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New Delhi: As a symbolic tribute to the visionary leader Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 148th birth anniversary, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, took the lead in the ‘Run for Unity’ event today. The run, which commenced from the premises of Krishi Bhawan, saw the enthusiastic participation of over 150 officials from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

Joined by Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan, and Dr. L. Murugan, Shri Rupala emphasized the indelible contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to the nation’s integrity and the dairy cooperative sector. He stated, “Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy will be remembered always and will continue to inspire us.”

The ‘Run for Unity’ was organized on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to honour Sardar Patel’s belief in national integration. The route took participants from Krishi Bhawan to Hyderabad House via Rajendra Prasad Road and Asoka Road. The event commenced with all participants taking the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge, affirming their commitment to preserve the unity, integrity, and internal security of the nation.

Among the dignitaries present were Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, and Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi. The ‘Run for Unity’ served as a collective expression of respect and homage to one of India’s key architects of unity and integration, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

In a strategic move mirroring neighbouring Andhra Pradesh’s success, the Telangana government has launched a visionary initiative – the establishment of ‘Aqua Hubs.’ Aimed at meeting the escalating demand for seafood, including fish, shrimps, lobsters, and prawns, the state is actively scouting suitable locations along the banks of the Krishna and Godavari rivers for aquaculture promotion.

Identifying the Mid Manair reservoir as a potential site for the inaugural Aqua Hub, officials from the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries department highlighted the positive outcomes of the state’s ‘Aqua Policy.’ The government’s efforts to boost aquaculture, particularly in shrimp and fish production, have yielded significant results in recent years.

Official data underscores this success, revealing a twofold increase in prawn production within eight years. From 6,500 tonnes in 2014-15, prawn production surged to an impressive 13,800 tonnes in 2021-2022. Innovative natural techniques, coupled with water resources from canals and reservoirs linked to projects like the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project, have transformed local reservoirs into thriving centres for aqua production.

Furthermore, fish production in Telangana has risen substantially, reaching 3.76 lakh tonnes in 2022 compared to 2.6 lakh tonnes in 2015. The state’s water bodies now effectively meet domestic demand for fish.

Government-conducted studies indicate a significant opportunity to position Telangana as an ‘Aqua Hub,’ drawing inspiration from the success of Andhra Pradesh. The state possesses the necessary resources, including the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project and expansive reservoirs like Mallanna Sagar, Kondapochamma Sagar, as well as existing dams such as Mid Manair, Nizam Sagar, and Sriram Sagar.

Abundant land banks along the water bodies provide an ideal setting for the establishment of Aqua Hubs, with the government encouraging local entrepreneurs to participate in food processing centres within these hubs. A major announcement about the formal establishment of Aqua Hubs in the state is expected from the government soon.

Source: Hans India

Kolkata: The northern sector of West Bengal, particularly Jalpaiguri district, is grappling with a massive death toll of fish in the River Teesta. The district administration and the state fisheries department are on high alert as hundreds of lifeless fish line the riverbanks, prompting fears of an environmental crisis.

Experts speculate that the fish deaths may be a result of serious water pollution triggered by explosive materials carried by floodwaters following a recent flash flood in Sikkim. The state fisheries department is mobilizing a team of experts to Jalpaiguri to assess the situation, determine the exact reasons behind the fish deaths, and propose necessary remedial measures.

The aftermath of the Sikkim floods has introduced a new challenge for Jalpaiguri, with explosive materials, including mortar from various army bases in Sikkim, being transported downstream by the floodwaters. The sudden detonation of these explosive items on the banks of the Teesta River has resulted in severe injuries and fatalities among the local population.

In response to the crisis, the district administration has issued a public advisory urging locals to refrain from consuming dead fish due to potential health hazards, including the risk of food poisoning. The situation remains critical as authorities work to address the environmental and public health implications of this alarming event.

Thirty seven fishermen from Tamil Nadu found themselves in the custody of the Sri Lankan navy, along with the confiscation of five of their fishing trawlers, following an alleged incursion into Sri Lankan territorial waters, as reported by a fisheries official in Chennai on Sunday.

The apprehension took place during a Saturday night operation by the Sri Lankan navy, marking the tenth instance this month alone where 64 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and their 10 fishing boats have been detained by the neighbouring country. Responding to the escalating situation, Chief Minister M K Stalin has called upon Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take immediate measures for the release of the detained fishermen and the retrieval of their impounded vessels.

Expressing concern over the plight of the fishermen, Chief Minister Stalin emphasized the heavy reliance of these communities on fishing for their livelihood. In a letter addressed to Minister Jaishankar, Stalin urged the Indian government to assertively advocate for the rights and safety of Tamil Nadu fishermen, who are facing increasing distress due to recurrent arrests by the Sri Lankan navy.

Stalin highlighted the adverse impact of such incidents on the fishing communities in Tamil Nadu, asserting that the fishermen perceive a diminishing influence of their voices. He called for a more robust stance from the Government of India in safeguarding the traditional fishing rights of Indian fishermen in the Palk Bay region.

Despite previous calls to halt arrests and boat seizures, the Sri Lankan navy continues to apprehend Indian fishermen, prompting Chief Minister Stalin to demand immediate and effective diplomatic interventions to bring an end to these recurring detentions.

Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) and its subsidiaries concluded a triumphant exhibition at the esteemed 26th China Fisheries & Seafood Expo held in Qingdao from October 25th to 27th, 2023. The event showcased Oman’s thriving fisheries sector, attracting over 40,000 visitors and participation from more than 1600 companies.

FDO’s presentation, aligning with international standards, solidified its pivotal role in the global fisheries industry. The expo, recognized as a premier seafood exhibition globally, not only served as a platform for product display but also became a focal point for potential investment opportunities.

This year’s Expo proved particularly advantageous for FDO and its subsidiaries, capitalizing on the recently established cooperation protocol between Oman and China. Attendees gained insights into the rigorous food safety standards governing Omani fish products, a crucial aspect in alignment with China’s health regulations.

FDO’s exhibition stand not only showcased products but became a hub for investment discussions. The company’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices stood out, emphasizing its dedication to the long-term preservation of Oman’s marine resources.

Mr. Hilal Al Riyami, Group Manager Supply Chain, expressed satisfaction with FDO’s participation, stating, “Our presence at this event was nothing short of a remarkable success. It afforded us the opportunity to cast a spotlight on Oman’s fisheries sector, with a particular emphasis on the Chinese market.”

The comprehensive portfolio presented by FDO included fresh and frozen fish, value-added seafood products, state-of-the-art fish processing facilities, aquaculture technologies, and sustainable fishing practices. This showcase reinforced FDO’s standing as a significant player in the global fisheries arena.

FDO’s active participation mirrors Oman’s commitment to diversifying its economy, leveraging its strategic location, favourable business environment, and abundant natural resources. The successful interactions at the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo 2023 are expected to pave the way for significant partnerships and collaborations, further propelling the sustainable growth of Oman’s fisheries industry in the Chinese market.

Source: Robotics and Automation News

The ICAR Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (DCFR), in collaboration with the ICAR Research Complex for North East Hill Region and Meghalaya’s Department of Fisheries, organized a one-day workshop titled ‘Boosting Coldwater Aquaculture and Fisheries in Meghalaya’ at Umiam. The event, held on Friday, saw the participation of Fisheries Minister Alexander L Hek as the chief guest, along with officials from ICAR and the state government.

Nearly 100 farmers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from various parts of Meghalaya attended the workshop, where ICAR’s PK Pandey set the stage by outlining the potential of coldwater aquaculture and fisheries to create new livelihood opportunities and ensure nutritional security in Meghalaya. Pandey also highlighted the innovative coldwater aquaculture technologies developed by ICAR-DCFR that could be applied in the region.

Minister Hek stressed the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in fish production in Meghalaya through the promotion of coldwater aquaculture and the adoption of new technologies in suitable regions. He emphasized the need for strong collaboration between research institutes and implementing agencies to unlock the full potential of aquaculture and fisheries development. Hek encouraged workshop participants to capitalize on coldwater fish farming opportunities and leverage the state’s existing coldwater aquatic resources.

During the workshop sessions, various experts discussed topics such as the conservation of endemic fish biodiversity, initiatives under the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission, ornamental fish-based livelihoods, best practices in rainbow trout farming, resource-efficient intensive trout production systems, and sustainable integrated fish farming opportunities in mid-hill regions. Challenges facing the expansion of coldwater fish production in the state were also addressed.

In tandem with the workshop, scientists from ICAR-DCFR explored potential rainbow trout farming sites in Mawphlang, surveyed a newly operational private trout farm, and inspected the government’s rainbow trout farm in Shillong. As the next step, ICAR-DCFR plans to establish rainbow trout raceways in East Khasi Hills, aiming to generate employment and empower local communities under the tribal sub-plan. This initiative marks a significant stride towards the development of coldwater aquaculture in Meghalaya, aligning with the broader goals of economic growth and community empowerment.

During a recent meeting at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Kausalyaganga, Union Fisheries Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi advised the NFDB-National Freshwater Fish Brood Bank (NFFBB) to focus on developing commercially important fish varieties with demand in Biofloc and RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems) systems.

The review meeting also encompassed a discussion on the progress of the Prime Minister Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) projects in the state of Odisha. Dr. Likhi emphasized the need for CIFA to conduct need-based research, particularly addressing diseases that cause significant losses in the aquaculture industry annually.

Officials from NFDB-NFFBB presented their activities, highlighting the objectives of the brood bank, achievements to date, and ongoing initiatives. The brood bank operates a multiplication center for breeding and producing breeder seed of GI fish strains (Carps) and has cemented nursery facilities for GI Scampi.

Dr. Likhi also visited Penthakata, a coastal village in Puri District of Odisha, to understand the challenges faced by fishermen and formulate long-term plans for them. During his interaction with fishermen, he acknowledged demands for the construction of a fish landing center or jetty, a hygienic dry fish market, and activities related to the welfare of fishermen.

Addressing these demands, Dr. Likhi advised the Director of Fisheries, Odisha, to explore government assistance under Central and State Schemes. He further interacted with fish farmers benefiting from the PMMSY in Puri District.

Reviewing the activities of CIFA and NFFBB, Dr. Likhi engaged with exporters, progressive farmers, women self-help group (WSHG) members, and fish farmer producer organization (FFPO) members to understand sector priorities and aspirations. He urged both institutions to conduct mass awareness campaigns, ensuring that developed technology and best management practices reach farmers promptly, allowing them to leverage schemes and adopt new technologies.

Twelve fishermen from Tharuvaikulam have been apprehended by the Maldives navy after their mechanized boat accidentally entered the territorial waters of the island nation during a multi-day deep-sea fishing expedition. The fishermen, who set out on October 1 for deep-sea stay fishing, found themselves in distress when their boat, owned by Michael Packiyaraj of Tharuvaikulam, inadvertently drifted into Maldivian territorial waters on October 23.

Upon entering Maldivian waters, the navy detained both the mechanized boat and its crew of twelve along with their catch. The detained fishermen were subsequently taken to Male, the capital of the Maldives, where officials notified the boat owner about the situation.

In response to the distressing development, Member of Parliament Kanimozhi has taken swift action by sending a letter to the Minister for External Affairs, S. Jaishankar. The letter appeals for immediate intervention to ensure the safe release of the fishermen, their boats, and the confiscated catch.

This incident underscores the challenges faced by fishermen engaged in deep-sea fishing activities, where unforeseen circumstances, such as unintentional territorial boundary crossings, can lead to diplomatic and legal complications. The appeal to the Minister for External Affairs reflects the urgency to resolve the matter and secure the release of the detained fishermen, allowing them to return home safely with their vessels and catch.

Despite its expansive 1,000 km coastline and the allowance of fishing up to 200 nautical miles within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), Andhra Pradesh faces a challenge with the absence of a robust domestic market for fish, shrimp, and aquaculture products. In response, the state government has introduced a multifaceted marketing strategy, encompassing periodic seafood festivals and the establishment of branded retail outlets.

V.V Rao, Joint Director of the Fisheries Department, highlighted the current dynamics of a “Buyer’s Market” where entrepreneurs investing substantially in aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, face challenges due to the lack of a reliable domestic market. The food festivals, conducted in collaboration with Bhoomi Organics, aim to stimulate demand, popularize seafood, and establish connections between entrepreneurs and consumers.

The state boasts significant marine resources, with 5.75 lakh tonnes of marine fish, 10 lakh tonnes of fish available in natural water bodies, and up to 20 lakh tonnes of cultured shrimp, resulting in a total annual production of 52 lakh tonnes of fish, shrimp, and aquaculture products. However, a substantial portion, approximately 15 lakh tonnes of shrimp, is exported, while only three to four lakh tonnes are consumed locally.

To address this, the government is encouraging increased internal consumption, emphasizing the nutritional benefits of seafood as a natural and affordable alternative. The state’s ambitious plan includes seafood festivals in various locations, the establishment of ‘Fish Andhra’ retail outlets, and an online ordering option. A subsidy of up to 75 percent, along with training and support, is provided to entrepreneurs opening outlets.

Despite these initiatives, K Kanna Babu, Fisheries Commissioner, acknowledges that more efforts are needed. While non-vegetarian food is popular in Andhra Pradesh, the average seafood consumption per person per annum remains below 8 kg, indicating an untapped domestic market. Babu stresses the importance of reducing dependency on international markets, citing the example of Brazil, which has successfully developed its domestic seafood market.

The commissioner reveals plans for increasing the number of retail outlets to 4,000 by March, from the existing 2,000, and urges a shift toward a Brazil-like model where a significant portion of the cultured shrimp is utilized domestically. Despite current challenges in international markets, the state is determined to bolster its domestic seafood consumption and support local entrepreneurs.

Source: PTI