ICAR-CCARI organised a fishermen interface and distribution of fishing inputs at Thrissur, Kerala

            ICAR-CCARI, Goa organized a fishermen interface and distribution of fishing inputs under SCSP in Venkitangu Panchayat, near Chettuva, Thrissur, Kerala on 2 March 2024. During the interface, Dr. Sreekanth GB, (Senior Scientist, ICAR-CCARI), Dr. Jijo Itttoop (Associate Professor, Department of AAHM, KUFOS), Smt. Shruti Mol (Fisheries Extension Officer), Ms. Arunima B (Project Officer, MATSYAFED) and Smt. Shahana PA (Project Co-ordinator, Department of Fisheries) were present. While inaugurating the function, Smt. Chandhni Venu, Panchayat President (Venkitangu) appreciated the efforts of ICAR-CCARI and KUFOS for stepping down to the real challenges of the fishermen and making efforts to resolve some of their field level problems. Smt. Poornima Nikhil, Member, Ward 14 expressed that the all the departments, and research organisations to come with latest innovations in the fisheries sector and to support the fishermen for improving their livelihood. 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 in the coastal region. He has also mentioned the excellent functioning of the co-operative society (which is regarded as one of the best in inland fisheries societies of Kerala), and their efficient fish marketing system at Kodamukk landing site occurs in the early morning hours (5.30 to 6.30 am everyday). Dr. Jijo Itttoop has assured all technical and scientific guidance and continuous monitoring of the fishermen initiatives in the estuary. Further, the fishing gear materials (gillnets) were distributed to about 20 fishermen from the Venkitangu Inland Fishermen Co-operative Society. Shri. Aanandhan UA, President of the society urged the researchers and developmental agencies to initiate actions for improving the fishery in Chettuva, by removal of the excessive siltation through advanced technologies (silt pusher and use silt for agriculture), control of illegal fishing activities (participatory monitoring by fisheries department and fishermen), participatory conservation of fish habitats (fish protected area) and also to support the fishermen with fishing aids and aquaculture ventures such as cage culture. It was also recommended by the experts to form a self-help-group of fishermen and farmers of the society to promote integrated farming and value addition in agriculture in the region through different schemes. Shri. Mohanan KK, a senior fishermen of the society proposed the vote of thanks.