Tribal empowerment programme by ICAR-CCARI: distribution of fishing inputs to traditional fishermen of Goa

 

     ICAR – Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Old Goa, Goa is involved in Tribal Welfare projects funded by Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi to improve the livelihood status of coastal farmers and fishermen. The institute organised a Scheduled Tribe Component (STC) programme for the welfare of tribal fishermen of Goa settled along the Zuari estuary. As an outcome of the research conducted by the institute, it is found that a mesh size of 36-40 mm will be ecologically sustainable for the fishery and economically feasible for the fishermen. About 100 traditional fishermen operate currently in Zuari estuary distributed in villages; Nauxim, Cacra, Shirdhona, Bambolim and Odxal, Tiswadi Taluke, North Goa. Since 2013, ICAR-CCARI conducts participatory research activities in co-ordination with traditional fishermen, biodiversity management committees and local inhabitants to document the fishery resources, catch data and species diversity in estuaries of Goa. About 400 fish and shellfish species are identified from the estuaries through the participatory approach. In the recent past, the natural disasters such as cyclones, storm surge, high waves, and most importantly, the current covid-19 pandemic impacted the fisheries livelihood in the coastal region. In this context to support the fishermen, a programme was organized on 29^th May, 2021 at the Institute in which 200 kg of fishing net and 24 cast fishing nets were distributed to 25 tribal fishermen of Shree. Sateri Fishermen co-operative society from Tiswadi Taluke. Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI welcomed the members of the society in presence of Dr. Smita Mazumdar, Deputy Director, Directorate of Fisheries, Govt. of Goa; Mr. Namdev Naik, Sarpanch (St. Cruz); and Dr. Paramesha V, Scientist (Agronomy) and STC coordinator, ICAR-CCARI. The director appreciated the efforts of fishermen in supporting the institute to document, conserve and manage the fishery of the estuary. Deputy Director of Fisheries welcomed the great initiative from the institute and ensured the complete co-operation from the directorate for research and extension activities. Further the dignitaries distributed the fishing nets to the members of the society. The members also appreciated the efforts of the institute in improving the fishing conditions, income and livelihood of the fishermen. They also assured continued participation in the research and development activities. Dr. Sreekanth GB, Scientist (Fisheries resource management) and Dr. Trivesh Mayekar, Scientist (Fish genetics and breeding) co-ordinated the programme.