DE SOUZA HAILS GOA’S EXEMPLARY AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT PROGRAMMES

Goa is one of the states with the best agricultural support programme in the entire country, hailed Deputy Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly Shri Joshua Peter De Souza. He was speaking after attending concluding ceremony of 7 day Training programme on Coconut Handicraft (January 11 to January 14,2024 ) organised by Directorate of Agriculture ,in association with Coconut Development Board, Government of India held at the training hall, Zonal Agricultural Office Farm Duler Mapusa today.

Speaking further, Shri De’Souza emphasized on various government’s efforts in implementing diverse schemes and providing subsidies to support farmers. He underscored Goa’s soil conditions which are ideal for the cultivation of a wide range of crops.

Addressing the attendees of the training, Shri De’Souza expressed that art holds limitless value, and the worth you assign to it reflects the dedication you give to any form of art. Expressing the situation, Shri De’Souza highlighted the existing demand for coconut handicrafts, emphasizing the lack of manpower with the necessary skills to craft this unique art. Stating that Goa is abundant with coconut trees, stretching from beaches to hills, Shri De’Souza emphasized that it is the responsibility of Goans to elevate the coconut industry.

Shri Nevil Aphonso Director, Directorate of Agriculture in his address said that this is the first training programme on Coconut handicraft making.

The aim of this training is to empower unemployed youths to create coconut handicraft products, fostering entrepreneurship. Shri Aphonso further said the Department of Agriculture is undertaking multiple measures to enhance coconut production and augment revenue.

Shri Vijaydatta Lotlikar, Master Craftsman was the resource person for the 7 day training programme. In his address, Shri Lotlikar gave a detailed introduction to the creative field of coconut handicraft making, scope and business opportunities.

Certificates and kits were distributed to participants, and Soil Moisture Indicator machines were provided to farmers for soil moisture detection. Shri Sandeep Fol Dessai, Deputy Director of Agriculture (Horticulture), was present at the event.

Ms Rupa Gawande, Assistant Agriculture office compered the function and Shri Shrikant Mone, Zonal Agriculture, extended the vote of thanks.

DI/INF/NB/AXP/AS/2024/2225