In a significant development, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been inked to bolster fish processing capabilities in the northeastern states of Manipur and Nagaland. The agreement, facilitated under the Ministry of Cooperation, marks the expansion of the first multi-state cooperative society in the region. Signed between Bharathimana Fishermen Development Cooperative Ltd (Bharathimanaco) and the ICAR – Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) Cochin, a leading institution in fish processing, the MoU aims to elevate the fishery sector in the region.
Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, and Dr. Ramanando Khundrakpam, Chairman of Bharathimanaco, formalised the agreement. Under the terms of the MoU, ICAR-CIFT will provide skill-based training programmes and technical assistance for establishing processing units, focusing on value-added fishery products. Additionally, the institute will offer technology inputs and other resources for the welfare of the farming community, as well as utilise its Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for the project’s benefit.
Following the signing, Dr. Geethalaksmi, Principal Scientist of ICAR-CIFT Cochin, and Umesh Pochappan, Chairman of Bharathikerkar, Kerala, and former governing body member of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad, were also present. This renewed collaboration builds upon the achievements of the initial MoU signed in April 2022, which expired recently.
The revitalised partnership is poised to invigorate the fish food processing sector, aiming to produce hygienic and nutritious fish-based products for the wider populace. Furthermore, it is expected to contribute to the socio-economic advancement of the fish farming community in the region, remarked Dr. Ramanando. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable development and enhance livelihood opportunities in the fisheries sector across Manipur and Nagaland.
