Traditional fish harvesting turns into community event aimed at preserving farming heritage
The traditional fishing activity at the historic lake attracted many villagers and farmers, who gathered to witness the harvesting operation.
VASCO
The Pale Tollem Xetkaranche Association (PTXA) harvested a large quantity of fish from the Velsao Pale lake on Saturday and distributed most of the catch free of cost to local residents.
The traditional fishing activity at the historic lake attracted many villagers and farmers, who gathered to witness the harvesting operation.
The event turned into a community effort, with several villagers contributing fishing nets, equipment and manpower to support the operation. While many residents received fish free of cost, some traders reportedly approached the committee to buy the catch in bulk for resale in markets outside the village.
PTXA president Roquezinho D’Souza later distributed a major share of the fish among locals. Speaking to reporters, D’Souza said that although he had secured the lake auction for nearly Rs 80,000, the aim was not commercial profit but to create awareness among the younger generation about preserving traditional farming and irrigation systems.
He said the association took part in the auction mainly to educate youth about fish breeding and the importance of protecting the village’s historic lake ecosystem for future generations. “We participated in the auction to create awareness among the youth about fish breeding and the need to protect this historic lake. The younger generation must take interest in farming and continue the work started by our forefathers,” said D’Souza.
He added that several villagers and well-wishers supported the initiative by providing nets, equipment and logistical help for the harvesting operation.
“Many people came forward to help us. Some provided fishing nets, while others gave equipment and manpower. From the beginning, I made it clear that this was never a business activity, and fishing is not even my profession. I decided to distribute the fish among those who supported the initiative, along with friends and well-wishers. Some traders also approached me to buy the fish for resale in places like Margao,” he added.
Fish breeding on trial basis yields encouraging results
VASCO: Cortalim Agriculture Officer Mahesh Kankonkar said the Agriculture Department had introduced fish breeding in the lake on a trial basis and the results had been encouraging.
Kankonkar said two varieties of fish were released into the lake as part of the pilot project, and one of the varieties showed very good growth and yield.
“The second variety was released late and therefore did not grow to the expected size. From next year onwards, we will ensure that both varieties are released on time so that better results can be achieved during harvesting. I congratulate PTXA president Roquezinho D’Souza for taking the initiative and working for the welfare of farmers while introducing new ideas to support the farming community,” said Kankonkar.
