Survival of fittest

When one talks about Goa, the immediate image that comes to mind are its beaches, verdant green fields amidst rich red soil and of course,  Goa also brings to mind mining which is one of the biggest bread earners for many Goans. But to the industry alone now coming to a virtual standstill, people employed in the mining industry were forced to look for alternate employment opportunities to survive.

People in Goa are known for their zest in protecting the environment which explains why there aren’t too many Industries allowed to come up in the State, not even Software parks are encouraged- to maintain its topography. Thus, employment opportunities are rare to come across but looks like Goans have hit a new revolution- the White Revolution.

The number of dairy farmers in Goa has more than doubled during the past year, boosting the production of milk by almost 20 per cent. Official statistics reveal that the production has risen from 40,000 litres per day during 2011 to 51,000 litres per day from December 2012 onwards and milk production is estimayed to hit 68,000 litres by end of fiscal 2013. The number of farmers registered under various schemes implemented by Animal Husbandry And Veterinary Services (AHVS) has increased from 6,067 last year to 15,557 in the current year.

Goa, which has a requirement of 3.5-4 lakh litres of milk everyday is largely dependent on neighbouring states for the supply, which is Maharashtra. Hopefully, with this White Revolution, the State will become self reliant and soon reach a stage of being milk surplus. This is indeed survival of the fittest at its best.