The Society of Pilar, Goa, organised Sadbhav Mahotsav 2026 recently at the Batim Village Panchayat Hall, under the theme “Valuing Water, Securing Tomorrow.” The event was organised in collaboration with Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar; Tambdi Mati Foundation; Syamantak’s University of Life; Goa College of Agriculture; Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa; and the Zonal Agriculture Office, Tiswadi. The programme brought together school students, teachers, college students, farmers and villagers to promote environmental awareness, water conservation, sustainable livelihoods and community harmony.
The programme began at the outer premises of Batim Church with the arrival of the students and a welcome by Fr. Elvis Fernandes, who introduced them to the day’s programme and facilitators. Ar. Tallulah D’Silva then conducted an orientation session, introducing the theme of water conservation through an engaging interaction with the students.
This was followed by an experiential learning session at Batim Lake, facilitated by Ar. Tallulah D’Silva, Ahana Rao, Sachin Desai and Kaushal Joshi. The nature walk encouraged students to observe the lake ecosystem closely, including its plants, birds, insects and other forms of life. On returning to the Batim Village Panchayat Hall, the students shared their observations and reflections. Their discussions touched upon global warming, water conservation, biodiversity, pollution, waste management and the need to protect natural habitats. While appreciating the beauty and biodiversity of Batim Lake, several students also expressed concern about the garbage and pollution found in and around water bodies.
The morning session concluded with the Sadbhav Pledge led by Ar. Tallulah D’Silva, with the students and teachers joining in the recitation. A special highlight was a community lunch featuring traditional Goan delicacies, served to students, facilitators, farmers and villagers from the seven village panchayats on eco-friendly plates, reflecting the Mahotsav’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The post-lunch session began with a presentation and short film on Dhamapur Lake by Kaushal Joshi, a young musician and experiential-education practitioner associated with the University of Life and President of Kokan Routes. Through the presentation, he highlighted the importance of lake conservation, sustainable environmental practices and the relationship between local ecosystems and livelihoods. The session was moderated by Mr. Nevil Alphonso, former Director of the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa.
This was followed by an interactive session on the ecological and economic value of ecosystems and policymaking by Ms. Kiran Dhingra, IAS (Retd.). The session encouraged participants to consider the wider environmental and economic significance of natural ecosystems and the importance of informed approaches to their protection.
The Mahotsav concluded on a vibrant cultural note with Fugdi, the traditional Goan folk dance, presented by the villagers of Moulla, Batim. The performance brought a strong community dimension to the event, connecting environmental concerns with local culture and collective participation. The programme concluded with the presentation of mementos to the resource persons as well as to the farmers as a gesture of appreciation. This was followed by the Vote of Thanks, tea and fellowship. Sadbhav Mahotsav 2026 provided a platform for students and community members to engage with environmental issues through experiential learning, discussion and cultural participation. By bringing together educational institutions, government agricultural bodies, community organisations and local residents, the Mahotsav reinforced the message of “Valuing Water, Securing Tomorrow” and highlighted the close relationship between environmental conservation, sustainable livelihoods, local culture and collective responsibility towards a sustainable future.
