ICAR-CCARI in collaboration with ICAR-NBFGR conducted program on Community Empowerment through Sensitization and Capacity Development of Coastal Fishermen at Cacra, Goa

            ICAR-CCARI, in collaboration with ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow, organized a sensitization and capacity-building programme on January 27, 2025, at Shri Sateri Ravalnath Temple Hall, Cacra, Goa, under the Scheduled Tribe Component (STC) Scheme. The initiative aimed to empower coastal fishermen by enhancing their knowledge and skills in sustainable fisheries practices. The programme was inaugurated in the presence of distinguished guests, including Mr. Rupesh Bhamoikar, Deputy District Manager (DDM), NABARD, Goa, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, and Mrs. Varsha Naik Desai, Superintendent, Department of Fisheries, Goa. Dr. Trivesh Mayekar, Scientist, ICAR-CCARI, welcomed the attendees and outlined the objectives of the event.The programme was convened by Dr. U.K. Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow, and Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, Goa. Dr. Sarkar addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of fish conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and the significance of the monsoon fishing ban. The fishermen were sensitized to various aspects of sustainable fishing practices, nutritional significance of indigenous species, and fish disease management through expert-led technical sessions. Dr. Trivesh Mayekar shared knowledge on coastal aquaculture practices and fish germplasm conservation and breeding techniques of various fishes.  Dr. Sreekanth G.B. Sr. Scientist, Scientist, Dr. Ranjan Singh, Dr. Anutosh Paria, and Dr. Shripad Bhat shared valuable insights on topics such as institutional efforts for community empowerment, conservation of native fish germplasms, breeding and propagation techniques, nutritional importance of small indigenous species, and fish disease management, providing practical knowledge and strategies for sustainable fisheries development.

As part of the programme, essential fishery inputs were like fishing net and fish traps were distributed to fishermen’s to strengthen their coastal fishing activities. A dedicated scientist-fishermen interactive session was conducted, providing a platform for fishermen to voice their concerns and receive expert guidance on practical solutions. The event concluded with a field visit to Cacra Beach, where participants observed marine fish landings, gaining hands-on exposure to real-time fisheries operations.
The programme successfully fostered collaboration between research institutions and coastal communities, promoting sustainable fisheries management and enhancing the livelihoods of fishermen. The event was efficiently coordinated by Dr. Anutosh Paria, Scientist, ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow; Dr. Trivesh Mayekar, Scientist, ICAR-CCARI, Goa; Dr. Sreekanth G.B., Scientist, ICAR-CCARI, Goa; and Dr. Ranjan Singh, Senior Technical Assistant, ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow. Technical assistance was provided by Mr. Vishwajeet Prajapati, Technical Officer, Goa, and Mr. Harshvardhan Shetye, Young Professional, ICAR-CCARI, Goa.This initiative marked a significant step towards empowering coastal fishermen with knowledge and resources, reinforcing sustainable fisheries development in the region.