Panaji: A new chapter in Goa’s agricultural journey is taking shape, as Bicholim’s farmer producer organisation (FPO) looks towards Germany for inspiration in modern farming and sustainable agricultural development.The FPO has targeted 1,200 hectares of barren land for cultivation and is exploring modern mechanised farming techniques and agro-tourism opportunities with technical guidance from German experts.A four-day training programme conducted by a team of German experts for FPO officials concluded on Friday. The programme, organised through Bicholim FPO, focused on introducing modern agricultural practices, mechanisation and infrastructure models followed in Germany, particularly in organic farming and sustainable agriculture.Dr Thomas Wilde of Augmented Agriculture International Ltd. said the discussion focused on two key areas for FPOs: Agricultural value chain development, agro-tourism development and converting barren land into cultivation.The revival of abandoned fields in Goa could be the inception of a green renaissance rooted in tradition and nurtured by technology. The programme envisions a vibrant future of spice plantations and agro-tourism, blending agriculture with enterprise and rural experiences.Bicholim farmer Vishwambar Gawas said preparations are under way, with the training offering technical inputs and a roadmap for the initiative. “The FPO engaged the German experts to share their expertise in agricultural mechanisation and infrastructure development,” he said.“The proposed initiative will require govt support to provide funding in collaboration with the agriculture department,” he added.As preparations to bring fallow land back under cultivation gather momentum, the initiative promises renewed productivity and rural prosperity.
