20th April 2024, Kochi Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister visited the innovative and strategic seaweed farming sites developed by ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi along the Indo-Pak border marine waters of Kori and Padala in Gujarat’s Kutch district today. The visit influenced India’s mariculture history, promoting political and social security, farmer well-being, and accelerating the country’s seaweed mission.
Dr. Mishra expressed a keen interest in discussing the economics of production and the socio-economic implications of this project.
The project introduced custom-made HDPE rafts, valued at Rs 16,000, for cultivating Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed. These rafts are valued at Rs. 16,000, have a 20-year lifespan, and can withstand weights up to 0.3 to 0.5 tons per raft. The grid technology surpasses conventional methods in Tamil Nadu and yields 300 to 400 kgs per raft. The project’s strategic significance, particularly in regions like Kutch along the Indo-Pak border, is a key highlight. The project is poised to redefine the seaweed sector and harness the potential of innovative grid technology.
ICAR-CMFRI’s innovative grid technology, epitomized Prime Minister’s ‘Aatmnirbhar Bharat’ spirit by empowering seaweed farmers through indigenous expertise and advanced technology.
Director General of the BSF, Principal Secretary, Dept. of Tourism, Govt. of Gujarat, Chief Forest Conservator, Govt. of Gujarat, District Magistrate of Bhuj, Inspector General of Police, Govt. of Gujarat, and senior officials from the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of Gujarat accompanied the Principal Secretary.
(Source: ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi)
