Harvest shared among Curtorim farmers, reflecting community spirit
FISH FEAST: The fish harvest at Mai Tollem and the bumper catch of freshwater fish from the water body on Sunday.
MARGAO
Curtorim’s rich biodiversity, agricultural heritage, and strong community spirit were on full display on Sunday as farmers gathered at the Mai Tollem freshwater body near Carmel Chapel for their annual fish harvest.
The event turned into a moment of celebration as farmers netted a bumper catch, with smiles all around. A variety of freshwater fish, including chonak, katlu, tillapi, rahu, and other local species, were harvested in abundance, reflecting the health and sustainability of the water body.
In a notable decision underscoring community values, the Farmers’ Association chose not to sell the catch in the market. Instead, the fish were equally distributed among around 90 farmers who cultivate fields irrigated by the Mai Tollem waters. The farmers are scheduled to carry out a second round of harvesting next Sunday.
Association Chairperson Joaquim Azavedo expressed satisfaction over the yield, noting that the water from Mai Tollem plays a crucial role in irrigating surrounding agricultural fields. “The bund is traditionally closed on July 31 to store water for irrigation. This system has supported farming activities here for generations,” he said. He added that the decision to distribute the fish equally reflects the collective spirit of the farming community.
Farmer Rui Menezes also welcomed the bumper harvest, highlighting the longstanding tradition of agriculture sustained by the water body. “For years, farmers here have built and maintained bunds to store water for irrigation. In recent times, our expenses have reduced thanks to support from Curtorim MLA Reginaldo Lourenco, who has provided machinery such as tractors and harvesters,” he said. Menezes, however, appealed for assistance in desilting the water body to further improve its capacity and efficiency.
The harvest also drew visitors, including activist Savio Lopes from Chinchinim, who praised the farmers’ efforts. “People look forward to this harvest every year because the water body remains unpolluted. The farmers of Curtorim have preserved a rich tradition. Every village should maintain such water bodies for irrigation and fish farming,” he said.
Curtorim MLA Reginaldo Lourenco, who was present at the site, commended the farmers for preserving the village’s agricultural legacy. “Curtorim is known as the granary of Salcete. It is one of the few places where you still find freshwater fish from lakes and khazan lands. Farmers here continue to protect and nurture these resources, carrying forward the legacy of our ancestors,” he said.
The MLA further stated that plans are in place to strengthen bunds and protect Curtorim’s water bodies and khazan lands over the next 50 years, ensuring the sustainability of agriculture and traditional practices in the region.
The event not only highlighted a successful harvest but also showcased how traditional knowledge, community cooperation, and sustainable practices continue to thrive in Curtorim.
