Chief Minister, Goa launches “Swayampurna Goa – Vocal for Local” Initiative at ICAR–CCARI, Goa

14 August 2026, Goa

The Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant, launched the “Swayampurna Goa – Vocal for Local” initiative of the Government of Goa, organised by the Directorate of Agriculture, Goa, at ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, today.

The programme was attended by Shri Nikhil U. Dessai, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture), Government of Goa; Dr Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR–CCARI; Shri Chandrahas Naik Dessai, Director, Directorate of Agriculture, Goa; and Dr Suresh Kunkalikar, Principal, Goa College of Agriculture, along with Heads of various Departments of the Government of Goa, scientists and staff of ICAR–CCARI and the Directorate of Agriculture, representatives of ASSOCHAM, and members of the press and media.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr Parveen Kumar, who briefed the Chief Minister and the gathering on ICAR–CCARI’s contributions towards the “Vocal for Local” vision through conservation, promotion and sustainable utilisation of Goa’s rich agricultural and biological resources. Dr. Vinod A. Ubarhande, ACTO (Farm Superintendent), ICAR–CCARI, made a detailed presentation highlighting the Institute’s initiatives for the conservation and promotion of local Goan biodiversity, covering local crops and vegetables, livestock including indigenous cattle, buffalo and goat, poultry, indigenous fisheries and other locally important agricultural resources. The presentation also highlighted the Institute’s efforts in technology development and promotion, strengthening local production systems, capacity building and farmer support.

Shri Nikhil U. Dessai, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture), Government of Goa, highlighted the rich vegetable diversity of Goa and emphasised the need to conserve and promote locally adapted vegetable varieties. He appealed to all stakeholders and the people of Goa to recognise and support the conservation of this valuable agricultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering Dr Sawant appreciated ICAR–CCARI’s efforts in the conservation and promotion of Goan biodiversity and its wholehearted support to the “Vocal for Local” initiative. He urged the people of Goa to “Grow Local, Sell Local and Eat Local,” emphasising that promoting local products would create greater opportunities for Goan farmers, youth, SHGs and artisans while strengthening the local economy. He also called upon officials and stakeholders to take the initiative to every segment of society and ensure its reach at the grassroots level.

A technology exhibition was organised by various sections of ICAR–CCARI, showcasing technologies, products, innovations and interventions aligned with the objectives of Swayampurna Goa – Vocal for Local. The exhibition highlighted opportunities for promoting local resources, sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship and livelihoods in Goa.

The programme provided a platform for the Government of Goa, ICAR–CCARI and other stakeholders to come together towards the common vision of a self-reliant Goa. Shri Chandrahas Naik Dessai, Director, Directorate of Agriculture, Goa, proposed the vote of thanks.

(Source: ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)