It has been a case of rampant degradation and destruction of the state’s environment which has raised visions of this coastal tourist destination going the Wayanad way
Development, as we all know, is anything but building the spectacular over the existing which most often entails destruction.
Goa is in the throes of such a ‘destruction’ aimed at developing the present landscape into one that is a tourist’s delight with amenities that encompasses the latest technology has to offer.
The clamour by activists against almost all such ventures proposed in the state is an indication of the concerns against such developments, which can only have its own ramifications especially the environmental consequences that will loom large over the expanse in the wake of such disastrous exercises.
It is no secret that Goa’s overindulgence in fostering its economic growth has had devastating effects on its environment. Moreover, the development mantra that the state has been following relentlessly has not been in keeping with the principles of sustainable growth.
As a theory that describes economic growth that improves the quality of life for society without depleting resources or causing environmental problems, sustainable growth has never been a consideration when thought of from the perspective of Goa’s development.
It has been a case of rampant degradation and destruction of the state’s environment which has raised visions of Goa going the
Wayanad way.
With environmental activists upping the ante against the government’s allegedly infeasible and insensitive projects which could do more harm than good for the region, the public angst against such highhandedness is clearly in evidence of a new awakening where Goa’s interest have started featuring as a top priority for the locals.
At the same time, it needs to be said that there were a couple of well-meaning projects which came along the way that should have seen the light of the day considering the benefits the state stood to gain were these ventures to take off.
But it is indeed unfortunate they were set aside ‘for future consideration’ in the face of some ‘antagonistic overtures’ from the locals against their very thought.
The feeling that at times too much of ‘activism’ has hurt Goa’s interests is not an isolated thought, but one that has been gaining wider acceptance among the intelligentsia as well.
For that matter, there have been murmurs of disapproval from a reasonable cross section of the society against vehement opposition against any project conceived without understanding what the proposal is
all about.
Usually such ‘storms brewing’ in various localities in the state against mega projects coming up cannot be seen as anything but instigations by external forces with vested interests, and those who usually don’t know what they are protesting for.
The ‘sheep-herd’ syndrome has invariably formed the crux of many of the agitations that Goa has been witnessing the past few years.
Environmental crusades demand a thorough knowledge of the perceived environmental threats with campaigners who warn authorities against implementing a particular project doing so after studying and understanding the possible repercussions. They are never
impromptu acts!
It is however observed that the level of people’s knowledge of environmental issues, support for efforts to solve the problems, as well as the level of willingness to contribute to their solutions is bare minimum.
As a collective effort to protect the environment and promote a harmonious living environment for future generations, it is of paramount importance that sufficient curiosity and a sense of responsibility is infused in young minds at a very early age about the environment.
Some months back I was invited to a ‘science fiesta’ organised by a school in Vasco. There were many exhibits which brought to the fore the curiosity of the young students on environmental matters but I observed that their knowledge of the subject was restricted to what they read from books.
After interacting with some of the students at the exhibition, I realised that coping with environmental concerns would be quite a challenge for the future generation considering the insignificant knowledge they are imparted about saving our environment at the school-level.
Is this because basic skills of observation, association, comparison etc are not developed adequately and appropriately at the right age!
Hence environmental education at schools is very vital, and in order to achieve environmental literacy a new curriculum with a more holistic approach is necessary.
Schools have to adopt practical methods and relate to real-life issues and local situations. Under sustainable development goals, localisation is a must. Addressing local environmental issues and working on simple solutions need to be given
due importance.
Besides the prescribed syllabus, according to an article on this subject, it would also be beneficial to the students if the education ministry decides to implement hands-on initiatives for students. Outdoor exposure to inspire environmental awareness and action will be of immense help to the students as well.
By helping them understand, make informed decisions and take action on environmental issues, students are being empowered to change the direction of sustainable lifestyles. Such activities will help them become critical thinkers and be responsible for their
natural environment.
As Goa battles to preserve its identity, it is necessary that there is no dearth of young minds with proper knowledge of the issues at stake to take up the cause.
(Pachu Menon is a senior columnist and author based in Goa.)
