The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Kochi, celebrated World Fisheries Day with great enthusiasm today by organizing a “Students Interaction cum Brainstorming Programme” for students from the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS). This initiative aimed to inspire the next generation of fisheries professionals, fostering meaningful discussions on sustainable fishing practices and innovative technologies in the sector.
INSPIRING THE FUTURE: GUEST OF HONOUR
The event featured Smt. Chinnama Joseph, an accomplished fisherwoman and Vice President of the Inland Fishermen Cooperative Society, Vaikom, as the Guest of Honour. Smt. Chinnama shared her extraordinary journey spanning 55 years in the fishing industry, which she began at the tender age of 13.
Her stories of resilience, perseverance, and expertise captivated the audience, particularly the students, as she highlighted the critical role of women in the fishing sector. Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities in her career, she encouraged students to embrace innovation while staying committed to sustainable practices. In recognition of her invaluable contributions to the fishing community, ICAR-CIFT honored her during the event, applauding her dedication to the industry.
LEADERSHIP AND INSIGHTFUL SESSIONS
The programme was presided over by Dr. M.P. Ramesan, Head of the Fishing Technology Division at ICAR-CIFT, who emphasized the importance of preparing the younger generation to address emerging challenges in fisheries.
Technical sessions by eminent scientists provided deep insights into the future of fisheries:
- Dr. Madhu V.R. and Dr. Muhammed Ashraf P., Principal Scientists at ICAR-CIFT, discussed innovative fishing technologies and sustainable fisheries practices, outlining solutions for reducing bycatch, conserving marine biodiversity, and enhancing productivity.
- Senior scientists Dr. Prajith K.K. and Dr. Sandhya K.M. addressed key topics in fisheries technology, empowering students with cutting-edge knowledge and tools.
SIMULTANEOUS CELEBRATIONS ACROSS INDIA
The celebration extended beyond Kochi, with parallel events held at ICAR-CIFT’s research centers in Visakhapatnam, Mumbai, and Veraval. These programs showcased the institute’s commitment to promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture nationwide. At each location, researchers, students, and industry stakeholders joined hands to reaffirm their dedication to transforming the fisheries sector through innovation and sustainability.
CELEBRATING SUSTAINABILITY
World Fisheries Day serves as a reminder of the critical role that fisheries play in ensuring food security, employment, and ecological balance. Through its nationwide activities, ICAR-CIFT demonstrated its commitment to empowering youth, enhancing women’s participation, and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, marine pollution, and overfishing.
The event concluded with a call for collective action, urging students and stakeholders to innovate and collaborate to achieve a sustainable and inclusive future for the fisheries sector. This celebration was a testament to ICAR-CIFT’s enduring vision of transforming Indian fisheries through scientific excellence and community engagement.
