Srinagar: The two-day event, ‘Coldwater Fisheries in Jammu and Kashmir: Challenges and Opportunities,’ dedicated to World Fisheries Day (WFD), concluded at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir’s Faculty of Fisheries, Rangil campus on Wednesday.
The event featured various programs, including expert lectures, scientist-farmer interactions, awareness programs, debates, and painting competitions, aimed at shedding light on different aspects of this year’s theme.
Highlighting the global significance of fisheries in providing over 20% of animal protein intake for nearly 3 billion people, the event emphasized the vital role fishery plays in global food security and nutrition. However, it also addressed the threats posed by overfishing, climate change, and pollution, endangering aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of fishers. World Fisheries Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about these challenges and advocate for responsible fisheries management practices that balance conservation with the needs of fishing communities.
Prof MAA Siddique, Director of Education at SKUAST-K, who served as the chief guest, urged fisheries scientists to develop new technologies for enhancing fish production in the Union Territory (UT). He encouraged fisheries professionals to venture into businesses such as Ornamental Fisheries, Fish Kiosks, Fish Processing, and postharvest activities, promoting entrepreneurship among them.
Prof Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Dean Faculty of Fisheries at SKUAST-K, discussed the origin and significance of celebrating World Fisheries Day. He highlighted challenges faced by the coldwater fisheries sector, including low fish production, slow fish growth, high input costs, insufficient fish diversification for culture practices, destruction of aquatic resources, pollution, and climate change.
Dr. Mohd Ashraf Rather, the event organizer, provided insights into the seminar’s theme. Prof Irfan Ahmad, Head of the Division of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology, expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks.
The conclusion of the event marks a concerted effort to address challenges and harness opportunities in coldwater fisheries, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable and responsible fisheries practices.
