NEW DELHI, Feb 12: On Wednesday, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh urged research institutes to promote the wider implementation of scientific practices among fishers and farmers.
Speaking at the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) held at the Pusa campus, the Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying underscored the government’s dedication to sustainable fisheries development.
Singh praised the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for its technological contributions and advancements in the country’s fisheries sector.
He emphasized that “research institutes must initiate capacity-building programs in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras to enhance the adoption of scientific methods among fishers and farmers.”
The minister highlighted India’s investment in innovative digital solutions, including the National Digital Fisheries Platform and various safety measures such as vessel monitoring, transponders, and emergency alerts to enhance the safety of fishermen at sea.
Additionally, he announced that the Kisan Credit Card scheme has been extended to cover fishermen and fish farmers, alongside the introduction of multiple insurance schemes for the fisheries sector.
The minister also inaugurated the 14th AFAF expo, which convened stakeholders from state fisheries departments, academia, research institutions, and the industry to exhibit technological advancements.
ICAR Director General Himanshu Pathak reported that the Council has developed 75 new fisheries technologies and improved fish varieties.
He reaffirmed ICAR’s commitment to sustainable, carbon-neutral fisheries and aquaculture to ensure long-term resilience in the industry.
Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi underscored the government’s transformative initiatives, significant investments, and the crucial role of startups in fostering innovation for India’s blue economy.
Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General of WorldFish, Malaysia, addressed global innovations in fisheries and commended India for its groundbreaking initiatives in sustainable aquaculture.
Neil Loneragan, President of the Asian Fisheries Society in Kuala Lumpur, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in advancing the global fisheries sector.
The event featured over 20 primary presentations from distinguished experts both from India and abroad, attracting 1,000 participants from 24 countries. (PTI)
