National

Fishermen, under the aegis of the Kerala Fisheries Coordination Committee (KFCC), which represents fisheries trade unions from various political affiliations, organized a march to the headquarters of the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) on Thursday, July 18, to protest against a U.S. ban on Indian wild-caught shrimp. The ban stems from the lack of Turtle Extruder Devices (TEDs) in Indian trawl nets, which facilitate the escape of marine turtles caught in the nets.

The committee stated that fishermen’s unions plan to meet with Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian on July 22 to discuss the pressing issues. Additionally, a state team will submit a petition to Parliament next week. Former Minister for Fisheries S. Sarma inaugurated the protest march to CIFT, attributing the ban to the narrow-mindedness of the U.S. shrimp lobby.

Speakers at the protest argued that marine turtles are not typically trapped in fishing nets along India’s west coast, a claim supported by a 2019 report from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute. They also warned that Indian seafood exports to the U.S. could face additional hurdles in the name of marine mammal protection in the future.

Among the speakers at the protest were Matsya Thozhilali Congress president P. Ashokan, V. Dinakaran, Joseph Xavier Kalapurackal, and Charles George, the general secretary of the coordination committee and the Boat Owners’ Association.

Source: The Hindu

The ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar, Odisha invites applications through a walk-in interview for the engagement of 01 (One) Young Professional-I and 01 (One) Technical Assistant, purely on a contractual basis to work under the Technology Hand-holding project “Laboratory testing of the immunogenicity, toxicity and efficacy of the Aeromonas hydrophila attenuated vaccine with Indian Immunologicals Limited.” The place of work will be at ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar, as per the details given below:

Position 1: Technical Assistant (TA)

• Duration: Up to Nine months or end of the contract project
• Emolument: Rs. 15,000/- per month (Consolidated)
• Essential Qualification: +2 Vocational course in Fisheries or Aquaculture or +2 science with biology or Diploma in Fisheries Science, Animal Science, Fish Health Technician.
• Desirable Qualification: Experience in Fisheries management, fish/animal handling, Microbiology lab management will be preferred.
• Age Limit: The lower and upper age limit will be 21 and 45 years respectively, with relaxation to SC/ST/OBC & Divyang as per rules as on the date of interview.
• Date of Interview: 23.07.2024 at 10.00 AM
• Venue: ICAR-CIFA, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751002

Position 2: Young Professional-I

• Duration: Up to Nine months or end of the contract project
• Emolument: Rs. 30,000/- per month (Consolidated)
• Essential Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Public Health/ Zoology with specialization in fisheries from a recognized University.
• Desirable Qualification: Experience in Microbiological/Biotechnological techniques with Computer application will be preferred.
• Age Limit: The lower and upper age limit will be 21 and 45 years respectively, with relaxation to SC/ST/OBC & Divyang as per rules as on the date of interview.
• Date of Interview: 23.07.2024 at 10.00 AM
• Venue: ICAR-CIFA, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751002

General Instructions

Interested candidates should bring their Bio-Data (5 Copies), two passport size photographs, and one set of self-attested copies of all certificates/Mark Sheets/Experience certificates. The original certificates and proof of age and caste are to be produced at the time of the interview for verification. The selected candidate may also be required to work in rural areas and travel extensively, as per the requirement of the work. No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. No interim inquiries will be entertained. Canvassing in any form will render the candidate disqualified for the position. The above engagements are purely temporary and will stand terminated automatically after completion of the period indicated in the selection offer or otherwise intimated subsequently subject to the willingness of the candidate. The candidate will not have any right for absorption in ICAR-CIFA/ICAR. The selected candidate may have to join immediately. The Director, ICAR-CIFA reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process. The decision of the Director will be final and binding in all respects.

For further details, please visit ICAR-CIFA website: http://www.cifa.nic.in.

Aqua Doctor Solutions and Aqua One Center recently held a 3-day Non-Residential Training Program on “Integrated Fish Farming for Better Livelihoods” in BaraKhankri Gram Panchayat, Nayagram Block, Jhargram. This initiative was supported by the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) and the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).

The training program, aimed at enhancing fish farming practices to improve livelihoods, attracted 50 participants, including Schedule Caste Tribal Rural Youths and Women from neighboring villages. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Hon’ble President Mrs. Rupa Bera and Vice President Mr. Ekadashi Mandi of the Panchayat Samiti, along with other notable dignitaries.

Special appreciation goes to Kajla Janakalyan Samity for their collaboration in hosting this impactful event in Jhargram.

The program was conducted by Dr. Debtanu Barman, Fisheries Consultant and CEO of Aqua Doctor Solutions, Kolkata. Through this training, participants gained valuable insights into integrated fish farming techniques, which are expected to significantly enhance their economic prospects and promote sustainable livelihoods in the region.

Mumbai: In a significant breakthrough for inland aquaculture, the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) has successfully developed a specialized shrimp feed for vannamei shrimp. This innovative feed, tailored for the culture of shrimp in the inland saline waters of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, marks a milestone in aquaculture advancements.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was recently signed between ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, and Falcon Feeds, Bhubaneswar, for the commercialization of this novel shrimp feed. The collaboration aims to enhance shrimp farming practices in the targeted states, ensuring better productivity and sustainability.

Dr. N.P. Sahu, along with his dedicated team of scientists and PhD students from the Fish Nutrition division, deserve accolades for this achievement. After five years of rigorous research and field demonstrations, they have developed a feed that promises to revolutionize shrimp farming in regions with saline water conditions

The specialized feed is expected to benefit thousands of farmers across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. By using this feed, farmers can achieve higher shrimp yields, improved health of the shrimp, and better economic returns. This development aligns with the broader objectives of promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and enhancing food security in India.

The collaboration between ICAR-CIFE and Falcon Feeds exemplifies the importance of research and industry partnerships in advancing agricultural technologies. It also highlights the role of ICAR-CIFE in driving innovation and supporting the aquaculture sector with scientific solutions.

As the commercialization process unfolds, it is anticipated that the adoption of this specialized shrimp feed will lead to significant improvements in the productivity and profitability of shrimp farming in inland saline water areas. The success of this initiative will undoubtedly inspire further research and development efforts aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the aquaculture industry.

In conclusion, the launch of ICAR-CIFE’s shrimp feed is a testament to the institute’s commitment to enhancing aquaculture practices in India. The innovative feed, backed by extensive research, is set to provide a substantial boost to the shrimp farming industry, benefiting farmers and contributing to the nation’s aquaculture growth.

In a significant move to enhance fish production and diversify aquaculture activities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration, in collaboration with the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture, Kodiyaghat, has announced plans to distribute Tiger Shrimp Seeds (Penaeus Monodon) to local shrimp farmers. This distribution will take place from July 22 to July 25, 2024, at nominal rates, offering a great opportunity for local farmers.

Shrimp farmers who are interested in availing this benefit are encouraged to visit the Technical Section of the Directorate of Fisheries by July 22, 2024, during working hours from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. This initiative is designed to support and boost the shrimp farming industry in the region, providing farmers with high-quality shrimp seeds to increase their yield and income.

The initiative aims to provide much-needed support to local shrimp farmers by supplying them with high-quality shrimp seeds at an affordable price. By doing so, the Department of Fisheries and the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture hope to improve the overall productivity and profitability of shrimp farming in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

With the distribution of Tiger Shrimp Seeds, farmers can expect a significant boost in their production, which will lead to higher incomes and a better standard of living. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable aquaculture practices and enhance the livelihoods of local communities involved in shrimp farming.

Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to improve their shrimp farming operations. By visiting the Technical Section of the Directorate of Fisheries by July 22, 2024, they can ensure they receive the high-quality shrimp seeds that will help them achieve greater success in their farming endeavors. This initiative marks an important step towards the growth and development of the shrimp farming industry in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

A research team from Shanghai published their latest research findings on two new species of fish in Zoosystematics and Evolution, an internationally renowned zoological journal, on July 9.

Led by Tang Wenqiao, a professor from the School of Fisheries and Life Sciences at Shanghai Ocean University, the team discovered and named two hillstream loaches from Southwest China: Beaufortia granulopinna and Beaufortia viridis.

Geographic Distribution

The two species are currently only found in mountain streams from central Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to western Yunnan Province, and are endemic to China.

Characteristics

Both species share characteristics of the Beaufortia pingi species group, including:

• Prominent vertical stripes on the lateral body.
• Pinnate-type lower lips.

These features distinguish them from other Beaufortia species.

Discovery Process

The discovery began two years ago when marine life enthusiasts found a peculiar-looking fish with a dark green body and zebra-like black stripes in a mountain stream. To classify the fish, Tang’s team conducted an investigation.

Team members collected specimens in the wild and brought them back to the school laboratory for:

• Photography
• Morphological measurements
• DNA extraction

Genetic Analysis

After mitochondrial cytb gene sequencing, the team discovered:

• The interspecific genetic distance between this fish and its closest known species is 5.2 percent. This degree of genetic differentiation indicates a new species, named Beaufortia viridis.

Meanwhile, another fish, characterized by prominent tubercles on the first six to nine pectoral fin rays in adults, was discovered in the border area between Yunnan Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

• The minimum interspecific genetic distance between this fish and the Beaufortia pingi species group based on mitochondrial cytb gene sequences is 11.15 percent. This high degree of genetic differentiation led to its classification as a new species, named Beaufortia granulopinna.

Source: Chaina Daily

In a significant recognition of his contributions to the trout farming industry, Tot Ram from Kullu district has been rated among the five best progressive trout fish farmers in the country. The accolade was presented by the Directorate of Cold Water Fisheries Research, Bhimtal, during the National Fish Farmer Day celebrations.

Vivek Chandel, the Director of the state Fisheries Department, lauded Tot Ram’s 20-year dedication to trout fishing. He highlighted Tot Ram’s achievements in trout farming, including the establishment of 15 trout raceways and a hatchery with the department’s support. Currently, Tot Ram produces approximately 15 metric tons (MT) of fish and 4.5 lakh trout ova at his farm.

“Himachal Pradesh is a leading state in trout production and ranks first in trout production in the private sector. At present, there are as many as 742 trout fish farmers in Himachal Pradesh, who produce about 1,400 MT trout fish,” stated Chandel.

National Fish Farmer Day is celebrated annually on July 10, honoring the leading fish farmers across the country. This year’s event was held at the Directorate of Cold Water Fisheries Research in Bhimtal. Chandel expressed pride in Tot Ram’s national recognition and announced plans to adopt new technologies through a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate of Cold Water Fisheries Research.

Source: The Tribune

Meghalaya’s fisheries sector has surged with remarkable growth, as highlighted by A. L. Hek, the Minister of Fisheries, during the 2nd Fisheries Summer Meet 2024 in Madurai, Tamil Nadu on July 12. The sector’s production skyrocketed from 4,799 MT in 2011-12 to an impressive 20,208 MT in 2023-24, marking a significant 12.33% increase. This growth underscores Meghalaya’s commitment to transforming its fisheries sector through innovative practices and strategic initiatives.

During the event, which was organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, the e-inauguration of several projects under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was announced. Among the highlighted projects were four new ventures in Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi District, including a state-of-the-art fish kiosk and biofloc ponds, valued at ₹57 lakhs. These advancements reflect the state’s dedication to expanding fish culture and boosting local aquaculture.

Minister Hek emphasised that the fisheries sector now involves over 35,000 fish farmers and spans 4,500 hectares dedicated to fish cultivation. The state has also seen a rise in per capita fish consumption to 11 kilograms over the past five years, a testament to successful programmes like the Blue Revolution and PMMSY. These initiatives have not only expanded fish cultivation by 2,299 hectares but also introduced groundbreaking technological advancements.

Looking forward, Meghalaya is set to enhance sustainable practices through the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission. The state is also dedicated to the conservation of native fish species via community-managed sanctuaries and breeding areas. Minister Hek called for increased financial support, insurance for farmers, and collaboration to tackle challenges unique to Meghalaya’s terrain.

He urged the Union Minister and relevant officials to expedite the approval of new schemes proposed since the last Summer Meet in 2023 and invited stakeholders to join hands with Meghalaya in pioneering sustainable fisheries practices. The state aims to explore unique opportunities in cave fisheries and ornamental fish to drive future growth.

India’s Bengali Chingri Malai has earned a spot-on Taste Atlas’s World’s 50 Best Seafood Dishes list, ranking at #31. This prawn curry is not just the best Indian seafood dish on the list, but also the only Indian entrant.

But do you know the interesting history and secrets behind Bengali Chingri Malai? This prawn curry is rich in both taste and tradition.

According to Chef Vaibhav Bhargava, the story of Chingri Malai is closely linked with Bengal’s cultural evolution. He pointed out the difference between East and West Bengal’s food styles. East Bengal traditionally preferred vegetarian dishes and fish cooked without onion and garlic, while West Bengal was influenced by the British East India Company. This is where Chingri Malai became popular.

Before the partition, Hilsa fish was the top choice in Bengali cuisine. However, the British preferred prawns because of their softer texture. This change in taste led to the rise of Chingri Malai, a dish fit for the British aristocracy, explained Bhargava.

Chingri Malai’s journey shows Bengal’s openness to different cultural influences. The dish includes elements from Southeast Asia, with prawns and coconut milk introduced through trade routes. The creamy texture appeals to foreign tastes, making it a bridge between traditional Bengali fish curries and a more delicate style.

This delicious prawn curry, rich with coconut milk, showcases Bengal’s culinary heritage and its ability to adapt to global tastes. The inclusion of Chingri Malai in the prestigious list highlights its unique flavor and historical importance, bringing Bengali cuisine to the world’s attention.

Source-Indianexpress.com

In a significant step towards promoting hygienic and sustainable fishing practices, the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) distributed iceboxes to fishers under the Central Government’s Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP). The event, held at the Palluruthy Block Panchayat Hall on Friday, July 12, at 3 pm, was organized in collaboration with the Palluruthy Block Panchayat.

The initiative aims to improve the living standards of fishers and ensure fish hygiene by reducing the reliance on thermocol boxes. The distribution event was inaugurated by K. J. Maxi, Member of the Legislative Assembly for the Kochi constituency. Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, presided over the function and highlighted CIFT’s ongoing efforts to uplift the livelihoods of scheduled caste fishers through various SCSP programs.

Key speakers at the event included Dr. A. Suresh, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer for SCSP at ICAR-CIFT, and Baby Thambi, President of Palluruthy Block Panchayat. Other notable attendees were K. A. Martin Xavier, Senior Scientist at ICAR-CIFT; Jemsi Biju, Chairperson of the Development Standing Committee; Sabu Thomas, Chairman of the Welfare Standing Committee; Sreekumar, Superintendent of Palluruthy Block Panchayat; and Jobi Panakkal, Vice President of Palluruthy Block Panchayat.

The distribution of iceboxes is a crucial step towards enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of inland fisheries in the region. By providing modern and hygienic storage solutions, ICAR-CIFT aims to promote better fish handling practices, which will ultimately benefit both the fishers and the consumers.

Dr. George Ninan emphasized the importance of such initiatives in improving the overall quality of life for fishers and ensuring the sustainability of fishing practices. The event concluded with a call for continued support and collaboration to further advance the cause of sustainable fishing in India.

This icebox distribution initiative by ICAR-CIFT marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainable fishing practices and improving the livelihoods of fishers in Kochi and surrounding areas.