Team Goemkarponn
Valpoi: In a significant step towards environmental rejuvenation and economic upliftment, the Goa Forest Development Corporation Ltd (GFDC) has launched a major cashew plantation drive in Salcete taluka.
This green initiative aims to increase the state’s green cover, revive the crucial cashew crop in the region, and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
The project has garnered strong support from the Sarpanchs and Panch members of several village panchayats, including Vellim, Carmona, Chinchinim, Betalbhatim, Varca, Cavelossim, and Majorda.
The initiative officially kicked off with the planting of a cashew seedling at Baradi Hill, Vellim, specifically on church property recorded under survey number 345/8. The inauguration was graced by notable personalities including Lodoveena Fernandes, Sarpanch of V.P. Vellim; Yash Sawardekar of Goenchi Feni, who generously sponsored the cashew seedlings; Nandakumar Parab, Managing Director of GFDC; Priest Fr. Doel Dias; Panch members of V.P. Vellim; Vilda Timblo; local residents; Abhishek Naik, RFO; and Bipin Faldessai, RFO, GFDC.
Approximately 1000 cashew seedlings are slated to be planted on Baradi Hill, with GFDC staff providing technical guidance and monitoring their growth until establishment. This ambitious undertaking is spearheaded by GFDC under the guidance and support of the Chairperson GFDC and MLA Poriem, Dr. Deviya Rane .
Over the next ten days, the green initiative will extend to the remaining six participating panchayats.
Managing Director Nandakumar Parab highlighted that this initiative, initially announced by the Chairperson during the Cashew Fest, has now taken concrete steps towards on-ground implementation. He extended his gratitude to the Sarpanch and Panch members of Vellim, Priest Fr. Dias, locals, and Vilda for their invaluable support and participation in the drive. He also thanked Yash Sawardekar, who was present, and Mac Vaz for their support to GFDC’s drive by sponsoring cashew seedlings.
Fr. Dias and Sarpanch Fernandes lauded GFDC’s efforts, expressing their appreciation for the green initiative and its Chairman. They urged locals and the people of Goa to support the expansion of cashew cultivation, particularly in coastal areas, highlighting it as a critical need for the present times. Yash Sawardekar also voiced his support, commending GFDC’s work in promoting the cashew crop and its products across Goa.
