generations.

Entertainment

DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative Trends #1 on X: Capturing Hearts Across the Nation

allycaralgoa

The #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative has taken the digital world by storm, trending at #1 on X (formerly Twitter). Launched under the visionary leadership of Dr. Deviya Rane, Chairperson of the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), this initiative has captured hearts across the nation. The overwhelming response reflects the public’s appreciation for the innovative steps taken to uplift Goa’s cashew sector.

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The initiative promotes sustainability, value addition, and empowerment of local communities while preserving Goa’s ecological and cultural legacy. From the launch of ‘Sylvan’ branded cashew packets to the coastal plantation drive in Salcete, every aspect of the initiative showcases Dr. Rane’s commitment to Goa’s development. The ‘Sylvan’ brand is set to become a symbol of quality and excellence in Goa’s cashew industry.

The #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative focuses on empowering local communities through employment and skill development opportunities. By promoting eco-friendly practices in cashew cultivation and processing, the initiative aims to preserve Goa’s natural resources for future generations. The coastal plantation drive in Salcete is a significant step towards achieving this goal, engaging local communities in the process.

The success of the #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative is a testament to Dr. Deviya Rane’s visionary leadership and the team’s dedication. As the initiative continues to make waves, it’s clear that its impact will be felt far beyond the digital world. With its focus on sustainability, value addition, and community empowerment, the #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative is poised to make a lasting difference in Goa’s cashew sector.

The trending hashtag #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative reflects the public’s enthusiasm and appreciation for the initiative. As Goa’s cashew sector continues to grow and flourish, the #DeviyaRaneCashewInitiative will remain a shining example of innovative leadership and community-driven development.