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Kochi: The Member of Parliament Elamaram Kareem advocated for the Union government to grant permission for the State government to assume control of the Cochin Fisheries Harbour in Thoppumpady. Speaking at a protest meeting organized by a forum comprising individuals from various political backgrounds, Kareem emphasized that this transfer of authority could expedite the ongoing renovation work, which, despite commencing under Union government sponsorship, is presently near abandonment.

Kareem inaugurated the protest meeting, where stakeholders of the fisheries harbour voiced their demand for an immediate restart of the renovation efforts. Alleging that the Centre had overlooked the urgent need for swift refurbishment of the fishing harbour, currently under the administration of the Cochin Port Authority, Kareem also claimed that non-BJP ruled states were being treated with neglect by the central government.

Addressing the gathering, MP Hibi Eden stressed the critical importance of completing the renovation work promptly. The Cochin Fisheries Harbour, the largest in Kerala, serves as a livelihood hub for thousands of fishermen, their families, and supporting workers. The protest meeting saw the participation of senior political figures, including MLA K. J. Maxi, trade union leaders, and representatives from fishermen’s organizations.

The renovation project, with a budget of ₹169.17 crores, was initiated in June 2023 by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. The initial phase includes the construction of three air-conditioned auction halls, a non-air-conditioned hall, a fish dressing unit, and other essential units. The comprehensive project also involves the construction of internal roads, loading and unloading platforms, and a waste management area. Upon completion, the harbour is anticipated to handle a daily fish volume of 415 tonnes. The current plea for a state takeover aims to overcome delays and ensure the timely realization of this significant fisheries infrastructure development.

In a significant move towards the revitalization of the fisheries sector, the Balochistan government has announced the establishment of a Technical Working Group (TWG) tasked with formulating a new fisheries policy and revising the existing legal framework. The official notification, released on Monday, outlines the composition and objectives of this crucial initiative.

Chaired by the Secretary of the Fisheries and Coastal Development Department (F&CDD) Balochistan, the TWG comprises 26 members, including 10 full members, four observers representing diverse stakeholders, and two group secretaries dedicated to marine and inland fisheries. Notably, the Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) will assume the role of Convener for this initiative, bringing valuable international expertise to the table.

The primary goal of the TWG is to craft a comprehensive and forward-looking fisheries policy that aligns with the evolving needs of the region. By revising the legal framework, the government aims to address current challenges, promote sustainable practices, and enhance the overall efficiency of the fisheries sector in Balochistan.

This strategic step reflects the government’s commitment to fostering growth and sustainability in the fisheries industry, recognizing its vital role in both the regional economy and food security. The collaboration with international organizations, such as the FAO, signifies a concerted effort to incorporate global best practices into the local context, ensuring a well-rounded and effective policy framework.

As the TWG begins its work, stakeholders anticipate positive outcomes that will contribute to the long-term development and prosperity of Balochistan’s fisheries sector.

Scientists at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have successfully identified two additional species of seer fish, highly prized in the marine market. The research, led by Dr E M Abdussamad, Principal Scientist at ICAR-CMFRI, revealed the presence of a completely new species named Arabian sparrow seer fish (Scomberomorus avirostrus) and revived another, Russell’s spotted seer fish (Scomberomorus leopardus), previously considered a synonym of the spotted seer fish.

The team’s comprehensive taxonomic study on the spotted seer fish along the Indian coast disclosed that what was once believed to be a single species, the spotted seer fish (Scomberomorus guttatus), is, in fact, a complex of three distinct species. This breakthrough discovery elevates the total number of top-demanding seer fish species in Indian waters from four to six.

The Arabian sparrow seer fish earned its name due to its distinctive bird-beak-like snout and is predominantly found along the Arabian Sea coast, extending up to the Arabian Gulf. The other two species inhabit the Bay of Bengal coast north of Nagapattinam, including the Andaman Seas and China Sea. All three species are relatively smaller in size compared to their counterparts and are commonly found in nearshore waters, prized for their delectable flavor and high market value.

Dr Abdussamad emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that it enhances our understanding of marine biodiversity and holds the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s marine fisheries sector. This breakthrough marks a notable milestone in marine taxonomy and fisheries research, shedding light on the rich and diverse marine life along the Indian coast.

This discovery follows the team’s previous findings, which included the identification of new species of barracuda, chub mackerel, and queenfish. The ongoing efforts of the ICAR-CMFRI researchers continue to deepen our knowledge of marine life and contribute to the sustainable development of India’s marine fisheries sector.

Source: CMFRI

MUMBAI: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a relief measure for fisherfolks impacted by the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (south) by disbursing ₹15.4 crore as compensation. The beneficiaries, comprising 170 fishermen from the Worli-Koliwada and Lotus jetty area, received compensation with an 8% interest, according to Nitesh Patil, president of the Worli Koliwada Nakhava Matsya Vyavsay Sahakari Society (WKNMSS).

Expressing satisfaction with the commencement of the compensation disbursement process, Patil stated, “The BMC has finally started disbursing compensation. Fisherfolks are paid compensation with an 8% interest. We are happy that the disbursement process has begun.” The first phase of compensation disbursement began recently, and it is expected to continue until the completion of the construction work.

An official from BMC explained that the compensation strategy was devised due to the adverse impact of drilling, piling, noise, vibrations, and other construction-related activities, which led to significant losses for fisherfolks as fish breeding ceased in the affected area. The compensation, covering the period from October 2018 to October 2022, has been paid, with further compensation planned until the completion of the coastal road project.

To determine the compensation strategy, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) conducted a study on the affected fishermen in Worli and Haji Ali due to the coastal road project. In February of this year, TISS submitted its report to BMC, identifying 1,343 affected fishermen from Worli and Lotus jetty. The list was then sent to the fisheries department for verification.

The fisheries department received 521 proposals, of which 185 were shortlisted in the first phase and 336 in the second phase, according to the TISS report. Boat owners received compensation ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh per year, as outlined in the compensation plan.

MARGAO: The All Goa Small Scale Responsible Fisheries Union has voiced strong criticism against the government’s support for the proposed Nauxim AHOY Marina project in the Zuari River. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and other relevant authorities, the union has urged an immediate withdrawal of government support, citing potential harm to the river and negative impacts on fisheries activities.

Union President Shaila D’Mello and Union Secretary Laximan Mangueshkar highlighted their urgent concern regarding the draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which reportedly indicates that the Nauxim Marina could have long-term irreversible effects on Zuari River fisheries. The union leaders emphasized the need for the Chief Minister to reconsider his advocacy for the marina project to prevent irreversible harm.

Expressing worries about the significant and lasting negative impact on the Zuari River’s fisheries activities, the union leaders stated, “It is not short-term harm. The impact will be irreversible. It will never be possible to undo the harm caused. That means Zuari river fishery will be forever destroyed.” They urged the Chief Minister to retract support for the AHOY Marina project, asserting that if the project proceeds, it could lead to the “suicide” of Goa’s fishery.

The union leaders pointed out that the draft EIA by the project proponents themselves acknowledges the potential doom of Zuari River fishery. They raised concerns about the lease deeds for both the Nauxim and Sancoale marinas, alleging that these documents only prioritize the safety of barges navigating the river, neglecting the existence of fishing canoes. The union suggested that, on record, the marinas in Nauxim and Sancoale appear to be strategic moves aimed at undermining the robust Zuari river fishery.

Copies of the letter have been sent to ministers, secretaries, and senior officials of the Fisheries, Revenue, and Environment Departments, as well as local panchayats and MLAs. The union’s appeal underscores the need for careful consideration of the environmental and fisheries implications before moving forward with the Nauxim AHOY Marina project.

Udupi: In a devastating incident at Manganese Wharf in Gangolli village, approximately eight fishing boats and one boat parked along the Manganese road were engulfed in flames, leaving a trail of destruction. State Minister for Ports and Fisheries, Mankala Vaidya, visited the site on Monday afternoon to assess the damage and express condolences to the affected fishermen.

Addressing the media, Minister Vaidya shared his distress, stating, “My initial thoughts were different, but witnessing this is very disheartening. I understand the plight of fishermen and their suffering. I have already discussed the matter with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, and we will make sincere efforts to provide compensation and support to the affected fishermen. The government and the department are committed to helping and cooperating in difficult situations.”

Investigations are underway by both the police and the Fisheries Department to determine the cause of the fire. With significant assets in the port areas, plans for the construction of a pump house will be coordinated by the department or the insurance company. Minister Vaidya emphasized the need to address system issues in the port area, involving the responsibilities of the panchayat.

Officials, including MLAs Yashpal Suvarna and Kiran Kumar Kodgi, former minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary, and BJP District General Secretary Sadananda Uppinakudru, inspected the site and assessed the extent of the damage. Talks with local fishermen leaders revealed an estimated loss of around 10 crores during Diwali, prompting five district MLAs and Legislative Council members to seek special relief from the Chief Minister.

Former minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary expressed concern over the significant financial loss in the fire disaster, urging immediate action to provide compensation and grants for affected fishermen to rebuild their lives. Efforts will be made to expedite insurance compensation, with a meeting planned under the leadership of the MP.

As the fishing community grapples with the complete destruction of their boats and livelihoods, the government faces mounting pressure to intervene and assist in the recovery efforts.

On Sunday, eighty fishermen, who were released from a jail in Karachi, Pakistan, reached Vadodara in Gujarat by train. The fishermen were then transported to Veraval in Gir Somnath district by bus, where they joyously reunited with their families just in time for Diwali celebrations. The release from Pakistani authorities occurred on Thursday, and they were handed over to the Gujarat fisheries department at the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab the following day.

The fishermen, hailing from various districts in Gujarat and the Union Territory of Diu, had been detained by Pakistani maritime forces in 2020 for allegedly fishing in Pakistani waters. Of the 80 individuals released, 59 are from Gir Somnath district, 15 from Devbhoomi Dwarka, two from Jamnagar, and one from Amreli, all in Gujarat, while three are from the Union Territory of Diu.

Expressing relief, an official statement highlighted that these fishermen were part of a larger group, as approximately 200 fishermen still remain in Pakistani jails. The release allowed these individuals to celebrate Diwali with their families after being away for an extended period. It’s noteworthy that in May and June of this year, the Pakistan government had previously released nearly 400 Indian fishermen, signalling positive developments in diplomatic relations between the two nations.

New Delhi: The second edition of ‘World Food India 2023’ was ceremoniously inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam on November 3. The event witnessed the presence of Union Cabinet Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, and Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Information & Broadcasting, Dr L. Murugan, among other dignitaries.

A notable highlight of the inauguration was the unveiling of the Department of Fisheries pavilion at Pragati Maidan. Ministers Parshottam Rupala and Dr L. Murugan inaugurated the pavilion, exploring a diverse array of exhibit stalls featuring fish and fishery products in various forms, including canned, dried, and frozen items, value-added products, and millet-based fish products. The interactive showcase facilitated engagement between ministers and entrepreneurs, offering insights into the evolving fishery industry and showcasing innovations.

Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, joined the exhibition tour at the World Food Expo. His interaction with participants underscored the department’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the sector.

As a vital partner in ‘World Food India 2023,’ the Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, organized a technical seminar session on “Global Food & Nutritional Security through Fisheries and Aquaculture.” Renowned experts in the field, including Dr. Dilip Kumar, Dr. W. S. Lakra, Dr. M. Karthikeyan, Dr. V. Kripa, Jagdish V. Fofandi, and Dr. Prithvi Rani, participated in the session held at Bharat Mandapm. Their discussions focused on emerging trends, technological advancements, and sustainable practices shaping the fisheries and aquaculture industry, contributing to a deeper understanding of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.

IFFO – The Marine Ingredients Organisation is set to organize the 6th IFFO Marine Ingredients China Workshop on December 12th in Guangzhou, South China. As the capital city of Guangdong province, a key aquafeed producing region in China, the offline event is open to both IFFO members and non-members.

Commencing at 8:30 Beijing Time, the full-day workshop will feature presentations and panel discussions covering various aspects of the global marine ingredients market. The agenda includes insights into production and consumption in Vietnam, Europe, and Chile, along with discussions on regulations and standards for imported feed in China, fishmeal/fish oil applications, and China’s fishmeal demand.

Key speakers at the event will include DUAN Xiaohong from China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Association, Prof./Dr. He Gen from Ocean University of China, Prof./Dr. NIU Jin from Sun Yat-sen University, Dr. XU Houguo from the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute at the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Henry Qu (China Market Analyst) from IFFO, Ngo Nha Truc (Deputy Manager) from Kanematsu Vietnam, Anne Mette Baek from Marine Ingredients Denmark and the European Fishmeal Association, Francisco Ovalle from Orizon S.A., and HUANG Lun (Animal Protein Purchasing Director) from Tongwei Agricultural Development Co. Ltd.

The workshop will address crucial topics such as market dynamics, processing technology, value-added applications, regulations, and standards. Conducted in both Chinese and English with simultaneous interpretation, the event provides a platform for industry stakeholders to delve into the latest developments and trends in the marine ingredients sector.

Source: IFFO