Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute at Thalainayiru in Nagapattinam district inaugurated an advanced incubation centre and training facility for farmers on Wednesday. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Fisheries Minister Anitha R. Radhakrishnan, with Minister for Law S. Reghupathy in attendance.
The newly established infrastructure, operating under the Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, includes a state-of-the-art fish processing incubation centre, a training centre, and a hostel for farmers. The total cost of these facilities is estimated to be ₹3.50 crore.
The incubation centre is specifically designed to support ventures focusing on value-added fish products. During the inauguration, Minister Anitha R. Radhakrishnan handed over a memorandum of understanding to an entrepreneur set to launch a startup within the incubation centre.
In addition to these advancements, a marine engineering workshop was also inaugurated as part of the new infrastructure. The development aims to enhance the capabilities of the fisheries college and promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of fishery.
During the ceremony, Minister Radhakrishnan distributed financial assistance from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to the family members of 29 fishermen who tragically lost their lives in road accidents. The event was attended by prominent figures including N. Gowthaman, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Board; N. Felix, Vice-Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University; and S. Balasundari, Dean (in-charge) of Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute.