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The Fishery department in Manipur has issued a stern notice to encroachers, demanding the immediate evacuation of the Takmu Experimental Fish Farm located at Sendra in Bishnupur district, Manipur. The director of Fishery, H. Balkrisna Singh, served the eviction notice on Tuesday, emphasizing that any encroachment within the farm’s boundaries is considered illegal and strictly prohibited.

The notice highlighted unauthorized activities, including the construction and expansion of fishery ponds, establishment of floating home stays and resorts, erection of ring bunds utilizing phumdis (floating biomass) as boundaries, plantation of lotus and water lily, and the initiation of Pen culture and Cage culture without proper permissions. Additionally, the unauthorized use of private boats for ferrying tourists was noted.

The Takmu Experimental Fish Farm, spanning 500 hectares in Bishnupur, falls under the control and supervision of the Fishery department, aimed at sustainable development of fisheries activities and the betterment of the livelihoods of local communities around Lake Loktak.

The government observed a concerning deterioration of the lake’s environment and ecosystem due to increasing encroachments within its natural boundaries. The construction of home-stays on phumdis, establishment of pen and cage culture, and the use of phumdis for ring bunds have led to a proliferation of phumdis and weeds inside the lake. This poses a serious threat to locals relying on the lake water for drinking purposes. Large-scale plantation of lotus, water lily, and other plants has further degraded the lake’s environment and hindered fisheries development.

The director emphasized that the eviction notice serves as a warning for all concerned parties to vacate any structures erected within the lake immediately. Failure to comply will result in the initiation of an “Eviction Drive” by the Fishery department, in coordination with the district deputy commissioner and superintendent of police.

Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu: The Pazhayar Fishing Harbour in Mayiladuthurai district is poised for a significant infrastructural boost under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), as the State government grants administrative approval for upgrading works. Pazhayar fishing harbour, strategically located at the confluence of the Kollidam and Pazhayar rivers into the Bay of Bengal, is one of the state’s four medium-sized fishing harbours and a crucial estuary due to its proximity to the mangrove forest habitat.

Official sources reveal that the government has allocated ₹26.26 crore under PMMSY to enhance the infrastructure at Pazhayar fishing harbour. The ongoing preliminary work includes the construction of a 180-metre-long Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) diaphragm wall, a 30-tonne-capacity ice plant for cold storage facilities, and an 80-metre retaining wall.

However, amidst these developments, local protestors are advocating for improvements in additional amenities at the fishing port. Activist J. Deepak Vasanth emphasizes the need to widen the congested approach route to Pazhayar, especially considering the substantial movement of vehicles. Addressing concerns about sewage water causing unpleasant odors and an unsanitary environment, Vasanth calls for measures to alleviate these issues.

Furthermore, protestors highlight the necessity of enhancing parking facilities for trucks that come to load the catch. These improvements are seen as essential for optimizing the operational efficiency of Pazhayar Fishing Harbour.

Simultaneously, the construction of a fishing harbour in Tharangambadi is in progress, funded at a cost of ₹120 crore through the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). The official overseeing the project indicates that breakwater structures, 340 metres long on the northern side and 1,070 metres long on the southern side, are nearing completion. This development aligns with broader efforts to bolster the fisheries infrastructure in the region and promote sustainable practices.

Kochi: In celebration of its 75th anniversary, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) unveiled a commemorative stamp and special postal cover, underscoring the institute’s profound legacy and impactful contributions to marine fisheries research and development. The official release ceremony took place in Kochi on Monday, with Sayeed Rashid, IPoS, Postmaster General, Kochi, presenting the stamp and cover to                A. Gopalakrishnan, Director, CMFRI.

The special release includes 5,000 sheets of stamps, each containing 12 stamps, making them sought-after collectibles for philatelists and marine enthusiasts. The stamp’s design features the inscription ‘75 Years of Research Excellence,’ encapsulating CMFRI’s dedication to marine research. The design also incorporates the institute’s logo and an image of the CMFRI headquarters in Kochi.

Established in 1947, CMFRI has evolved from a modest beginning to become a global leader in tropical marine fisheries and mariculture research. Currently, the institute operates 11 regional research centres along the peninsular coast and additional field centres and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK).

Gopalakrishnan expressed pride in the institute’s achievements, stating, “This is a proud moment for CMFRI as it is a testament to the institute’s unwavering commitment to advancing marine fisheries and mariculture research and development for the socio-economic betterment of the coastal communities.”

Under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), CMFRI has played a pivotal role in marine fisheries research, contributing significantly to sustaining marine fish production and managing the sector in the Indian Ocean region. The institute’s efforts have positively impacted the livelihoods of nearly 40 lakh fisherfolks in India.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu: A staggering two tonnes of lifeless fish were discovered and removed from the Kapaleeswarar temple tank in Mylapore on Monday. The incident, shrouded in mystery, has left residents questioning the sudden demise of the aquatic inhabitants. The alarm was raised by locals after a foul stench emanated from the tank around 10 pm on Sunday, following the Karthigai Deepam festival.

The temple tank, under the administration of the HR&CE department, prompted immediate action from authorities upon notification. Residents speculate that the oil used in thousands of lamps during the festival may have seeped into the water, causing the mass fish deaths. Officials are also considering the possibility that leftover oil washed into the tank due to heavy rain on Sunday.

Kavinitha, the Joint Commissioner of Kapaleeswarar temple, acknowledged that a significant number of fish deaths occur in the tank during the rainy season each year. Preliminary investigations suggest that external pollutants, possibly carried by rainwater, may have entered the tank. Water samples have been sent for detailed testing, and the fisheries department has been called upon to provide a comprehensive report on the incident.

Further actions will be taken based on their recommendations. The community remains on edge as they await answers to the mysterious demise of the temple tank’s aquatic residents.

The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has initiated a transformative project to revamp Bhaucha Dhakka in Mazgaon, converting it into a cutting-edge fish terminal. The foundation stone for this ambitious undertaking was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the prestigious Maritime India Summit 2023, as announced by Adesh Titarmare, Deputy Chairman of MbPA.

Originally constructed in 1979 with a capacity for 300 boats, Bhaucha Dhakka is now set to undergo a substantial expansion, aimed at accommodating approximately 1,500 boats. This expansion aligns with the MbPA’s commitment to providing improved facilities for fishermen, addressing concerns about livelihoods often associated with coastal infrastructure projects in Mumbai.

Deputy Chief Engineer Ashok Sonkusle, MbPA, highlighted the significance of the project, stating that the upgraded jetty will feature an approach road, enabling direct loading of fish onto trucks. This innovation replaces the time-consuming practice of using handcart pullers, ultimately benefiting fishermen by allowing quicker loading and ensuring better value for their perishable catch.

Under the Union government’s Sagarmala program, focusing on maritime sector infrastructure development, the Bhaucha Dhakka revamp is estimated to cost approximately Rs 102 crore and is slated for completion within two years. The project addresses the challenges of congestion and limited parking space for nearly 1,300 fishermen boats, providing a solution through the separation of passenger and fishermen boat traffic.

Furthermore, the project aligns with the MbPA’s broader vision, as they concurrently work on the construction of an International Cruise Terminal. Expected to attract foreign tourists upon completion, the terminal adds a tourism dimension to the initiative, showcasing the multifaceted impact of the Bhaucha Dhakka project beyond its immediate benefits for the fishing community.

This holistic approach not only improves infrastructure for fishermen but also positions Mumbai as a more attractive destination for international visitors, bolstering both the local economy and the city’s standing in the maritime sector.

4AM Worldwide, a leading integrated brand solutions agency, has clinched the coveted account of the Government of Andhra Pradesh’s Department of Fisheries. The agency will play a pivotal role in elevating the domestic consumption of aqua products through comprehensive value chain development and heightened visibility of the ‘Fish Andhra’ brand across Andhra Pradesh.

As part of this strategic partnership, 4AM Worldwide is entrusted with the responsibility of crafting the brand identity and strategy, creative design, social media strategy, and digital marketing for The Department of Fisheries, Government of Andhra Pradesh. The agency will also oversee CRM management and provide technical support, marking a holistic approach to enhancing the department’s outreach.

The Department of Fisheries, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “4AM is a dynamic and innovative advertising agency, specializing in creative campaigns that captivate audiences and deliver measurable results. Their demonstrated creativity, passion, and expertise in working with government enterprises were key factors in our decision to choose them as our trusted partner.”

Highlighting the agency’s commitment to responsible fisheries management and environmental conservation, the Department added, “We believe this partnership will help us reach and engage with our stakeholders in new and impactful ways, advancing our efforts to protect and sustain aquatic resources for future generations.”

Jonathan Sreekumaran, Chief Business Officer at 4AM Worldwide, conveyed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership represents an exciting collaboration between 4AM Worldwide and the Department of Fisheries, Andhra Pradesh, who play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of our oceans and aquatic resources.”

He further emphasized the agency’s eagerness to contribute to impactful work, stating, “We look forward to doing some impactful work with the Department of Fisheries, whose efforts go beyond protecting our oceans; it’s about safeguarding the interests and livelihoods of business owners who depend on these valuable resources.”

This strategic alliance marks another milestone for 4AM Worldwide, showcasing their capabilities in the government sector and underlining their commitment to making a positive impact on issues related to fisheries and marine conservation.

Mangaluru’s fishing sector is experiencing a challenging season, with nearly 30-35% of trawl boats anchored at the Mangaluru Old Port due to a significant decline in fish catch. The fish production, which saw an increase from 2.3 lakh metric tonnes in 2020-21 to 3.3 lakh metric tonnes in 2022-23, has taken a hit, leaving boat owners reconsidering deep-sea expeditions.

Dilip Kumar, Deputy Director of Fisheries, Dakshina Kannada, pointed out that the current trend of diminished fish catch has persisted for the past 10-20 days. Unlike previous years, where fruitful catches were typical until the end of November, this year has seen a decline, prompting concerns among boat owners regarding the cost-effectiveness of fishing expeditions. The unintended pause in fishing activities during lockdown contributed to increased breeding, resulting in good catches in the preceding years. However, the impact of El Nino has led to a migration of fish shoals, further contributing to the decline.

A combination of factors, including excessive fishing, demand for trash fish by fish meal units, over-mechanization, unregulated mesh sizes, and various fishing practices, has led to a depletion in marine biodiversity. The economic aspect also plays a role, with trawlers requiring around Rs 6.5 lakh for a single voyage, necessitating substantial catches to cover costs.

Chethan Bengre, President of Mangalore Trawl Boat Meenugarara Sangha, emphasized the adverse impact of poor weather conditions, including inadequate rainfall, on the fishing situation this year. He called for a uniform fishing holiday across the Indian coast to address the challenges faced by the industry.

With approximately 1,400 deep-sea fishing boats in the district, the need for effective monitoring and regulation of fishing activities becomes crucial, especially considering the limitations due to the lack of department-owned vessels, unlike the setup in Kerala.

Source: The Times of India

Merugu Nukiah, a fisherman from Pudimadaka reeled in a rare golden fish on Monday. The extraordinary catch, weighing a whopping 27 kg, attracted a frenzy of local traders eager to harness its reputed medicinal properties. In a heated auction, merchant Merugu Kondaiah secured the coveted fish with a jaw-dropping bid of Rs. 3.90 lakhs.

The golden fish, hailed for its purported healing abilities, is said to play a crucial role in medical practices. Local sources reveal that the gall bladder of this exceptional fish is used to produce suture threads for surgical procedures, while various parts are incorporated into medicinal concoctions. Believers in the fish’s therapeutic qualities claim it can remedy a myriad of ailments, making it a sought-after commodity in the region.

This remarkable find has not only captivated the fishing community but has also sparked curiosity among health enthusiasts, turning the golden fish into a symbol of both extraordinary rarity and potential health benefits.

The Department of Fisheries, Kerala, took pride in spotlighting its commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of fishing communities at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2023. The event, led by Minister Saji Cherian, aimed at realizing the vision of “Blissful fishers and a healthy community.”

Kerala, often hailed as God’s own country, boasts a 590 km coastline and diverse waterbodies, playing a pivotal role in ecological diversity and livelihood. The Department of Fisheries, headed by the Director of Fisheries, stands dedicated to the sustainable development of both marine and inland fisheries.

The fisheries sector in Kerala significantly contributes to the state’s GDP, with marine product exports reaching a remarkable Rs 5919.02 Crores in 2017-18. Supporting a vast population, 222 fishing villages in the marine sector and 113 fishery villages inland provide livelihoods, contributing significantly to the socio-economic fabric of the state.

Executive Officers under the department, including entities like Kerala State Cooperative Federation for Fisheries Development Ltd (Matsyafed) and the Agency for Development of Aquaculture, Kerala (ADAK), collaborate to achieve the department’s mission. This mission encompasses conserving resources, ensuring nutritional security, fostering socio-economic development, ensuring safety for the fishing community, developing infrastructure, and delivering effective extension services to society.

At the IITF Trade Fair 2023, Kerala’s fisheries stole the spotlight, showcasing the state’s commitment to innovation, conservation, and community well-being. Visitors were captivated by the vibrant display of aquatic diversity and the success stories of sustainable fisheries.

The success at the IITF Trade Fair 2023 underscores Kerala’s role as a leader in fisheries, embodying the mission of “Blissful fishers and a healthy community” in every aspect of its endeavours. The event showcased Kerala’s rich aquatic heritage, its significant contribution to the economy, and the collaborative efforts towards sustainable development and community welfare in the fisheries sector.