Parshottam Rupala, the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (FAHD), led the charge at the National Conference on Promoting Seaweed Cultivation held on January 27, 2024, in Koteshwar (Kori Creek), Kutch, Gujarat. The main goal of the conference was to highlight the importance of seaweed cultivation in India and encourage its growth nationwide. The event drew various distinguished guests, including Vinod Chavda, Member of Parliament for Kutch, Pradhyumansinh Mahipatsinh Jadeja, MLA for Abdesa, as well as respected officials like Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, and Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General of ICAR, among others.
Union Minister Parshottam Rupala emphasized the crucial importance of seaweed farming, pointing out its ability to expand marine output, boost income for fish farmers, and reduce dependence on old fishing techniques. He urged fishermen and fisherwomen to adopt seaweed cultivation as a way to open up various product possibilities and improve the lives of coastal communities.
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, discussed the obstacles and prospects in the seaweed farming industry. He emphasized the importance of creative solutions, policy structures, and teamwork to tackle challenges in the seaweed supply chain and drive its progress.
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Union Minister Rupala, along with other dignitaries, toured the Kori Creek Project Site. There, they witnessed different seaweed farming methods presented by research institutions and pilot initiatives. Advanced techniques like Raft Culture & Tube Net pilots demonstrated the promise of seaweed cultivation in enhancing marine food production.
The conference hosted displays by fisheries startups and research institutes, giving entrepreneurs a platform to showcase products made from seaweed and share how it’s grown. Union Minister Rupala talked with entrepreneurs and scientists, encouraging conversation and teamwork to boost innovation in the field.
The government showed strong support by giving out refrigerated vehicles and motorcycles equipped with iceboxes to beneficiaries. This helps improve infrastructure and transportation in the fisheries industry. Also, approval was given for various projects under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), showing the government’s dedication to promoting growth in seaweed farming.
With more than 300 attendees from various fields, the conference helped people share knowledge and best practices, setting the stage for the widespread growth of seaweed farming in India’s fisheries industry. It sparked discussions on collaboration and forming partnerships to move the sector ahead.
Backed by strong government support, involvement from stakeholders, and new ideas, India is ready to lead in sustainable seaweed farming. This will help conserve marine biodiversity and boost the economy in coastal areas.
