Distribution of fishing gear materials and ropes to tribal fishermen along Zuari estuary
Distribution of fishing gear materials and ropes to tribal fishermen along Zuari estuary
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 make a change in the livelihood of coastal farmers and fishermen of the country. A number of tribal artisanal fishermen reside along the Zuari estuary especially in Nauxim, Cacra and Odxal of Tiswadi Taluke. In this regard, a programme on “Distribution of eco-friendly fishing gears and ropes” was organised at ICAR-CCARI, Old Goa on 15th February, 2016. Fishing gear (gillnet) materials (300 kg) and ropes (200 kg) were distributed among thirty tribal fisher-folk of Nauxim, Cacra, Odxal and Siridao.
Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh, Director, ICAR-CCARI welcomed the gathering and briefed about the research and extension activities of the institute. He mentioned about the Tribal Sub Plan programme of Govt. of India and how the fishermen and farmers can be benefited through the project. While inaugurating the function, Secretary (Fisheries), Govt. of Goa, Shri. Amjad Tak, IAS appreciated the efforts of ICAR-CCARI for improving the livelihood of fishermen and agricultural farmers through their research and extension services. Smt. Megha Kirkar, Superintendent and Chandresh, Asst. Superintendent of Fisheries, Department of Fisheries were also present during the occasion. There was series of publications (Book- “Goan Sea Food Recipes” and Posters on Fisheries Resources of Goa) released from ICAR-CCARI during the function. Mr. Sanjay Pereira, Head of the Shree Shantadurga Fishermen Association proposed vote of thanks and urged full support from Department of Fisheries, Ministries and research institutions like ICAR-CCARI for the conservation and augmentation of fishery in Zuari estuary and for the better livelihood of tribal fisher-folk. Mr. Sreekanth GB and Mrs. Manju Lekshmi N, Scientist (FRM), Fisheries Section, ICAR-CCARI co-ordinated the entire TSP project and distribution programme. They have also assured that a feedback study will be followed to analyse the effectiveness of the TSP programme for the welfare of coastal tribal fisher-folk in Goa.