Chicalim, July 3, 2025: The Chicalim Youth Farmers Club (CYFC) organised a Paddy Cultivation Activity on Thursday, July 3.
The initiative, which was held in the fields of Chicalim village, witnessed the participation of 55 students from Regina Mundi High School, Navy Children High School, and M.E.S Higher Secondary School, along with a few of their faculty members.
The programme commenced with an introductory session led by CYFC mentor Fr. Bolmax Pereira. In his talk, he stressed the urgent need for youth participation in agriculture. He then introduced the students to key agricultural concepts, including germination, various methods of paddy cultivation, and the differences between mechanised and traditional farming techniques.
Distinguished agricultural experts from the Department of Agriculture, Government of Goa, enhanced the educational component of the event. Among those present were Mr. Nilesh Vaigankar, Zonal Agriculture Officer, Mormugao Taluka; Mr. Mahesh, Assistant Agriculture Officer, Mormugao Taluka; and Mr. Shariff Furtado, Agriculture Officer, South Goa District.
Mr. Nilesh elaborated on the advantages of the SRI method, including improved yield, water conservation, and soil sustainability. Later, the three officers engaged with students in an interactive session, answering questions and sharing valuable insights into sustainable farming practices.
After the insightful sessions, all the participating students rolled up their sleeves and stepped barefoot into the paddy fields, ready to put their learning into practice. Guided by the CYFC team and visiting agriculture officers, they practised the SRI technique and successfully transplanted paddy saplings across an area of 1,200 square meters.
The event gained further prominence with the participation of the Hon’ble Member of Parliament for South Goa, Capt. Viriato Fernandes, who joined the students in the field and interacted with them during the activity. He praised the initiative and commended both the CYFC and the students for their enthusiasm and dedication to agriculture.
The Paddy Cultivation event concluded on a high note, with both students and teachers expressing heartfelt gratitude to CYFC and Fr. Bolmax for organising the initiative. They also pledged their continued support and a commitment to greater participation in future activities.
Ms. Alisha Pereira, Eco Club in-charge at Regina Mundi High School and Treasurer of CYFC, remarked that the paddy cultivation experience not only provided the students with valuable insights into agriculture but also fostered a deeper connection to their land, instilled a sense of responsibility, and brought immense joy in their learning.
Rhesa D’Souza, a student of Regina Mundi School, Chicalim, expressed joy over learning the SRI method of transplanting today. "We were happy to be in the field and learn something new. We would definitely like to come back to the fields and work with the CYFC members again, she stated.
After planting the saplings, all the students enthusiastically chanted “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”, reflecting their newfound respect for farmers and the land.
The day concluded with a traditional Goan meal of rice kanji (pez), pickles, and dry salted fish, prepared using locally sourced ingredients and adding a rich cultural flavour to the memorable experience.
By Shogun Fernandes
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