El Nino raises climate concerns in Goa
This year the El Nino phenomenon is significantly impacting India compounding pre-monsoon heat waves and suppressing early monsoon rainfall. Although it originates in the Pacific Ocean, its effects are felt thousands of kilometers away, including in India and the State of Goa. Understanding El Nino and preparing for its consequences can help Goans reduce risks and build resilience against future climate challenges. Reduced rainfall can lead to lower reservoir levels, reduced groundwater recharge, water shortages during the summer months and stress on irrigation systems. Many villages and urban areas in Goa are already facing water shortages during peak summer. Reduced rainfall can worsen drinking water availability and water supply for agriculture. Goan farmers cultivating paddy, vegetables, fruits, and plantation crops may face lower yields, increased irrigation costs and crop stress due to prolonged dry periods. Cashew, coconut, mango, and vegetable cultivation can also be affected by changing rainfall patterns and higher temperatures. El Nino phenomenon is often associated with warmer-than-normal conditions which can lead to increased heat stress on people and livestock resulting in a higher risk of heat-related illnesses. Changes in sea temperature can influence fish migration patterns, breeding cycles, fish availability thereby impacting livelihoods of fishing communities. There is increased risk of forest fires. Water shortages, heat waves, and the environment can affect tourism in the state. While it is not possible to prevent El Nino, Goans can take steps to reduce its effects. Water conservation should become a year-round practice.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
When jamuns flourish
This summer, markets are overflowing with jamun (Indian blackberry) fruits—more than we have seen in decades. Even trees that yielded little last year are now shedding fruit in abundance. Our grandmothers had a simple explanation: When jamun trees shed fruits in such abundance during summer, that year is usually a drought year. Modern plant science calls this phenomenon masting or stress fruiting. It is nature’s survival instinct—when trees sense water stress or climatic change, they divert energy from new growth into producing seeds, ensuring the species’ continuity. The jamun’s deep taproot system allows it to detect falling groundwater levels long before humans notice. Thus, an extraordinary fruiting season may well be nature’s early warning of an approaching dry spell. This alignment of traditional knowledge with scientific insight is striking. It reminds us that wisdom passed down through generations deserves respect, especially in times of climate uncertainty. While we enjoy the bounty of jamuns, let us also heed their warning and use our water resources judiciously and wisely.
Assis Everette Telles, Margao
Pathway to wellness
International Yoga Day is observed every year on June 21 to promote the many benefits of yoga and encourage people around the world to adopt a healthier lifestyle. On this day, millions of people participate in yoga sessions organised in schools, parks, community centres and public spaces, highlighting the universal appeal of this ancient practice. Yoga is India’s priceless gift to humanity. Derived from the Sanskrit word yuj, meaning “to join” or “to unite,” yoga symbolises the harmony of mind, body and spirit. It is far more than a form of physical exercise; it is a holistic discipline that promotes physical fitness, mental clarity, emotional balance and spiritual growth. Regular practice of yoga improves flexibility, mobility, muscle strength, stamina and digestion. It also enhances concentration, reduces stress and anxiety, boosts energy levels and contributes to a positive outlook on life. Many health experts recognise yoga as an effective complementary therapy for various ailments, often helping individuals manage conditions naturally and improve their overall quality of life. The significance of yoga received global recognition when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014, proposed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
Messi rewrites records
Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a stunning hat-trick against Algeria, leading Argentina to a 3-0 victory in their FIFA World Cup opener and drawing level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose as the highest goal scorer in men’s World Cup history. The landmark performance added another chapter to the 38-year-old’s remarkable tournament legacy as he continues his record sixth World Cup campaign. Some records in sport feel permanent until Lionel Messi gets involved. The Argentina captain added another remarkable chapter to his World Cup legacy, scoring a hat-trick in a 3-0 victory over Algeria and moving level with Germany great Miroslav Klose as the highest goalscorer in men’s FIFA World Cup history.
Calicut K Subramani, Chennai
