‘Back to Basics’ rekindles younger generation’s connection with agricultural traditions

MARGAO: Taking serious note of the waning importance of farming; a cornerstone of Goa’s heritage among the younger generation, a group of committed friends of farmers from Cavelossim, organised a thought-provoking event ‘Back to Basics’ on Tuesday at Cavelossim. 

This gathering was specifically designed to rekindle the younger generation’s connection with the agricultural traditions that form the bedrock of their community.

The programme was coordinated by Bosco Rodrigues, a farmer from Cavelossim and the students were inspired by talks of various personalities present.

On this momentous day, 50 students from Holy Cross Institute in Cavelossim, accompanied by two teachers and a dedicated social worker, engaged in an immersive farming experience. 

‘Back to Basics’ initiative aimed at reconnecting young minds with the fundamentals of agriculture, with a focus on the practical aspects of planting paddy. 

The event provided hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to gain firsthand knowledge of traditional farming practices.

Paul Lobo, a social worker from Cavelossim, stressed the critical importance of farmers. 

“Without farmers, this world will not exist. We need to go back to basics,” he reminded the gathering.

Boaventure Vaz reminisced how his mother made ends meet through agricultural activities after the demise of his father and how the present generation should take up agricultural activities. 

Rinku Lobo urged the students to take up activities other than just surfing the social media, and exhorted them to take up activities relating to the environment. 

Joy Simoes, a graduate in agriculture, explained to the students why he took up farming as a career and how he is enjoying it.

Fr George Quadros, fondly known as Paddy Man of Goa, demonstrated modern farming techniques, shared insights into the economics of farming, and urged the students to embrace farming as a vital part of their future. 

Most students, who participated in paddy planting, pledged to avoid wasting food and to actively engage in agricultural initiatives in future.

Serafino Cota impressed upon the students that though they may be interested in careers like doctors, engineers and in the IT sector, association with agricultural activities will make them wholesome and give meaning to their lives.

Teachers Belinda Fernandes and Jayanti Paes, were instrumental in designing the programme. Many farmers from Cavelossim encouraged the students to take up agriculture.