Goa’s Sadbhav Mahotsav Puts Water Conservation at Centre Stage

BATIM, Goa, October 20, 2026: Water conservation, lake protection and sustainable livelihoods took centre stage at Sadbhav Mahotsav 2026, which brought together students, farmers, educators and villagers to promote ecological awareness and community participation.

Organised by the Society of Pilar at the Batim Village Panchayat Hall under the theme “Valuing Water, Securing Tomorrow”, the event combined field-based learning, expert discussions and cultural activities to highlight the environmental and economic importance of protecting local ecosystems.

A nature walk at Batim Lake introduced students to the area’s biodiversity, including plants, birds and insects. Facilitated by Tallulah D’Silva, Ahana Rao, Sachin Desai and Kaushal Joshi, the session encouraged participants to observe the ecosystem and examine threats to natural habitats.

During a subsequent discussion, students raised concerns about global warming, water conservation, pollution and waste management. While appreciating the lake’s biodiversity, several participants pointed to garbage and pollution in and around water bodies.

The post-lunch programme explored the links between lake conservation, ecological balance and livelihoods. Kaushal Joshi, president of Kokan Routes and an experiential-education practitioner associated with Syamantak’s University of Life, presented a film and discussion on Dhamapur Lake, highlighting sustainable practices and the need to protect local water ecosystems.

Nevil Alphonso, former director of Goa’s Directorate of Agriculture, moderated the session.

Kiran Dhingra, a retired IAS officer, led an interactive discussion on the ecological and economic value of natural ecosystems and the role of policymaking in their conservation. The session examined how environmental protection is linked to sustainable development and community well-being.

The event also included a Sadbhav Pledge led by Tallulah D’Silva, while villagers from Moulla, Batim, presented the traditional Goan folk dance Fugdi, highlighting the role of local culture in community engagement.

A community lunch featuring traditional Goan dishes was served on eco-friendly plates to participants, including farmers and villagers from seven village panchayats. Resource persons and farmers were presented with mementos in recognition of their contributions.

The Society of Pilar organised the Mahotsav in collaboration with Fr Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar; Tambdi Mati Foundation; Syamantak’s University of Life; Goa College of Agriculture; the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa; and the Zonal Agriculture Office, Tiswadi.

The initiative sought to connect environmental education with practical conservation, sustainable livelihoods and local participation, emphasising the need for collective action to protect water resources for future generations.

By Catholic connect Reporter