OLD GOA
Charles D’Souza has introduced a concept of a permanent structure and fishing nets to boost the production of climber crops like bitter gourd, bottle gourd and gherkins (tedlim).
“Traditionally, the Goan farmers prepare a temporary structure (matou) to grow the climbers which have to be rebuilt every year. All this is time and money consuming,” D’Souza said.
Showing his permanent structure built of steel, D’Souza said that this structure lasts for around 10 years and is three times taller than the traditional temporary structure.
“Due to this, the climbers get more space to grow and the yield is three times the normal yield, thereby bringing in triple income,” he stated.
“In fact, farmers in Belgaum use the technique and Goan farmers should definitely try it.”
D’Souza also informed that he uses seeds from Belgaum to grow various vegetables on his farm as they are of good quality.
He then showed a patch of land where corn crop has been cultivated. “Being a tourist place, Goa has a huge demand for corn
and therefore, farmers should try corn farming as it is financially rewarding,” he added.
