Panaji is set to host a vibrant celebration of nature and conservation efforts. The Green Ray Foundation, in collaboration with the Goa State Biodiversity Board and the department of art and culture, will organise the Green Glow environmental festival on January 10.
A Festival for All Eco-Enthusiasts
This event is designed to be inclusive and educational, welcoming a diverse audience. It is open to all students, teachers, researchers, journalists, and filmmakers who are passionate about environmental issues. The foundation itself was established by the late environmentalist Maria Claudete Pinto, with a core vision to promote ecological preservation by actively engaging young minds from schools and colleges across the region.
Screenings and Skill-Building Workshops
The festival's agenda is packed with insightful and skill-oriented activities. A highlight will be the screening of two notable environmental documentaries. Attendees can watch "Little Planet: A Tale of Frogs" by Suhas Premkumar, who dedicated nearly seven years to documenting frog diversity in Karnataka's Sahyadris. The second film is Arti Kulkarni's "Turtles with Antenna", which showcases the fascinating life of Goa's olive ridley turtles.
Beyond screenings, the festival will host practical training sessions. An editing workshop conducted by journalist Niraj Prabhu aims to equip students, journalists, and documentary lovers with the skills to effectively capture birds, animals, and folk traditions using cameras or even mobile phones.
Awards and Interactive Exhibitions
The festival will also serve as a platform to honour significant contributions to environmental causes. The prestigious Maria Claudete Pinto Memorial Green Commitment Award will be conferred upon environmentalist and cartoonist Alexyz Fernandes. He is being recognised for his ongoing work, including the annual plant festival at St Francis Xavier School in Siolim.
Adding to the interactive experience, a green-skilling workshop will be held for students. Furthermore, an exhibition will display climate-themed posters and wallpapers created by eco-clubs from various schools, showcasing the creativity and awareness of the younger generation.
The event will be formally inaugurated with a keynote address delivered by Pradeep Sarmokkadam, the Member Secretary of the Goa Biodiversity Board. The Green Glow festival stands as a testament to community-driven efforts in fostering environmental stewardship and education in Goa.
