What Steps is CMFRI Taking for the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' Programme?

Synopsis
Discover how CMFRI is revolutionizing fish farming in India through the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' programme. This two-week initiative aims to empower farmers and fishermen with cutting-edge technologies to boost mariculture production. Join the movement for a sustainable future in aquaculture.
Key Takeaways
- CMFRI initiates a two-week outreach program.
- Aims to connect directly with fish farmers and fishermen.
- Targets around 1.5 crore farmers across the nation.
- Promotes advanced fish farming technologies.
- Focuses on boosting mariculture production significantly.
Kochi, May 29 (NationPress) The researchers at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have initiated a two-week outreach programme aimed at directly connecting with fish farmers and fishermen nationwide as part of the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' initiative launched by the Central government.
The 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' is a comprehensive nationwide effort spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in collaboration with state administrations.
Approximately 2,000 teams, composed of scientists and specialists from 113 ICAR institutes and 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), along with field officers from various state-level agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries departments, will participate in this campaign, targeting around 1.5 crore farmers across the nation.
CMFRI will utilize this initiative to promote its advanced technologies aimed at boosting India's mariculture production through broader acceptance.
Scientists from CMFRI will visit local villages, showcasing and elucidating advanced methodologies such as cage fish farming, marine ornamental fish farming, mussel farming, oyster farming, seaweed cultivation, innovative fish breeding techniques, and scientific coastal aquaculture.
CMFRI Director Grinson George stated that the community will receive insights on a variety of technologies and the potential of seaweed farming and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA).
"CMFRI aims to enhance productivity, targeting a fish production of 2.5 million tonnes from mariculture by 2047, compared to the current meager estimate of 1.5 lakh tonnes. Effectively adopting innovative technologies will significantly contribute to achieving this goal. We also intend to support the growth of start-up ventures within the sector by providing guidance and technical assistance," remarked George.
In Kerala, CMFRI's outreach teams, consisting of 36 scientists, will visit every district, working in close partnership with the relevant KVKs.
Similarly, all the Institute's Centres located in various coastal states will partake in the campaign within their designated regions.
"This initiative marks a pivotal connection between scientists and farmers; direct engagement will remarkably aid fishery scientists in tailoring their research and development efforts to meet the community's needs more proficiently," expressed George.
Besides technology dissemination, the CMFRI teams will gather essential feedback, comments, and insights from the farming and fishing communities to comprehend the specific challenges and needs faced by the farmers.
"The scientists will attentively listen to the stakeholders' concerns and cultivate a strong rapport with them.
The 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' represents a vital endeavor to ensure that scientific innovations yield practical benefits for grassroots communities," added George.