Shri George Kurian, Hon’ble Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Government of India, visited the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Kochi. The visit underscored the government’s focus on innovation and sustainability in the fisheries sector.
During his visit, the Minister toured various research laboratories at ICAR-CIFT, where he observed cutting-edge technological advancements aimed at fostering sustainable fisheries practices. Notably, Shri Kurian launched a series of upcycled products made from Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) recovered from abandoned fishing boats. This initiative addresses the pressing environmental challenge posed by abandoned FRP boats, which contribute significantly to marine pollution. ICAR-CIFT has successfully developed two types of composites from FRP debris. One composite can be utilized to create products such as large flower pots, vases, and landscaping furniture, while the other is suited for manufacturing items like waste bins and injection-molded plastic products. These innovations are expected to reduce the FRP waste volume at harbors significantly.
In a further move toward environmental conservation, Shri Kurian inaugurated CIFT Bioboost and Microboost, a bacterial consortium and compost developed by ICAR-CIFT to enhance waste management practices in the fisheries sector. The technology was handed over to Mr. Dipin Dileep, Ward Councillor of Ponnurunni Ward, Ernakulam, as part of a broader effort to promote sustainable waste management in local communities. Stakeholders also received training on utilizing the consortium for efficient waste disposal.
Additionally, the Minister formalized the transfer of technology by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with three stakeholder groups. These agreements pertain to the machinery line developed by ICAR-CIFT that converts fish waste into valuable products such as aquafeed and manure. This initiative is seen as a major step toward reducing fish waste and improving resource utilization in the industry.
Shri Kurian also released a series of ICAR-CIFT publications and honored Swachhta leaders as part of the Government’s Swachhta Action Plan. In his address, the Minister commended ICAR-CIFT’s initiatives, particularly its waste management strategies, emphasizing the significance of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in the fisheries sector. “Proper disposal of waste is crucial in preventing environmental pollution, and the innovative work by ICAR-CIFT in this area is highly commendable,” he stated.
Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, and Dr. V. Geethalakshmi, Nodal Officer of the Swachhta Action Plan, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the institute’s ongoing efforts in sustainable fisheries and waste management.
Source: ICAR-CIFT
