ICAR-CCARI organized a field day cum farmer interface at Kundapura, Karnataka

            ICAR-CCARI, Goa organized a field day cum farmer interface and input distribution programme under SCSP at Kundapura, Udupi, Karnataka on 6^th March 2024.  Dr. Gokuldas PP (Senior Scientist (Animal Reproduction), ICAR-CCARI), Dr. Sreekanth GB, (Senior Scientist (FRM), ICAR-CCARI), Dr Shivakumar Haragi (Associate Professor (Marine Biology), Dept. of Marine Biology, Karwar, Karnatak University, Dharwad), Shri. Ravi K, Shri. Hemaraj (progressive fishermen and fish farmers from Karnataka), and Mr. Melbin Lal (Young Professional, ICAR-CCARI) along with 20 fishermen/fish farmers participated in the programme. While addressing the fishermen and farmers, Dr Shivakumar appreciated the efforts of ICAR-CCARI for their kind guidance, and technical support to the fishermen and farmers in the coastal region. Dr. Sreekanth GB highlighted the importance of the scheme and ICAR-CCARI is making their continuous efforts to improve the income and livelihood of the fishermen and farmers in the coastal region. He has also appreciated the fishermen for their novel endeavors and efforts to improve fisheries resources through cage culture and also promoting sustainable fishing practices. Dr Gokuldas emphasized on the importance of alterative livelihood options and also incorporating small-scale livestock and poultry farming in the context of changing coastal climate. Shri. Hemaraj, progressive fishermen urged the fishermen, farmers, research organizations and developmental agencies to initiate need-based research and on-field experiments to improve the package of practices for fish culture and fishing techniques. It was also recommended by the experts to form a self-help-group of fishermen and farmers from the region to promote integrated farming (including agriculture, processing and livestock farming) and value addition through different developmental schemes. Further, the estuarine fish traps, fishing gear materials (gillnets), fish posters and extension folders on scientific livestock farming were distributed to 20 beneficiaries (including 5 women). The beneficiaries also assured all technical and logistic support for the research and development activities of ICAR-CCARI. Shri. Ravi K, a young progressive fisherman cum fish farmer from Kundapura proposed vote of thanks. Dr Sreekanth GB, Dr Gokuldas PP, Dr Trivesh Mayekar (Scientist (Fish genetics and breeding), ICAR-CCARI), Mr. Borges BB (Project assistant (ICAR-CCARI)) and Mr. Melbin Lal coordinated the programme.