Valpoi: Residents of Advoi village in Sattari have unanimously resolved to safeguard their cultural heritage, natural resources and traditional way of life by deciding not to sell land, houses, plots and other properties to outsiders.The resolution was adopted during a special meeting convened on Sunday at Shree Shantadurga temple, where representatives from all sections of the village came together to reaffirm their commitment to preserving Advoi’s identity while ensuring that future development remains sustainable and benefits local residents.As part of the resolution, villagers decided that agricultural land, residential properties and other immovable properties should not be sold to outsiders or external entities. However, transfers within the village community and among close relatives for genuine residential or family requirements may be considered in keeping with local customs and mutual understanding.Speakers at the meeting stressed that land is not merely an economic asset but an ancestral legacy that must be protected for future generations. They also underscored the importance of conserving forests, hills, water bodies, agricultural fields and traditional water sources to maintain the village’s ecological balance and unique heritage.Balasaheb Desai, a villager, told TOI that the resolution was not driven by any proposed project or commercial development. “There is no project coming up in Advoi. Our only concern is to prevent the destruction of our village and to preserve our heritage, natural resources and traditional way of life,” he said.He said the villagers also have the support of Bhironda panchayat, under which the village falls.
