News

Kendrapara, Odisha: A giant saltwater crocodile, measuring 14.2 feet and weighing around 400 kilograms, was rescued from a shrimp farm in Khunta village, Rajkanika block, following the turbulence caused by Cyclone Dana.

The reptile had wandered into the farm from the nearby Khola River on Friday. Forest officials, alerted by the locals, initiated a challenging rescue mission that lasted seven hours and involved a team of ten personnel. Using specialized nets, the team successfully captured the crocodile without harm.

“The animal was later released into the Khola River within Bhitarkanika National Park,” said a forest official. “It was unharmed and did not show any aggression toward people during the operation.”

The sudden appearance of the massive reptile caused panic among villagers, though many couldn’t resist capturing photographs with it before the forest team removed it.

The region frequently experiences similar incidents, with crocodiles straying into village ponds and farms from nearby rivers. To mitigate risks, officials have installed barricades around water bodies to protect residents.

“We encourage villagers to use only the sections within the barricaded areas to avoid conflicts with wildlife,” added the official.

Thanks to the quick intervention of the forest department, the crocodile was returned to its habitat, providing a sense of relief to the community.

New Delhi: The Department of Fisheries has underlined the critical role played by the ICAR Fisheries Extension Network in advancing technology transfer and promoting outreach initiatives in the fisheries sector. The focus of a key meeting held on October 25, 2024, was to discuss ways to enhance support for fish farmers and ensure the effective implementation of the newly launched Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY).

The meeting, chaired by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary (Fisheries), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D), brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including officials from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DoA&FW), ICAR, Agricultural Technology Application Research Institutes (ATARI), Matsya Seva Kendras, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, fisheries officers from states and union territories, as well as experts from research and training institutions.

In his keynote address, Dr. Likhi emphasized the importance of fisheries extension services in bridging the gap between fish farmers and critical resources, technology, and government support. He noted the establishment of both a High-Level Ministerial Committee and a Secretaries Committee to explore strategies for improving technology dissemination and outreach across fisheries, animal husbandry, and dairying sectors.

Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, presented an overview of the PM-MKSSY scheme, outlining its key components and the benefits it promises to deliver to fish farmers. He highlighted the significance of the ICAR extension network in ensuring that government initiatives reach farmers effectively and foster sectoral growth.

Meanwhile, Samuel Praveen Kumar, Joint Secretary from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, provided a detailed presentation on the Post Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources (VISTAAR). The VISTAAR framework is designed to improve access to agricultural resources and streamline communication between farmers and government services.

The meeting emphasized the importance of collaboration among various institutions to ensure the smooth implementation of PM-MKSSY. Participants stressed the need to strengthen capacity-building programs, promote technical innovation, and enhance connectivity between fish farmers, state fisheries departments, and research organizations.

A key takeaway from the discussions was the need to integrate traceability modules to support sustainable growth in the sector. The meeting called for greater coordination across ICAR institutes, state agencies, and training bodies to boost networking efforts, encourage innovative technology adoption, and provide fish farmers with timely technical guidance.

This collaborative initiative reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries development and aims to enhance both the productivity and livelihoods of fish farmers nationwide.

Thiruvananthapuram: The Union Minister of State for Fisheries, George Kurian, announced today that the Central Government has sanctioned the development of the Muthalapozhi Fishing Port near Thiruvananthapuram. Addressing a press conference in the city, Kurian confirmed that the project would be executed based on a new Detailed Project Report (DPR) submitted by the Kerala State Government.

The total project cost of ₹177 crore will be shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio. Of this, the Union Government will contribute ₹106.2 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), while the Kerala Government will provide the remaining ₹70.8 crore.

Muthalapozhi has gained notoriety in recent years as a perilous area for fishermen, with several fatalities resulting from frequent accidents in the region. Fishermen and local communities have long demanded better infrastructure at the harbor to address these safety concerns. The newly announced development project aims to improve safety, modernize facilities, and boost economic activities in the area.

The port expansion is based on scientific research conducted by institutions like the Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune, and the Environmental Impact Assessment led by the Kerala Government.

The upgraded harbor will accommodate 415 mechanized fishing boats and is expected to handle an annual fish landing of 38,142 metric tonnes. Direct benefits from the project will impact about 10,000 people, with an equal number gaining indirect advantages. In addition to supporting local fishing vessels, the improved port will stimulate the growth of fisheries-based industries, enhance trade activities, and generate substantial employment opportunities.

Minister Kurian highlighted the significant progress achieved in India’s fisheries sector since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office in 2014. “Over the past decade, ₹38,572 crore has been allocated to various fisheries-related projects, boosting employment and development opportunities across the country,” he noted.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has issued a contempt notice to Neerabh Kumar Prasad, Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh, over allegations of non-compliance with earlier directives aimed at dismantling illegal fish tanks in the Kolleru Lake wetlands and bird sanctuary.

A three-judge bench, consisting of Justices B.R. Gavai, Prashant Kumar Mishra, and K.V. Viswanathan, initiated the contempt proceedings, asserting that the state had failed to adhere to a 2006 Supreme Court order calling for the restoration of the Kolleru sanctuary.

In its April 10, 2006 verdict in TN Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India, the apex court mandated the implementation of the Central Empowered Committee’s (CEC) recommendations, which required the removal of all aquaculture tanks within the sanctuary, along with any tanks exceeding 100 acres, by May 31, 2006, to rehabilitate the ecosystem.

The Court has now directed the Chief Secretary to provide an explanation as to why contempt proceedings should not be initiated for disregarding these orders.

The petitioner, represented by Advocate Akshay Mann, contended that the illegal fish tanks have persisted unabated, with aquaculture inputs and operations continuing unchecked within the Kolleru region. The plea cites data obtained under the Right to Information Act, 2005 (RTI), from the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department’s Wildlife Management Division, revealing that 6,908.48 hectares of the sanctuary remain occupied by unauthorized aquaculture activities.

The petitioner urged the Court to direct the Chief Secretary to strictly enforce the 2006 directives and facilitate the removal of all illegal fish tanks and encroachments from the sanctuary, ensuring compliance with environmental restoration efforts.

KAKINADA: Tripura Governor N. Indrasena Reddy lauded Andhra Pradesh’s aqua farmers on Saturday, recognizing their efforts in establishing the state as the nation’s top producer and exporter of fish. Speaking at an aquaculture expo in Unguturu, Eluru district, Reddy emphasized the importance of sharing best practices across regions to enhance fish farming across India.

“Though Tripura is a small, hilly state, we are actively promoting aquaculture. Our government has even implemented dedicated laws to foster growth in this sector and support the wellbeing of aquaculturists,” the Governor remarked.

Reddy revealed that Tripura intends to study Andhra Pradesh’s aquaculture strategies and incorporate them, noting that the coastal state’s climate and natural resources are highly conducive to aquaculture. “Tripura, apart from being a tourism destination, is also advancing in education, healthcare, and boasts a literacy rate of 97%,” he added.

Unguturu MLA Patsamatla Dharma Raju also addressed the gathering, highlighting Eluru’s leadership in aquaculture, with the district producing a remarkable 11.93 lakh tonnes of fish over the past year. He underscored the government’s focus on sustainable practices, citing the cultivation of broodstock without antibiotics as an example of eco-conscious farming.

Kochi: To push aquaculture toward more sustainable practices, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has developed a fish feed derived from black soldier fly (BSF) larvae meal. This insect-based feed aims to reduce the reliance on traditional fishmeal, which has long been associated with overfishing and unstable market prices.

The innovative feed technology was officially handed over to Amala Ecoclean, a start-up focusing on eco-friendly waste management solutions. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between CMFRI Director Grinson George and Amala Ecoclean Director Joseph Niclavose, setting the stage for the commercial rollout of the product to fish farmers across India.

Grinson George explained that insect-protein feed offers a sustainable and economically viable alternative to conventional feed ingredients like fishmeal and soybean. “This development will not only benefit farmers through cost savings but also reduce the environmental burden associated with aquaculture,” he said.

Research by the Marine Biotechnology, Fish Nutrition, and Health Division at CMFRI shows that the larvae-based feed supports robust growth in farmed fish without sacrificing performance. The BSF larvae, known for their nutrient-rich composition, contain 40-45% protein along with essential fats, amino acids, and other nutrients. The larvae feed on organic waste, making them an efficient and eco-friendly source of protein.

Once processed, the larvae are converted into a defatted meal suitable for fish feed formulations. The product also enhances feed conversion efficiency, potentially lowering production costs for fish farmers.

“This initiative addresses two key issues—reducing organic waste and ensuring sustainable protein sources for aquaculture,” George added. “It aligns with the global shift toward environmentally responsible fish farming.”

Field trials have confirmed that fish fed with the insect-protein diet showed growth and health outcomes comparable to those fed conventional feeds.

The partnership between CMFRI and Amala Ecoclean is expected to accelerate the adoption of sustainable feed practices across the aquaculture sector, marking a step forward in the effort to reduce the industry’s environmental impact.

Kolkata: Cyclone Dana, accompanied by heavy rain, sea surges, and strong winds, has caused widespread damage to fish farms across several coastal districts of West Bengal. Fisheries in East Midnapore and South 24 Parganas were particularly affected, with reports indicating extensive flooding and destruction of infrastructure.

The storm surge, intensified by a high tide, inundated large aquaculture zones, washing away fish stock and damaging equipment. Early estimates suggest that the financial losses in these regions may run into several crores. Experts warn that the complete assessment could reveal even greater devastation.

“We have lost substantial stock, especially mature fish ready for harvest,” said a fishery operator from East Midnapore. “This is a setback not just for us but also for the market supply chain, which will now take time to stabilize.”

Apart from fish stock losses, stagnant water due to flooding poses a long-term risk, potentially leading to disease outbreaks and water quality degradation. Fish farms dependent on freshwater species like rohu, catla, and tilapia are particularly vulnerable to such conditions. “If the water doesn’t recede soon, it will compromise the entire breeding cycle,” cautioned an aquaculture expert.

Pradip Mazumdar, the state’s agriculture advisor and panchayat minister, acknowledged the heavy toll on fisheries. “It is a significant loss for the sector, and we will be reviewing the situation closely over the next few days to decide on appropriate relief measures,” he said.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed concern for the affected farmers and announced immediate steps to mitigate the losses. “We are extending the crop compensation claim deadline from October 31 to November 30 to ensure no farmer or fish farm owner is left behind. Surveys will begin this Saturday, and relief, if required, will be provided through the Karmashree project,” she assured.

The storm’s impact on aquaculture is expected to ripple through the fish markets, leading to a potential surge in prices. As many fish farms have reported total stock loss, the supply gap could extend for months.

Cyclone Dana has not only threatened livelihoods but has also disrupted the delicate balance in a region heavily dependent on fisheries. Stakeholders now look to the government for swift relief and long-term solutions to rebuild the sector.

Rameswaram: Fishermen from Rameswaram staged a protest near the local bus stand on Friday, urging the Union government to organize a high-level dialogue between Indian and Sri Lankan fishing communities. The demonstration followed the recent detention of 16 Indian fishermen and the confiscation of two mechanized boats by Sri Lankan authorities on October 23.

Expressing growing frustration over repeated arrests, fishermen’s associations voiced concern about their safety, accusing Sri Lankan officials of heavy-handed treatment. “The Indian government must act swiftly and decisively. Staying silent makes us feel abandoned as citizens,” said Sesu Raja, a fishermen leader, reflecting the community’s mounting anger.

He further criticized the pattern of frequent arrests, hefty fines, and harsh penalties imposed by Sri Lanka. “Punishments like six-month or two-year jail terms for repeat offenders have become commonplace. These actions severely disrupt the livelihood of fishermen who are just trying to earn daily wages. Many have fallen into deep depression after being imprisoned, leaving their families in dire straits.”

In the past, diplomatic efforts by the Indian government had secured the release of detained fishermen, but the situation has worsened since June, when Sri Lanka intensified arrests following the annual fishing ban. Confiscated boats are now being auctioned off, adding to the financial strain on Indian fishermen.

With fishing in the Palk Bay becoming increasingly perilous, fishermen leaders have called for urgent intervention. “We have fished in these waters for generations, and our right to fish near Katchatheevu cannot be taken away,” Raja asserted.

Adding to their woes is the growing use of high-powered Chinese engines on some mechanized boats, which has escalated tensions. “These engines have only complicated matters, making the situation even more challenging for us,” explained Emerit, another fishermen representative.

The community has urged the Tamil Nadu government to push the Union government for a diplomatic solution. They insist that direct dialogue between fishermen from both countries is essential to reaching a sustainable resolution. “If governments allow fishermen to negotiate directly, we can find common ground and end these disputes,” Raja said.

The protesting fishermen warned that if the government fails to respond meaningfully, they would be compelled to escalate their agitation. “We need action, not promises. Without a resolution, our livelihoods and future remain at risk,” they cautioned.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee dismissed rumours circulating about Tilapia fish being linked to cancer, urging citizens to consume the fish without concern.

During a meeting with senior officials at the state secretariat, Banerjee raised the issue, asking, “Is there any scientific basis to the claim that eating Tilapia harms the body?” After officials confirmed that no evidence supports the rumour, the chief minister expressed her frustration.

“Who spread this misinformation? Why hasn’t any action been taken against them?” she questioned, emphasizing the importance of curbing such falsehoods. “There is no need to fear. Tilapia does not cause cancer—people can enjoy it without hesitation,” she reassured.

Banerjee further instructed officials to take proactive steps, directing them to release Tilapia fish into ponds as part of the ‘Jal Dharo, Jal Bharo’ initiative, which aims to promote sustainable water management and fish farming.

This statement comes amid efforts to combat misinformation and promote healthy dietary practices in the state.