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K V Rao, Chairman and Managing Director of Kakinada Seaports Limited, has lodged a complaint with the Andhra Pradesh Crime Investigation Department (CID) accusing YSRCP Rajya Sabha MP Vijay Sai Reddy and senior officials of the Aurobindo Group of forcibly acquiring a significant stake in Kakinada Seaport and Kakinada SEZ.

The FIR alleges that YSRCP chief and former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy orchestrated the transfer of shares under duress. Rao claims he was coerced into transferring shares through threats of legal action against him and his family.

Rao states that after the YSRCP came to power in 2019, audits, including a forensic review, were ordered on Kakinada Seaports Limited. The company served as the concessionaire for the development and operation of Kakinada Deep Water Port. According to the FIR, the audit reportedly uncovered accounting discrepancies that deprived the government of approximately ₹1,000 crore in revenue between 2014-15 and 2018-19.

In May 2020, Rajya Sabha MP Vijay Sai Reddy allegedly informed Rao that Vikranth Reddy, the son of MP Y V Subba Reddy, would facilitate the acquisition of shares. Rao was reportedly told the shares were being acquired for Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy.

Despite Rao’s attempts to meet with Jagan Mohan Reddy, he claims he was unsuccessful. The shares were ultimately transferred to Aurobindo Realty and Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, which is now known as Auro Infra Private Limited. Rao alleges that 41.12% of Kakinada Seaports Limited, valued at ₹2,500 crore, was acquired for only ₹494 crore.

Rao further alleges that the deal was overseen by Sharath Chandra Reddy, a director at Aurobindo Pharma, and Vikranth Reddy. In September 2020, after the alleged acquisition, Rao was taken to meet Jagan Mohan Reddy, who reportedly instructed him to comply with Vikranth Reddy’s directives.

The allegations bring to light serious accusations involving political and business elites. The CID is expected to investigate the claims thoroughly, as the case involves large-scale financial and administrative implications. Further updates are awaited as the investigation unfolds.

Source: The Economics Times

The coelacanth, an ancient fish believed to have gone extinct 65–70 million years ago, made an unexpected return to the world of the living. Once thought to be a relic of the past, this prehistoric creature was rediscovered in 1938 near a small South African fishing village, sparking astonishment and intrigue within the global scientific community.

The coelacanth dates back an astonishing 400 million years, making it one of the oldest known species still in existence. Its unaltered form over millennia classifies it as part of the “Lazarus taxon,” a term for species that vanish from the fossil record only to reappear unchanged millions of years later.

This marine wonder was first rediscovered when a local fisherman unknowingly caught it near the Chalumna River. The specimen, handed to museum worker Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer, caught the attention of marine expert James Leonard Brierly Smith. His famous telegram response—”Preserve the skeleton and gills!”—marked the beginning of a historic revelation.

Why Is It So Special?

1. Evolutionary Links: The coelacanth’s pectoral fins resemble early limb structures, offering a glimpse into the evolutionary leap from aquatic to terrestrial life.
2. Deep-Sea Survival: Residing in underwater caves at depths that deter predators and drastic environmental changes, coelacanths have adapted perfectly to their stable habitats.
3. Efficient Metabolism: This species can endure food-scarce conditions, another testament to its resilience.

After the initial discovery in South Africa, another specimen surfaced 15 years later near the Comoro Islands. Further sightings in Indonesia during the 1990s led to the identification of two distinct species:

• Western Indian Ocean coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae)
• Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis)

Scientists attribute its survival to:

• Stable habitats in deep-sea caves.
• Unique physiological traits that support navigation in complex environments.
• A slow metabolism that sustains life even when food is scarce.

The coelacanth’s story is more than a tale of survival; it’s a window into Earth’s distant past and a symbol of resilience. As scientists continue to study these enigmatic creatures, they uncover secrets about evolution, biodiversity, and marine ecosystems.

The coelacanth reminds us that the natural world holds mysteries waiting to be discovered, inspiring awe and respect for life’s enduring adaptability.

Source: UNIONRAYO

The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) hosted a high-level delegation from the European Union (EU) as part of the EU Research & Innovation Counsellor’s regional visit to Kerala from December 2-5, 2024. The delegation aimed to enhance research and innovation collaboration between the EU, its Member States, and leading Indian institutions.

Led by Mr. Pierrick Fillion-Ashida, First Counsellor and Head of Research & Innovation, EU Delegation to India, and Dr. Vivek Dham, Advisor for Research & Innovation, the team was warmly received by Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT. Senior officials and divisional heads of the institute joined the discussions.

The visit showcased ICAR-CIFT’s groundbreaking work in Marine Fisheries and Litter Management, Blue Economy initiatives, One Health and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Sustainable Fisheries Management, and Ocean Governance Standards and Policy Support. Delegates explored collaborative opportunities under Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation funding program, highlighting its potential to bolster Indian research initiatives.

Dr. George Ninan emphasized ICAR-CIFT’s dedication to sustainable fisheries and the global blue economy, expressing optimism about the mutual benefits of strengthening ties with the EU’s R&I ecosystem. He highlighted the institute’s role in tackling global challenges such as marine litter and sustainable fisheries.

Mr. Fillion-Ashida lauded ICAR-CIFT’s technological innovations and contributions, stating that partnerships like these are critical to addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development goals.

The visit included a tour of ICAR-CIFT’s advanced laboratories and facilities, providing the EU delegation with insights into ongoing projects and cutting-edge research. Representatives from WAH (Netherlands), DAAD (Germany), and EU Horizon expressed interest in future collaborations, particularly in postgraduate research and education programs.

The visit underscored the potential for impactful partnerships between ICAR-CIFT and the European Union, paving the way for advancements in fisheries technology and sustainable development initiatives.

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), Kolkata Centre, successfully conducted a 3-day skill development training programme on ‘Modern Methods of Freshwater Aquaculture’ for 20 fish farmers from Dibrugarh, Assam, from 27th – 29th November 2024. The programme was held at the Department of Fisheries, Dibrugarh.

The event was graced by Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, Director & Vice-Chancellor, ICAR-CIFE Mumbai, who emphasized the importance of modern scientific approaches in aquaculture for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of freshwater fish farming.

During the technical sessions, the farmers were introduced to a variety of key aquaculture practices, including:

• Composite fish culture
• Feeding strategies
• Water and soil quality management
• Fish disease control
• Integrated fish farming
• Nursery management

These sessions were designed to help farmers boost their profits through scientifically managed fish farming.

In addition to the theoretical knowledge, practical demonstrations were provided on:

• Water quality testing (pH, DO) using ICAR-CIFE kits
• Farm-made feed preparation

A field visit was also organized to showcase hatchery operations, live food culture, low-cost feed production, and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This hands-on experience helped the farmers gain valuable insights into enhancing their farming practices and improving their livelihoods.

In the valedictory programme, the District Fisheries Officer (DFO), Department of Fisheries, Dibrugarh addressed the participants and encouraged them to apply the scientific methods they learned in their own aquaculture practices. He emphasized the significance of adopting these new techniques to improve nutritional, economic, and social security for their families.

This training is part of ICAR-CIFE’s ongoing efforts to support and empower fish farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the evolving aquaculture industry.

After an eight-day break, fishermen from Rameswaram ventured into the sea on Monday, resuming fishing activities in the Palk Bay area. This follows the cyclone Fengal, after which the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued advisories warning fishermen from coastal districts to stay off the sea. Due to worsening weather conditions last week, the Pamban station had hoisted warnings three times between November 25 and 27.

As the rain subsided and weather conditions improved, the IMD lowered the warnings, allowing the fishermen to return to their activities. According to Fisheries Department officials, over 800 tokens were issued to fishermen, allowing them to go back to sea. On Tuesday, December 3, fishermen from Pamban were also set to resume their fishing trips in the Palk Bay.

While the weather had normalized, the authorities cautioned the fishermen to stay within the Indian Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and carry their ID cards as a precautionary measure. Due to ongoing windy conditions, fishermen were advised to remain cautious and ensure their safety within Indian territorial waters.

Since November 24, when token issuance was halted due to the adverse weather, local fish markets had seen a decrease in supply, with prices rising sharply. Fishermen reported high demand from neighboring districts and expressed hope for a good catch upon their return on Tuesday.

In Kanniyakumari district, around 30 mechanized boats out of 350 from the Chinna Muttom jetty also ventured out to sea after a five-day pause, according to local fishermen.

The tranquil backwaters of Jayakwadi Dam in Maharashtra, a lifeline for thousands of fishermen and farmers, face an uncertain future as plans for a massive floating solar farm move forward. The proposed project, set to cover 7,500 hectares of the 350-square-kilometer Nathsagar reservoir, is part of India’s ambitious goal to generate 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030. This initiative aligns with the nation’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and combat climate change.

For fisherman Nitin Birute, who casts his nets in these waters each morning to sustain his family, the project represents a looming threat. “If they cover the water with solar panels, what will happen to the fish?” Birute asks, reflecting the concerns of the 25,000 families who rely on the reservoir for their livelihoods. Local communities, particularly the Kahar community, fear that the installation of solar panels will disrupt aquatic ecosystems, reduce fish populations, and ultimately deprive them of their primary source of income and sustenance.

Floating solar farms, an emerging renewable energy technology, are often installed on reservoirs, lakes, and offshore waters. While they offer a solution for countries with limited land resources, they raise significant ecological and social concerns. Environmentalists argue that covering large water bodies with solar panels can affect sunlight penetration, alter water temperatures, and disrupt the natural behavior of aquatic species. These changes could have far-reaching consequences for biodiversity and local economies that depend on fishing and agriculture.

The proposed project has already sparked resistance. Earlier this year, hundreds of fisherfolk and their families staged protests against the floating solar farm, demanding that the government reconsider its plans. Some groups have taken their fight to court, filing legal challenges to stop the construction. “We depend on this water for our food and livelihood,” says Birute, emphasizing the community’s reliance on the reservoir.

Despite the project’s scale and its alignment with India’s renewable energy targets, details remain scarce. THDC India Limited, the state power company overseeing the initiative, has not disclosed information about the solar farm’s capacity, cost, or timeline. This lack of transparency has further fueled apprehension among the local population.

India’s drive to expand renewable energy is crucial for mitigating climate change and reducing its reliance on costly fossil-fuel imports. However, the government faces a critical challenge: balancing the need for sustainable development with the protection of vulnerable communities. Projects like the Jayakwadi floating solar farm highlight the complexities of this task.

As debates continue, the voices of affected communities and environmental experts underscore the importance of a holistic approach. Policymakers are urged to consider measures that mitigate the impact on local livelihoods and ecosystems, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of those most dependent on natural resources.

The future of Jayakwadi’s fishermen, farmers, and aquatic life hangs in the balance as the project moves from planning to potential implementation.

The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has suggested forming a separate committee of reputed government institutions to assess the suitability, safety, and design of the current breakwater layout for the Kulai harbour project. Institutions such as IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, or NIO Goa could be considered for this committee, which aims to provide a comprehensive review of the project amidst concerns raised by local fishermen.

During a recent meeting involving the NMPA and Fisheries Minister Mankal S. Vaidya, fishermen expressed apprehensions about the harbour’s impact on navigation safety, especially during monsoons. Following these concerns, the minister decided to put the project on hold until IIT Madras provides a second opinion within ten days. The NMPA’s proposal to form a new committee is part of its efforts to ensure an unbiased and conflict-free evaluation of the harbour’s design and safety.

Stakeholders and Progress

The NMPA clarified that the Director of Fisheries and NMPA should not be part of the proposed committee to avoid conflicts of interest, as they represent the project’s proponents and implementing agency, respectively. Furthermore, the process must align with regulatory norms.

The Kulai harbour project, initiated under the Sagarmala scheme, has seen extensive planning since 1998, including studies by CWPRS Pune and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) by CICEF Bengaluru. Despite securing administrative approval in 2018, the project faced delays due to consultations and recent opposition from fishermen.

Currently, 26% of the harbour’s construction is completed, with work halted since October 17 following protests. A November 27 meeting attended by the Fisheries Minister addressed fishermen’s concerns, particularly about manoeuvring country boats during the monsoon. CWPRS Pune assured that the harbour’s design ensures safe navigation even during adverse weather conditions, based on oceanographic data and model studies conducted earlier.

Background and Future Steps

The union and state governments identified the current location after analyzing four potential sites. The project is designed to support local fishing activities and enhance infrastructure under the Sagarmala scheme. Once completed, the NMPA will transfer operational and maintenance responsibilities to the state government.

While NMPA emphasized that prior consultations and studies were extensive, the proposed committee seeks to address lingering concerns and foster trust among local stakeholders. As the review progresses, stakeholders await clarity on the project’s future timeline and the resolution of fishermen’s apprehensions.

Kochi, Nov 30: The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) successfully hosted a one-day workshop titled “Millet and Fish-Based Extruded and Baked Products,” under the sponsorship of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), New Delhi. The program highlighted the innovative integration of millet and fish in food products, focusing on sustainable and health-conscious culinary advancements.

Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, inaugurated the workshop, reiterating the institute’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies in the food processing sector. Esteemed experts like Dr. Bindu J, Principal Scientist and Head of the Fish Processing Division, Dr. Remya S, Senior Scientist, and Dr. C.O. Mohan, Senior Scientist, delivered engaging sessions on the technologies and their real-world applications.

The workshop saw the participation of 25 individuals, including entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolk, who gained hands-on experience in developing extruded and baked products. Participants explored the nutritional and economic advantages of incorporating millet and fish into food products, learning techniques to create market-ready innovations.

The Zonal Technology Management – Agribusiness Incubation (ZTM-ABI) Centre at ICAR-CIFT extended its comprehensive support, offering technical consultancy, infrastructure access, and training to aspiring entrepreneurs. These efforts aim to foster sustainable businesses and create local employment opportunities, contributing to economic growth while promoting healthy food alternatives.

This workshop underscores ICAR-CIFT’s role in driving technological advancements and entrepreneurship in the fisheries and food processing sectors.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan conducted an inspection at Kakinada Port, addressing allegations of large-scale illegal transportation of rice. During his visit, he examined 1,064 tons of rice sacks loaded onto a barge, reportedly destined for illegal export to West African countries.

State Minister for Civil Supplies, Nadendla Manohar, briefed Kalyan on the persistent issue of ration rice smuggling from the port. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Kalyan posted on X, “I came to Kakinada port to check the illegal smuggling of PDS rice. A scam rampant in the last regime is still continuing. This port looks like a free-for-all with no accountability.”

Kalyan criticized the lack of oversight at the anchorage port and demanded a comprehensive investigation into the matter. He expressed concerns over the district administration and Kakinada Port Authority’s inability to prevent such activities, emphasizing that strict measures must be taken against those involved.

Drawing parallels to national security risks, Kalyan wrote, “Today it’s PDS rice smuggling; tomorrow, it could be explosives or RDX. Criminals won’t stop at rice smuggling. The erstwhile East Godavari district houses critical installations like ONGC and KG Basin. In the interest of national security, stringent measures will be implemented.”

A few days prior, under the supervision of Kakinada District Collector Shan Mohan, officials intercepted the ship Stella L Panama nine nautical miles off the coast, carrying 640 tons of rice for illegal transport. Kalyan visited the site to inspect the seized shipment. Additionally, efforts led by Civil Supplies Corporation Chairman Thota Sudhir recently prevented similar smuggling attempts, securing shipments at the port.

Expressing serious displeasure, Kalyan questioned how large-scale rice smuggling could occur undetected at Kakinada Port. He asserted that illegal activities are curbed only when public representatives intervene and called for greater accountability among officials.

Kalyan reiterated that no one is above the law and issued stern directives for immediate and stringent action against those responsible for illegal transportation of ration rice.

Tripura’s Fisheries Minister, Sudhangshu Das, announced on Thursday a Rs 10 crore proposal submitted to the North Eastern Council (NEC) to bolster fish farming in the state. The proposal includes a subsidy of Rs 56,000 for fish farmers owning at least a ‘Kani’ of water body. A state-of-the-art Aqua Park is also planned for the Satero Miah Haor area in Kailashahar subdivision of Unakoti district, targeting an annual production of 5,000 metric tonnes (MTs) of fish.

Speaking at a benefit distribution event for fish farmers held at Sukanta Academy in Agartala, Minister Das outlined the state’s fish production scenario. “Tripura requires 1.17 lakh metric tonnes of fish annually. While we produce 85,000 MTs locally, we import 32,000 MTs from Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Bangladesh. The Aqua Park project will significantly bridge this gap,” he stated.

Minister Das emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting fish farmers through various schemes:

• Matsya Sahayata Yojana: Benefited 3,000 fish farmers with Rs 6,000 each during the 2023-24 fiscal year, with plans to extend the aid to 5,500 farmers in 2024-25.
• Matsya Sampad Bikash Yojana: Includes financial assistance for water body construction and maintenance, fish feed, training, and soil and water testing.
• PM Sampada Yojana: Offers subsidies on cold storage-equipped vehicles for selling fish, with up to 60% subsidy for SC & ST women and 40% for general category farmers.

Das urged farmers to contact their local fishery offices to access these benefits and highlighted the introduction of ‘Fish Kiosks,’ four-wheeler vehicles funded by the central government for selling fresh and hygienic fish.

Addressing the challenges, Minister Das noted, “Tripura lacks large water bodies and coastal areas, but renovating unused water bodies can close the fish production gap. Pisciculture is immensely profitable, turning fishlings costing Rs 2 into fish worth Rs 300. This will also create widespread employment opportunities in the state.”

The event, presided over by Paschim Tripura Zilla Parishad Sabhadipati Balai Goswami, saw participation from key dignitaries, including MLA Mina Rani Sarkar and Fisheries Director Santosh Das. Secretary of Fisheries Department, Deepa D Nair, delivered the welcome address.

Over 650 fish farmers from Jirania, Mohanpur, and Sadar subdivisions of West Tripura district received benefits amounting to Rs 38 lakhs during the program.