St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim–Goa, through the Department of Botany, Nature Club and the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Cell, in association with the Khazan Society of Goa, organized an educational field visit titled “Explore Khazans: A Unique Heritage of Goa” on 2nd February 2026. The programme was conducted from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Khazan fields in and around Cortalim, with the objective of providing students with hands-on exposure to Goa’s unique ecological and cultural heritage.

A total of 40 participants from the college actively participated in the field visit. The session was guided by Ar.Tallulah DSilva, member, Khazan Society of Goa, who shared detailed insights into the concept, structure, and functioning of khazans. She explained the traditional water management system, the role of bunds and sluice gates, and how local communities have sustainably used khazans for agriculture, fisheries, and salt-tolerant ecosystems over generations. The information shared was highly informative and beneficial, helping students connect theoretical knowledge with real-world practices. At the venue, Mr. Santan Muniz, caretaker and
khazan farmer of Sancoale khazans, along with Deepu Sathyan, arranged a traditional ‘Ponnel’ boat ride through the shallow waterways surrounded by mangroves. The students and other participants thoroughly enjoyed the experience and also learned the skill of maintaining balance while boarding and traveling in the small boat.

As part of nature-based learning and the Indian Knowledge System initiative, students got the opportunity to experience the natural surroundings of the khazan fields and understand their ecological significance. Khazans represent an indigenous system of land and water management that reflects the wisdom of traditional Goan communities. They play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, preventing saline intrusion, supporting agriculture, and sustaining livelihoods, thereby highlighting the importance of conserving such heritage systems.

The programme was coordinated by Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, Coordinator of the Nature Club and Department of Botany, along with Ms. Manali Acharya, Coordinator of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Cell, who actively accompanied and guided the students throughout the visit. The event was successfully conducted with the financial support of the Goa State Council of Science & Technology (GCST), Department of Science, Technology & Waste Management, Government of Goa.

Overall, the field visit proved to be an enriching learning experience that enhanced students’ awareness of environmental conservation, traditional knowledge systems, and Goa’s unique khazan heritage, making the programme both educational and memorable.