Field visit to progressive fishermen and mangrove conservationist at Thrissur, Kerala

    A field visit cum interaction was carried out with Shri. Vishwanathan, a traditional fisherman and field mangrove conservationist at Chettuva, Thrissur coastal district of Kerala on 25 November 2024. The family including his son, Shri Bibeesh operate traditional gillnet fishing, cast net fishing, clam and oyster collection and crab picking. Shri Viswanathan’s love for nature especially on mangroves dates back to 40 years, when he planted the first mangrove in the Chettuva estuary. Currently, he conducts regular awareness programmes on conservation of mangroves to tourists, students and local residents in the Chettuva estuary. Scientists, academicians and researchers also approach him for the sample collection, field data collection and mangrove afforestation programmes. During the interaction, Dr Sreekanth GB, Senior Scientist (FRM), ICAR-CCARI discussed about the technologies developed by the institute such as seabass polyculture, crab fattening system, and ornamental fish culture. The operation of the crab fattening system was also demonstrated to the fishermen. The fishermen assured all the support for the research and development activities of the institute.