ICLEI South Asia, with support from Azim Premji University, has been working on a research project on Khazans in and around urban areas and the need to conserve the same. Through the project ICLEI South Asia has developed a handbook on khazans. The handbook aims to increase awareness about the khazans and their ecological and cultural significance among students, teachers, and common citizens.
The handbook was released on 12th August 2024 at Vidya Prabodhini College by Dr Suresh Kunkalikar and Dr Bhushan Bhave.
Dr Monalisa Sen, Senior Programme Coordinator, ICLEI South Asia introduced the organisation and emphasised the significance of the project.
Rithika Fernandes, Deputy Manager, ICLEI South Asia showcased the project findings while the handbook was introduced to the audience by Shayeesh Pirankar, ICLEI South Asia.
Dr Bhushan Bhave, Principal, Vidya Prabodhini College emphasized the cultural and historical significance of khazans, dating back to the 6th century. He also stated that the youth need to be connected to carry forward such a rich heritage.
Dr Suresh Kunkalikar, Principal, Goa College of Agriculture spoke extensively about the work that has been done in Goa and highlighted the fact that the present handbook will have a lot of value. He emphasised the need to undertake collaborative research on khazans.
All the dignitaries released the handbook. This is the first handbook that simplifies khazans and attempts to bring science and culture to the masses. The handbook attempts to help build awareness and contribute to the efforts to conserve khazans in Goa.