Miguel Braganza
On February 28 we remember Dr C. V. Raman for receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics for discovering the ‘Raman Effect’ in 1928. His work helped scientists understand the movement of fertiliser nutrients and pesticides in water and within plant cells.
We also remember those who developed the early sciences of agriculture, fisheries and animal husbandry, which made it possible for human beings to settle along fertile riverbanks instead of wandering as nomads in search of food. Today, tractors, mechanical transplanters, combine harvesters and even drone mounted sprayers are used to cultivate rice in Goa. At the beginning of this millennium, such innovations seemed like science fiction, reminiscent of the works of Jules Verne, Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov. Science also explains natural phenomena and helps us overcome superstitions.
Science is needed to analyse and document crops and varieties for their uniqueness. ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute at Old Goa provides this support for the state. Goa has registered Geographical Indication tags, or GI tags for Mankurad, Hilario and Mussorad mangoes, Korgut rice, Khola and Harmal chillies, Agasaim and Taleigao brinjals, the Myndoli banana, and cashew nut, apple and Feni. Animal sciences developed methods to produce meat and milk, which later evolved into dairy technology and meat science, giving us products such as jerky beef, salted tongue and sausages. Goa is now seeking a GI tag for its choris, a unique spicy variant of the
Iberian pork sausage.
Celebrations help to popularise many things, including science. No conference, seminar, webinar or programme on radio or television could possibly match the reach of the carnival float put up by the Goa Directorate of Agriculture on millets in 2023. It was noticed by people on the streets of Panaji and Margao, and the newspapers and news channels carried the message across Goa in different languages, including the vernacular. Perhaps Shigmo will similarly popularise the new schemes of the Coconut Development Board and the increased Union Budget outlay for 2026 to 2027 aimed at rejuvenating the coconut crop, allowing another director to retire having made a meaningful impact.
Communication is a science too. It can be designed to inform, inspire and move people to action. Agriculture needs good communicators as well. Recently, the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Goa College of Agriculture joined hands to host a national seminar on agricultural extension communication in Panaji. It was attended by delegates from 23 states, and it showed how effective communication
can work wonders.
