Goa Unveils First Biodiversity and Cultural Map

Goa is set to receive its first biodiversity and cultural features map, developed by WWF India, offering a child-friendly visual guide to 48 commonly found species and traditional art forms of the state. The map will be released at the Goa Art and Literature Festival and distributed free of cost to schools across Goa in both print and digital formats.

Designed as an educational tool, the initiative aims to strengthen environmental awareness among schoolchildren at a time when conservationists are also working on a comprehensive wildlife mapping exercise in the state.

Featuring 48 Common Species

The WWF India-Goa map highlights 48 species representing birds, mammals, reptiles, marine animals, mangroves and insects commonly found in Goa. From catfish and mangrove species to larger mammals such as the tiger, the focus remains on organisms that children are likely to encounter in their daily surroundings.

The selection deliberately avoids rare species found only in remote interiors, instead encouraging students to identify and connect with biodiversity visible in their neighbourhoods. The visual format is designed to spark curiosity and classroom discussions.

Linking Biodiversity with NEP Implementation

The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP), which emphasises experiential learning and vocational exposure. WWF India-Goa has begun training around 450 teachers in government and government-aided schools, starting from Class VI, with plans to expand to other grades as implementation progresses.

Environmental aspects linked to local vocations are being incorporated into teaching modules. The biodiversity map serves as a practical classroom aid, moving beyond one-off demonstration events to sustained learning through visual engagement.

Blending Ecology with Cultural Identity

Beyond flora and fauna, the map integrates key elements of Goa’s cultural heritage. It features Kaavi art, the traditional attire of Kunbi women, and the folk dance form Ghoddemodni. It also references local practices such as crocodile worship known as manngetapnni.

The artwork, created in a folk-indica style by artist Sudarshan Shaw, avoids cartoonish depictions while remaining visually appealing to children. The aim is to promote both ecological literacy and cultural pride through a single educational resource.

Important Facts for Exams

• Goa hosts diverse ecosystems including mangroves, coastal waters and forested Western Ghats regions.
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises experiential and vocational learning from middle school onwards.
• Kaavi art is a traditional Goan mural art form using red laterite pigment.
• Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal protection and biodiversity conservation.

Encouraging Grassroots Conservation Awareness

By placing the map on classroom walls, WWF India aims to foster regular conversations among students about species they observe in everyday life. The approach shifts environmental education from occasional entertainment-based activities to sustained engagement. The initiative marks a significant step in integrating biodiversity awareness with school curricula, strengthening grassroots conservation efforts in Goa.