ICAR-KVK, CCARI, Goa and Sanquelim Municipal Corporation jointly celebrated International Women’s Day

The ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, North Goa of ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, in association with the Sanquelim Municipal Corporation, celebrated International Women's Day and Awareness program on Natural Farming at Sanquelim Municipal Hall. Chief Guest Mrs. Sawant Sulakshana Sawant, President of the All-Goa Self Help Group, Goa, commended the initiatives undertaken by ICAR to promote women's entrepreneurship. She advocated for the enhancing sustainable livelihood of women's empowerment by organizing diverse value-added agriculture production. She stressed the importance of women ensuring the consumption of healthy and nutritious food free from any residue to create a prosperous and healthy society. Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, Goa, in his address pointed out the achievements and recognition received by Goan farm women both from the state and central government. He also highlighted the efforts made by ICAR to reduce drudgery in complicated farm operations and improve the economic status of the women involved in farming in Goa and along the coastal region. He strongly asserted that women constitute over half of the global population and, by promoting gender equality, they play a fundamental role in fostering peace and advancing the development of nations and the world at large. Dr N. Bommayasamy, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK, North Goa, gave overview of the significance of celebrating International Women's Day and the valuable contributions made by women in various sectors of national development. The program also included a millet recipe competition, quiz completion besides a presentation on natural farming practices and their importance in Goan agriculture by Mr. Rahul Kulkarni, ACTO, ICAR-CCARI, Goa. A total of 196 farmwomen and members of self-help groups participated and benefited from the event. Twenty-five women participants were honoured for their exceptional contributions to society and agriculture. Mrs. Rashmi Desai, Chairperson. Sanquelim Municipal Corporation, had earlier welcomed the dignitaries. Dr. Udharwar SV, SMS (Animal Science) proposed the vote of thanks. Dr. N Bommayasamy, Dr. Udharwar S.V., Mr. Rahul Kulkarni, ACTO, and Ms. Shishira D coordinated the program.