Sulcorna Village at Quepem

A visit to The Don Bosco Agro-Educational Complex in Sulcorna, run by the Salesians, is worth a visit to understand how the idea of sustainability profits the people. Salesian priest and missionary, Fr Giuseppe Moja (1915-2009) initiated the development of this 200 acres forest land at Sulcorna, donated by Mr. Humberto Mascarenhas to the Salesian order.

The idea was to relate  ecology to spirituality and people and this resulted in an unique agricultural revival of sorts in Goa.  The idea of sustainability took seed on the local Goan soil here way back in 1962, much before it became a slogan the world over.   

The total area now stands at 900 acres now houses educational institutions ranging from school to college that cater to the local Goan villages nearby besides residential students.The aura of the place is very inviting to any visitor, and has pulled me since I first visited the place as a child.

An Obelisk built in 1977, by Fr. Barucci, a theologian and scientist, doubles up as a sundial still stands in the compound of the school. Of particular interest is a small trek upto a miraculous Statue of Mary, Help of Christians atop a hill from where one can see sweeping views.

The agricultural institution is very self-sufficient while growing sugarcane, varieties of fruit trees and vegetables among others. It is quite reputable for the quality of it’s for cashew feni which is still distilled in the old lavnnicho soro method.

There is a clean stream that flows by and during non-monsoon is very pleasant for a dip. A trip there rejuvenates enough to return again.