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Babu, a seasoned ferry operator from Polavaram village in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, has recently garnered attention for his long-standing role in safely transporting passengers across the Godavari River. According to Local 18 Andhra Pradesh, Babu has been rowing ferries for decades, continuing a family tradition that dates back to 1912.

Babu’s family has been involved in the ferry business since 1980, with roots tracing back over a century. In an earlier interview, Babu shared that his grandfathers were among the first to operate ferries in the region, helping people travel between riverbanks, initially using cycles before transitioning to boats. Today, Babu and fellow operators ferry passengers between Polavaram in West Godavari district and Purushothapatnam in East Godavari district, ensuring their safety throughout the journey.

Safety remains Babu’s top priority, particularly during the monsoon season when the Godavari River is prone to flooding. He emphasized that ferry operations cease immediately upon receiving the first flood warning, ensuring no risks are taken. Babu advises that anyone interested in operating ferries must undergo proper training and obtain a driving license from the port authorities. Additionally, life jackets are provided to all passengers as part of the safety measures.

The ferries, which currently weigh around two and a half tons, are operated with strict adherence to safety regulations, carrying a limited number of passengers and cargo, typically between 500 to 1000 kilograms per trip. Babu mentioned that two ferries run daily, providing not only safe passage for passengers but also employment opportunities for three others.

Despite the challenges posed by floods, Babu notes that the ferry business remains profitable on most days, reflecting a vital and enduring service to the local communities.

Source: News18

A remarkable feat unfolded off the coast of Nantucket on August 16, when 12-year-old Stone Fornes reeled in a massive white marlin weighing 118.2 pounds. This impressive catch, achieved while fishing with seasoned angler Elliot Sudal, may soon earn Fornes a coveted junior world record.

The current record for white marlin, set at 102 pounds off Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, in 2011, is recognized by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Fornes’s catch, if verified, would significantly surpass this benchmark.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Fornes recounted the grueling 90-minute battle to land the fish, describing the marlin as an “acrobat” for its remarkable agility.

Elliot Sudal, a veteran captain with 12 years of experience on Nantucket, lauded Fornes’s achievement, emphasizing the technical skill and endurance required to secure the catch. “It’s wildly impressive that Stone was able to catch this fish… from spotting it to getting it to eat a bait, let alone fighting it for an hour and a half,” Sudal remarked. “It was an epic battle, with the marlin jumping completely out of the water several times and super technical keeping the boat positioned correctly.”

Sudal also expressed his gratitude to the local fishing community for their support in transporting the fish and managing the complex paperwork required for the world record submission. “I feel like most 12-year-olds are playing on iPads, while [Stone’s] off catching world records,” Sudal added, noting the young angler’s newfound respect on the docks.

Although Fornes typically practices catch-and-release, the potential world record necessitated keeping the fish. With the assistance of CRU Oyster Bar Nantucket, the marlin was later cooked and enjoyed locally.

Don and Lauren Fornes, Stone’s parents, shared their pride in their son’s dedication to fishing. “He’s poured everything into this passion,” Don Fornes said. “And he’s learned that, some days, you come up short, but if you stay after it, you can eventually win big.”

The entire Nantucket team played a crucial role in preserving the fish, securing a certified scale, and enlisting a scientist to confirm the species. The IGFA representative confirmed that the record confirmation process typically takes four to six weeks. “Once received, the application will be pending and will enter the official review process,” the representative stated. “Once it has been reviewed, a decision will be made on the approval of the record.”

Stone Fornes’s extraordinary accomplishment not only highlights his passion for the sport but also underscores the enduring spirit of the fishing community that rallied to support this young angler in his pursuit of a world record.

Source: Fox News channel

Aqua Doctor Solutions, a leading player in the aquaculture industry, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the Runner-Up Trophy at the Agri-Eureka National Business Challenge Award for 2024. The prestigious award was conferred by the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad, an esteemed institution under the Government of India.

The Agri-Eureka National Business Challenge is a platform that recognizes and rewards innovative solutions and business models in the agriculture sector. The competition attracted a diverse range of participants from across the country, showcasing their groundbreaking ideas and initiatives. Aqua Doctor Solutions’s participation in the challenge highlighted their commitment to sustainable aquaculture practices and their innovative approach to addressing the industry’s challenges.

The Runner-Up Trophy is a testament to Aqua Doctor Solutions’s dedication to excellence and their ability to develop impactful solutions. The company’s innovative products and services have been instrumental in improving the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture operations. By winning this prestigious award, Aqua Doctor Solutions has further solidified its position as a leading player in the industry.

This achievement is a proud moment for the entire team at Aqua Doctor Solutions, and it reflects their hard work, innovation, and commitment to sustainable aquaculture. The company’s success in the Agri-Eureka National Business Challenge is a testament to the potential of Indian entrepreneurs in driving positive change in the agriculture sector.

As Aqua Doctor Solutions continues to grow and expand, they are committed to leveraging their expertise and innovation to address the challenges facing the aquaculture industry and contribute to a more sustainable and food-secure future.

The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), in collaboration with the Society of Fisheries Technologists (India) (SOFTI), is organizing a prestigious National Seminar on “Aqua Food Excellence: Innovations in Post-Harvest Fisheries.” This landmark event will take place at the ICAR-CIFT headquarters in Kochi, Kerala, and promises to be a significant gathering for professionals, researchers, and policymakers in the field of fisheries.

About the Seminar
The seminar will focus on the latest advancements and innovations in post-harvest fisheries, aiming to enhance the value and sustainability of aquatic products. The event will feature thematic sessions on:

1. Innovations in Fish Processing and Value Addition – Showcasing techniques that improve product quality and market value.
2. Advanced Fish Packaging Techniques – Covering methods that ensure safety and extend the shelf life of aquatic products.
3. Fish Waste Management and Circular Economy – Exploring sustainable practices for minimizing waste and maximizing resource utilization.
4. Bioactive Substances and Nutraceuticals from Aquatic Sources – Highlighting potential health benefits and commercial prospects.
5. Quality and Safety of Aquatic Food Products – Emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards.
6. Marketing and Extension Strategies in Fisheries – Examining market dynamics and livelihoods.
7. Industry Interface – Fostering collaboration between researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers.

Significance
The seminar aims to serve as a platform for multidisciplinary collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the exploration of innovative solutions. It will play a crucial role in advancing the fisheries industry, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the global competitiveness of India’s aquatic food sector.

Registration and Participation
The seminar will be held in a hybrid mode, with options for both offline and online participation. Registration is mandatory, and interested participants are encouraged to submit their abstracts by 26 August 2024. The seminar offers various registration fee options:

• SOFTI Members: Rs. 3000/-
• Non-Members: Rs. 3500/-
• Online Participants (Faculty/Industry): Rs. 2000/-
• Students/Research Fellows (Online/Offline): Rs. 1500/-

For registration and abstract submission, please visit the registration link and send your abstracts to nationalseminarcift2024@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the future of post-harvest fisheries and be part of an event that could shape the next big innovations in the industry!

In a surprising and distressing development, a large number of dead fish were found floating in the waters of Triveni Sangamam, the renowned confluence of the three seas in Kanyakumari. The fish, identified as belonging to the “Malvan” type, appeared in significant quantities, raising concerns among local residents and environmentalists.

Since Tuesday morning, the sea around Kanyakumari has exhibited unusual conditions. One side of the sea has been notably rough, while the other side has been experiencing receding waters. This unusual behavior has been linked to reports indicating that the sea water in the area was exceptionally cold.

According to local fishermen, who ventured out to the sea for their routine activities, they observed a considerable number of dead fish when they returned to shore. The cold water temperatures may have played a critical role in this mass die-off. It is suspected that the abrupt change in sea conditions and temperature might have contributed to the fatalities among the fish.

The dead fish, which initially floated in the middle of the sea, eventually drifted to the shore, causing a significant disturbance in the local community. As the fish washed up on Kanyakumari beach, the scene attracted considerable attention and concern from residents, who were taken aback by the sudden influx of dead fish.

The situation has prompted a commotion among locals, who are worried about the potential environmental impact and the possible causes behind this mass die-off. Authorities and environmental experts are expected to investigate the incident further to determine the underlying causes and assess the implications for the local marine ecosystem.

SOURCE: DT NEXT

Memorial university seeking a motivated PhD student to join research at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, focusing on fish ecology and stock assessment in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The research project will explore variations in fish body condition across communities in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. By studying the relationship between fish weight and length, this research aims to uncover key indicators of ecosystem change.

Research Focus:

• Compiling a comprehensive database of fish weight and length observations from the Northeast US, the Scotian Shelf, Gulf of St. Lawrence, and Newfoundland and Labrador marine ecosystems.
• Investigating long-term shifts in fish body condition within and across these ecosystems.
• Collaborating with researchers from Memorial University, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Funding:

• Annual stipend of $27,000 for four years.
• Additional funds for travel to professional meetings and conferences.

Location:

• The student will be enrolled in a fully funded four-year PhD program in Fisheries Science at the Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, in St. John’s, Canada.
• The Fisheries and Marine Institute is Canada’s leading centre for ocean education, training, and research. St. John’s is a safe, friendly city with rich historical charm, vibrant cultural life, and easy access to outdoor activities.

Requirements:

• MSc in Fisheries Science/Ecology, Marine Ecology/Biology, Oceanography, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated quantitative skills and experience with R or Python.
• Strong written and communication skills.

Start Date:

• January, May, or September 2025.

To Apply:

• Send a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the position, CV with two academic references, and university transcripts (official or unofficial) to D. Matthew Robertson at matthew.robertson@mi.mun.ca.
• Application will remain open until October 15, 2024, or until the position is filled.