Green Niche 2.0’ Workshop Organized at Sankhali to Promote Nature-Based Lifestyles

Sankhali : The “Creating a Green Niche for a Greener Tomorrow 2.0” workshop was organized at the Sai Institute of Naturopathy, Sankhali, by the Goa State Climate Change Cell (GSCCC), functioning under the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB). Conducted under the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change (NMSKCC), the initiative aimed to raise awareness among local communities about biodiversity conservation, climate-resilient practices, and sustainable use of natural resources. The workshop also emphasized the importance of fostering eco-friendly lifestyles and generating livelihood opportunities through nature-based practices.

The programme was inaugurated by Shri Pandurang Kurtikar, Chairman of the Goa State Co-operative Bank and Sai Nursing Institute. The dignitaries were welcomed with a traditional ceremony, followed by the symbolic watering of a plant to signify their collective commitment to environmental protection. The event brought together farmers, women entrepreneurs, students, and local community members, providing them a platform to learn practical skills for sustainable living.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pradip Sarmokadam, Member Secretary of the Goa State Biodiversity Board, highlighted the relevance of the “Green Niche for a Greener Tomorrow” concept. He spoke about the value of reusing natural resources, creating eco-friendly products through simple innovations, and building sustainable livelihoods for rural women. He emphasized that such initiatives not only empower women economically but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community and environment. Padma Shri Shri Sanjay Anant Patil shared his insights from natural farming practices, motivating participants to adopt methods that are both environmentally responsible and economically beneficial.

The workshop featured practical demonstrations and skill-building sessions covering a wide range of activities, including Jeevamrut preparation, Kokedama plant arrangement, beekeeping for honey production, fish aquarium setup, mushroom cultivation, and preparation of pickles and juice from cashew apples. Participants were also introduced to various schemes offered by the Agriculture Department, along with guidance on kitchen gardening, banana fibre products, and other nature-based livelihood options. The hands-on sessions ensured participants could directly apply the techniques in their homes and farms, promoting self-reliance and sustainability.

The programme was successfully guided and supported by dignitaries Shri Pandurang Kurtikar, Padma Shri Shri Sanjay Anant Patil, Shri Ninanath Zalmi, Director of Krishi Samruddhi Farmers Producers Company Ltd., Shri Santosh Malik, Manager of Sai Nursing Institute, Dr. Manoj Borkar, Professor and Head of Department at Carmel College for Women, and Dr. Apurva Sawant.