Interaction with fishermen association, Venkitangu, Thrissur, Kerala

     An interaction was organized with the Venkitangu Inland Fishermen Development and Welfare Cooperative Society at Kodamukk, Thrissur coastal district, Kerala on 7 December 2024. The interaction was made based on the request received from the society to discuss the challenges in marketing of fish and also starting the crab fattening unit. Dr Sreekanth GB, Senior Scientist from ICAR-CCARI provided valuable suggestions to the society for upgrading their marketing strategies including 1) by creating whatsapp group and advertising, 2) YouTube channel, and 3) initiating a mobile fish supply system. Also, the surplus fish caught during peak season can be salt-dried and preserved, which will be a source of income for the fisherwomen in the society. The advisories on the water quality and maintenance of crab fattening units were also provided. A visit was also made to observe the fishing patrol boat maintained at Kodamukk for prohibiting the illegal and indiscriminate fishing activities in the estuary. Dr Sreekanth appreciated the efforts of the society to conserve the fisheries resources and to increase fish catch from the estuary. He has also assured continuous scientific guidance from the institute for the initiatives in fisheries, livestock and agriculture. Shri Anandhan, President of the society and Shri. Velayudhan, member of the society participated in the interaction.