8th November 2024, Kochi
Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, inaugurated an awareness workshop-cum-demonstration of potential drone applications in the fisheries sector at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute today. He highlighted the transformative impact of this technology, stating that drones would emerge as a game-changer in the fishing sector, providing tools to address several critical challenges with precision and efficiency.
Shri Kurian emphasized the vital role of drones in managing aquaculture, monitoring fish markets, and assessing fisheries infrastructure damage, especially during natural disasters. He highlighted the use of underwater drones to track fish behavior, detect distress signals like erratic swimming, and provide real-time data for sustainable fisheries management. The Minister also announced the Department of Fisheries’ plan to develop 100 climate-resilient coastal fishing villages (CRCFV) nationwide, aimed at boosting the economic resilience of coastal communities facing climate change. These villages will feature facilities like fish drying yards, processing centers, and emergency rescue services while promoting climate-resilient practices such as seaweed cultivation, artificial reefs, and green fuel initiatives. Additionally, Shri Kurian revealed the government’s plan to install transponders in 100,000 marine fishing vessels this year, with a budget of Rs 364 crores.
Smt Neetu Kumari Prasad, IAS, Joint Secretary, Dept of Fisheries; Dr B K Behra, Chief Executive, National Fisheries Development Board; Dr Grinson George, Director, ICAR-CMFRI; and Dr George Ninan, Director, ICAR-CIFT, along with other officials, graced the occasion.
The event showcased various drone applications, including dispensing aquaculture inputs, monitoring water bodies, assessing marine mammal populations, transporting live fish, conducting rescue operations, and more.
The event was attended by around 700 fishermen and fish farmers across Kerala.
(Source: ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi)
Read more: https://www.icar.org.in/george-kurian-inaugurates-workshop-potential-drone-applications
