ICAR- CCARI, Goa Participated in the National Workshop on Advancing India’s 30 × 30 Target

    ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, participated in the National Workshop on “Advancing India’s 30 × 30 Target by exploring other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs)” during 26- 27, June 2024, in Panjim, Goa. The main objective of the workshop was to understand the current status of Target 3, particularly regarding OECMs, and to discuss the challenges and opportunities in meeting the 30×30 Target. The programme was inaugurated by Chief Guest Mr. Aleixo Sequeira, Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Goa. In his inaugural address, he stressed the importance of conserving OECMs for sustainable livelihoods and development, emphasizing the conservation of sacred groves to achieve the 30×30 Target. Guest of Honour Mr. Kamal Datta, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Forest Department, Goa, provided an overview of the protected areas scenario in Goa. He highlighted the need for prioritized efforts to conserve sacred groves, rice cultivation on riverbeds (Puran sheti), and the protection of comunidade (community owned land) and Khazan lands. These efforts will also help in conserving local and traditional rice cultivars, thereby enhancing rural livelihoods and sustainable development. Mr. C. Achalender Reddy, Chairperson, NBA; Mr. Raghu Kumar Kodali, Scientist-G, MoEF&CC; and Dr. Pradip Sarmokadam, Member Secretary, GSBB, were also present and addressed the audience. Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, Goa, and Dr. Uthappa A.R., Scientist (Agroforestry), actively participated in the workshop and provided valuable inputs to achieve the 30×30 Target.