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The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), in collaboration with IIT Madras, is now offering a range of online courses through the SWAYAM-NPTEL platform, according to a release from KUFOS. These courses, aimed at enhancing knowledge in food processing and seafood industries, include Food Packaging Technology, Canning Technology, and Value Addition in Seafood.

The Food Packaging Technology course covers crucial topics such as the functions and applications of food packaging, selection of appropriate packaging materials, and adherence to regulatory standards for food safety. The course also offers practical insights into packaging evaluation techniques used in laboratories.

The Canning Technology and Value Addition of Seafood courses provide comprehensive knowledge on canning processes, types of cans, canning machinery, and associated quality control measures. These courses are particularly beneficial for professionals in the food and seafood industries.

The course layout includes modules on:

1. Introduction to Food Packaging: Overview of packaging materials such as paper, glass, metals, and plastics.
2. Food Packaging Systems: Rigid, semi-rigid, and flexible forms of packaging tailored for various food products.
3. Design and Testing of Packaging Materials: Focus on packaging performance and safety standards.
4. Advances in Packaging Technology: Active and modified atmosphere packaging, biodegradable plastics, and aseptic packaging.
5. Packaging Equipment and Machinery: Overview of vacuum packaging machines, bottling systems, and other advanced packaging tools.

The courses are free to enroll, and learners have the option to receive certification by registering for a proctored exam, which will be held on November 3, 2024, for a fee of ₹1000. The exam will be conducted at designated centers across various cities, with registration details to be announced on the SWAYAM-NPTEL website.

To qualify for a certificate, participants must complete assignments and pass the exam, with the final score comprising 25% assignment marks and 75% exam marks. More details, including exam schedules and cities, will be available once registration opens.

For further information, visit the SWAYAM-NPTEL website.

To address illegal and unsustainable fishing practices, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) has revoked the registration of a fishmeal processor in Karnataka. The action, taken under Section 36 of the MPEDA Rules 1972, is part of a broader effort to promote responsible practices in the fishmeal industry.

The Indian Marine Ingredients Association has welcomed MPEDA’s enforcement action, praising the authority for targeting non-compliant processors. On September 16, Association president Mohamed Dawood Sait emphasized the importance of rooting out such units to ensure the industry’s move toward full sustainability. “This is crucial for the fishmeal industry’s progress,” Sait noted, adding that responsible practices were a priority for all processors.

India is the third-largest producer of fishmeal globally, and the sector has also entered the Chinese market. Sait pointed out that by 2025, international conventions will require all fishmeal producers to obtain certification verifying the source of their raw materials. In line with this, Association members predominantly use low-value and discarded fish caught accidentally by trawlers, which helps support fishermen by providing a market for fish without commercial value.

However, the issue of unsustainable fishing practices remains contentious in coastal areas. In August, tensions flared along Kerala’s coast as conflicts erupted between traditional fishermen and those involved in juvenile fishing and pelagic trawling. Traditional fishermen, angered by the unsustainable methods, seized boats and gear allegedly used in these operations. Authorities have since intervened, and their involvement is expected to create a more peaceful platform for addressing these concerns.

A group of traditional fishermen has also petitioned the Chief Minister, urging him to take direct action against juvenile fishing and other environmentally harmful practices.

With the MPEDA’s recent enforcement, there is hope that stricter adherence to sustainable methods will help mitigate such conflicts while fostering the long-term growth of India’s fishmeal industry.

Himachal Pradesh’s Technical Education Minister, Rajesh Dharmani, has urged the Fisheries Department to prioritize fish processing to address the surplus in the market by focusing on value-added products. During a meeting on Tuesday evening, Dharmani stressed the importance of aligning fisheries initiatives with tourism, according to an official release issued on Wednesday.

The Minister highlighted the need for schemes that engage young people, encouraging their participation in fish farming. He pointed out that the state government is offering subsidies of up to 80% for fish pond construction, making it a lucrative opportunity for local communities.

Dharmani suggested linking these schemes with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) to provide additional benefits for those involved in fish production. He also proposed establishing fish vendor zones along key tourist routes, including the Mandi Bharari-Aauhar-Manali corridor, given Bilaspur’s proximity to popular destinations like Chandigarh, Manali, Dharamshala, and Shimla.

“These initiatives could attract tourists to experience local fish dishes, creating new employment opportunities for youth and fishermen,” Dharmani said. He further directed the department to host fish food fairs to boost the visibility of local products.

The meeting also addressed the low fish production in Chamera and Ranjit Sagar Dams, as well as the limited local interest in fish farming in Kol Dam. Dharmani called for intensified efforts to increase fish production in these areas to generate more employment for local communities.

To modernize the fisheries sector, the Minister directed officials to integrate the state’s fish farm directory and vendor locations with online platforms, including Google Maps, to enhance accessibility for tourists and consumers alike.

According to the official report, Himachal Pradesh produced 17,721.64 metric tonnes of fish during 2023-24, generating revenue of Rs 273.49 crore, marking an increase of Rs 12 crore from the previous year.

Source: The Week Magazine

The fisheries sector is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing the nation’s food security and nutritional needs, according to C.N. Ravishankar, Director and Vice-Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai. Speaking at the convocation of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University (TNJFU) on Wednesday, Ravishankar underscored the sector’s significance in national food security, highlighting that global fish production has surged to 223.2 million tonnes. As the world’s second-largest fish producer, India plays a crucial role but faces challenges, including reducing post-harvest losses, which currently stand at 15-20% in the country.

Ravishankar commended TNJFU for its impressive growth, noting that it has expanded to 40 constituent colleges within a decade and climbed from 40th to 32nd in the national rankings among agricultural universities. He also praised the university’s collaboration with CIFE, with 50% of TNJFU students annually pursuing M.F.Sc. degrees through this partnership.

Governor and Chancellor R.N. Ravi awarded 58 medals for academic excellence during the ceremony. M. Ramya Veena stood out, securing 13 medals, including the Usha Thandav Rajagopalsamy gold medal and the Dr. J. Jayalalithaa endowment award. Other notable achievers included S. Kaviya and H. Lisha, who won three and five medals, respectively.

Vice-Chancellor N. Felix highlighted the university’s accomplishments, including the recruitment of 92 fisheries graduates into the fisheries department and the launch of several initiatives such as the technology innovation fellowship scheme and a dedicated patent facilitation cell.

A total of 332 graduates received their degrees during the convocation, with 151 earning B.F.Sc., 23 B.Tech. (Fisheries Engineering), 9 B.Tech. (Energy and Environmental Engineering), and 19 M.F.Sc. degrees. An additional 59 candidates were conferred degrees in absentia.

Source: The Hindu

The Fisheries Department in Annamayya district is intensifying its efforts to assist local fish farmers and workers through a range of government-supported schemes. District Fisheries Officer, S. Sushmita, emphasized the department’s commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods and improving income opportunities for fishing communities across the district.

During a recent press briefing, Ms. Sushmita explained the department’s structure, which includes fisheries offices in Bahuda and Pileru, an Assistant Fisheries Office in Rajampet, and the Fisheries Development Office located in Madanapalle. Key locations like Madanapalle, Sambepally, Chitvel, Nandalur, Obulavaripalle, Pullampet, Penagalur, Railway Kodur, Rajampet, and Veeraballi have sub-divisional offices to oversee regional operations.

Key responsibilities of the department include managing the leasing of ponds, fish farming activities, and issuing fishing licenses for boats in authorized reservoirs. Ms. Sushmita highlighted the importance of proper licensing, mentioning that Annamayya district oversees two licensed reservoirs and 149 ponds, all requiring permits for fishing operations.

A central focus of the department’s strategy is the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which promotes income-generating activities like fish breeding and seeding in identified ponds and reservoirs. Along with encouraging fish cultivation, the department is actively educating workers about new government schemes and best practices in fisheries management.

To support the local fish trade, the district operates 31 fish shops, and the department has deployed a fleet of 15 two-wheelers, one three-wheeler, and two four-wheelers for efficient fish transport. This initiative has also created additional employment opportunities for drivers and labourers involved in fish farming and distribution.

Ms. Sushmita reiterated the department’s dedication to ensuring that fishing boat owners can easily access government schemes and urged Managing Committee members to regularly attend association meetings for the smooth execution of these programs.

The department’s focus on infrastructure and worker education reflects its commitment to enhancing the fishing community’s well-being in Annamayya district.

In a significant move to bolster fish production in the region, the Fisheries Department has embarked on a major initiative to release over 50 lakh fish seeds into the vast expanse of Gobind Sagar Lake. This ambitious project, aimed at enhancing fish stocks and supporting the local fishing economy, commenced on Friday, with around 8 lakh fish seeds already released in the waters near Luhanu Ground.

Strategic Fish Seed Distribution

Vivek Chandel, Director of the Fisheries Department, shared that the fish seeds will be released in phases over the next month at various locations across the lake. The lake, which stretches from Bhakhra to Kandror in the Bilaspur district and extends into the Raipur Maidan and Lathiyani areas of Una district, is one of the largest reservoirs in the region. The department has carefully planned the distribution of fish seeds to ensure that different sections of the lake receive adequate stocks, thereby maintaining a balanced and sustainable fish production rate throughout the lake’s extensive area.

Focus on High-Demand Species

Chandel further revealed that 50% of the fish seeds being released consist of Silver Carp, a species that has shown rapid growth and increasing market demand in recent years. The introduction of Silver Carp is expected to significantly contribute to both the volume of fish production and the economic value of the catch. Along with Silver Carp, other species being introduced include Rohu, Katla, Mrigal, and Grass Carp. These species are highly valued by local fishers and consumers alike, ensuring that the fishery will continue to supply a diverse range of fish to meet market needs.

Encouraging Results and Future Prospects

Last year, Gobind Sagar Lake saw a notable increase in fish production, with the total yield rising by 8 metric tonnes compared to previous years. This increase is attributed to similar efforts by the Fisheries Department, and officials are hopeful that this year’s larger-scale release will lead to even more substantial gains in production. The department is closely monitoring the growth of the fish population and is optimistic that the lake’s natural ecosystem will support the thriving of these introduced species.

The entire process of releasing 50 lakh fish seeds is expected to be completed within a month. Fisheries experts are also employing advanced monitoring techniques to ensure that the fish population disperses evenly and thrives across the different parts of the lake. Continuous evaluation will help in fine-tuning future release strategies and addressing any challenges that may arise.

Sustainable Fish Farming and Economic Benefits

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the government to promote sustainable fish farming practices in the region. Gobind Sagar Lake has long been a key resource for local fishing communities, providing both sustenance and livelihood to a large number of families. By boosting fish production in the lake, the Fisheries Department aims to improve the incomes of local fisherfolk, many of whom rely on the lake’s resources for their daily needs.

The government’s commitment to enhancing aquaculture is also expected to have a ripple effect on the regional economy, with increased fish production leading to higher sales, improved market access, and potential opportunities for export. Additionally, efforts to maintain the ecological balance of the lake ensure that these developments are sustainable in the long term, with minimal environmental impact.

Community Engagement and Support

The Fisheries Department has also engaged with local fishing communities to ensure their involvement and support for the project. Regular consultations have been held to inform fisherfolk about the project’s goals and to provide training on sustainable fishing techniques. By fostering a collaborative approach, the department aims to ensure the long-term success of the fish stocking program and to build strong partnerships with those who depend on the lake for their livelihoods.

Looking Ahead

As the month-long release of fish seeds progresses, the Fisheries Department remains committed to monitoring the outcomes and making adjustments as necessary to maximize the benefits of this initiative. With a focus on both ecological sustainability and economic growth, the project is expected to play a key role in boosting fish production in Gobind Sagar Lake and strengthening the local fishing economy for years to come.

This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to the development of the fisheries sector and its efforts to improve the livelihoods of rural communities through enhanced aquaculture practices. With promising results already seen in the initial stages, Gobind Sagar Lake is poised to become an even more vital resource for fish production in the region.

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2025/26 are open for applications, offering a fully funded opportunity for doctoral study in the UK. These scholarships target individuals from least developed countries and vulnerable states, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), providing an exceptional platform for outstanding talent across the Commonwealth.

SCHOLARSHIP PURPOSE
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships aim to contribute to international development by supporting high-impact research. Scholars will enhance their teaching and research capacities, benefiting institutions both academically and professionally, while fostering global collaboration.

WHO CAN APPLY?
High-quality graduates with the potential to conduct world-class research that addresses key developmental challenges are encouraged to apply. Successful applicants are expected to become influential leaders and researchers contributing to long-term national and global development.

KEY SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS

• Application Deadline: October 15, 2024, 16:00 BST (15:00 GMT)
• Study Start Date: September/October 2025
• Scholarship Themes: Applications accepted under six CSC Development themes.
• Submission: Apply through the CSC online system only.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

• Airfare: Roundtrip fare from home country to the UK.
• Tuition Fees: Fully covered.
• Stipend: £1,378 per month (£1,690 in London).
• Other Allowances: Warm clothing, study travel grants, fieldwork provision, mid-term visit airfare, and family allowances.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• Citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Must be available to start studies in the UK by September 2025.
• Hold a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
• Demonstrate financial need.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications must be submitted via the CSC’s online system, with support from a designated nominator such as a national nominating agency or selected NGO.

For further details and to apply, visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website.

FreshtoHome, India’s leading domestic supplier of fish and seafood, is making waves in the industry with its impressive operations. The company delivers a staggering 35,000 metric tons of seafood annually to 5 million customers across 140 cities, achieving a remarkable 20 million deliveries each year.

Shan Kadavil, the co-founder and CEO of FreshtoHome, reveals that approximately 11 percent of these deliveries consist of shrimp. Kadavil’s journey from managing country operations for a global online gaming giant to revolutionizing the Indian seafood market reflects his commitment to transforming the industry. By focusing on online sales and forward-thinking branding strategies, he has effectively opened up the domestic market to high-quality seafood products.

The Indian seafood industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven largely by the younger generation’s increasing preference for seafood. This shift in consumer behavior is creating a surge in demand for seafood, including shrimp, making the market increasingly important. Kadavil emphasizes that the rising appetite for seafood is a trend that cannot be overlooked, and FreshtoHome is strategically positioned to capitalize on this growing demand.

FreshtoHome’s success can be attributed to its innovative approach to seafood distribution. By leveraging the power of e-commerce, the company has set new standards in the industry, ensuring that customers have access to fresh, high-quality seafood with the convenience of online ordering. This model not only meets the evolving needs of consumers but also enhances the overall seafood buying experience.

As the Indian seafood market continues to expand, FreshtoHome remains at the forefront, driving innovation and setting benchmarks for quality and service. The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction and its ability to adapt to market trends underscore its pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s seafood industry.

Applications are invited from eligible candidates for the recruitment of Young Professional-I (Two Posts) under the project “AINP-Ornamental Fish Breeding & Culture (Project Code No. 2049/3023)” on a purely temporary basis at ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA).

Post Details:

• Position: Young Professional-I (Two Posts: One in ICAR-CIBA, Chennai, and One at Kakdwip Research Centre of ICAR-CIBA, West Bengal)
• Project Name: AINP-Ornamental Fish Breeding & Culture (Project Code No. 2049/3023)
• Duration: One year from the date of joining

Essential Qualification:

• B.F.Sc., B.Sc. in Aquaculture/Industrial Fisheries/Marine Biology, or B.Sc. Zoology with Fisheries/Aquaculture experience

Desirable:

• Knowledge and experience in ornamental fish breeding and culture

Emoluments:

• Rs. 30,000/- (Consolidated) per month

Age Limit:

• Maximum 35 years for men and 40 years for women as of the date of the interview.
• Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC candidates as per government rules.

Place of Posting:

• ICAR-CIBA, Chennai, and Kakdwip Research Centre of ICAR-CIBA, West Bengal

Important Dates:

• Last Date for Submission of Biodata: 18th September 2024
• Date & Time of Interview: Will be intimated via email

Mode of Interview:

• Physical or suitable online platform

Application Procedure:

Candidates fulfilling the eligibility criteria are requested to send their application in the prescribed proforma along with their biodata via email to danithomass@gmail.com or dani.thomas@icar.gov.in on or before 18th September 2024. Late applications will not be entertained.

Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email to attend the interview. They must appear for the interview (online or offline) with the required documents. The Director, ICAR-CIBA, reserves the right to accept or reject any application. ICAR-CIBA will not correspond with applicants not called for an interview.

For more details, contact:
ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture