The Government of Maharashtra has initiated a significant step towards fostering responsible aquaculture practices with the launch of a project titled ‘Geospatial mapping of potential zones for expanding responsible aquaculture in Maharashtra’. Spearheaded by the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA), Mumbai, this endeavor is funded by the state government and aims to facilitate the expansion of aquaculture while ensuring environmental sustainability and mitigating multi-user conflicts.
Shri Sudhir Sachchidanand Mungantiwar, Union Cabinet Minister of Forest, Cultural Affairs, and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of leveraging Maharashtra’s resources for aquaculture development in an environmentally sustainable manner. He highlighted the project’s significance in fostering harmonious relationships between farmers, fisheries, and forests.
Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, underscored the project’s importance and the role of CIBA technologies in promoting eco-friendly aquaculture practices. He expressed gratitude to the Department of Fisheries for their support in advancing sustainable aquaculture initiatives.
Dr. Atul Patne, IAS, Commissioner of Fisheries, Government of Maharashtra, provided insights into the project’s objectives and its pivotal role in promoting responsible aquaculture practices in the state.
Dr. Ramo Rao, IAS, Additional Principal Conservator of Forest, highlighted the efforts of the mangrove cell and mangrove foundation in safeguarding Maharashtra’s mangroves. He stressed the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems for ecological balance and sustainability.
The launch event witnessed the participation of esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. C.N. Ravishankar, Director of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mr. Yuvraj Chougule, Joint Commissioner of the Department of Fisheries, and officials from the Department of Fisheries, Mangrove Cell, and Mangrove Foundation.
The project on geospatial mapping holds immense promise in guiding aquaculture expansion in Maharashtra while ensuring the preservation of critical ecosystems such as mangroves and agricultural fields. By leveraging advanced mapping technologies and interdisciplinary collaborations, the initiative aims to pave the way for sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices, contributing to the socio-economic development of the region while safeguarding its natural resources for future generations.
