State to expand its forest produce processing centres, engage private players
State govt has decided to involve private players to operate GoVan multi-product processing centres (MPCs) as it is planning to start 11 new MPCs in the state, including one at Agnel Ashram, Verna.
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Currently, MPCs operate at Pale and Bicholim in North Goa, and Pontemol and Curchorem in South Goa.
GoVan is a flagship initiative of Goa State Biodiversity Board, launched in 2021 under the Biological Diversity Act of 2002. It combines 'Goa' and 'Van' (forest) to reflect its dual commitment to preserving Goa's biodiversity and encouraging sustainable, non-destructive harvesting of minor forest produce. Through GoVan, govt promotes the sustainable use of Goa's biodiversity resources and links them to the livelihoods of the rural population, with a focus on empowering women.
The selected private player must develop a plan to make the MPCs cost-effective and profitable over time. They need to provide a comprehensive strategy for ensuring the functioning and sustainability of existing and future MPCs, including necessary machinery and infrastructure upgrades.
'The private players will have to propose and implement marketing and working models (financial and revenue-sharing models) to ensure the long-term viability of the centres, with strategies for profitability and self-sustainability,' a senior officer said.
GoVan centres process non-timber forest products (NTFP) such as cashew, jackfruit, bimbla, mango, kokum, and coconut into value-added goods like pickles, dried fruits, and local delicacies.
GoVan employs a systematic and sustainable approach throughout its operations, starting with non-destructive harvesting techniques that preserve crop health and ecosystem balance. After harvesting, the produce is carefully collected and transported to ensure minimal damage.
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It is then sorted and graded based on size, quality, and ripeness, followed by washing to eliminate contaminants and ensure food safety.
The produce is stored under optimal conditions to maintain freshness. For packaging and labelling, GoVan uses eco-friendly materials and provides detailed product information, highlighting the sustainability of its practices.
GoVan processes some products into value-added items, such as pickles, dried fruits, candied fruits, or local specialities like Fenori, a Goan sweet snack, that increases the market value and provides additional income opportunities for SHG women.
'This comprehensive value chain approach, from sustainable harvesting to value-added product development, not only ensures high-quality outputs but also supports GoVan's mission of promoting environmental conservation and empowering local communities,' a senior officer said.
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