Car Nicobar, June 18: The Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration in collaboration with NETFISH-MPEDA, Chennai conducted a one-day training programme on ‘Capacity Building on Hygienic and Sanitary Procedures’ for ST community at Car Nicobar. The programme was graced by Shri Lionald Nicomed, Chairman, Tribal Council, Car Nicobar as the chief guest while Shri Martin Luther, Secretary, CTC was the guest of honour. Shri Paul David, 1st Captain of Perka Village, Dr. Arulmoorthy, State Coordinator, NETFISH-MPEDA, Chennai, along with officials from the Department of Fisheries were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest, lauded the efforts of the Department of Fisheries and NETFISH-MPEDA in empowering the local fisher community through such meaningful initiatives. He emphasized the importance of adopting hygienic practices to increase income levels and access better market opportunities.
Shri Martin Luther emphasized that this effort greatly enhanced the effectiveness of the training by breaking language barriers and ensuring that the critical concepts related to capacity building on hygienic and sanitary procedures were clearly understood by the local fisherfolk.
Smti V. Sheeja, Deputy Director, Car Nicobar, while welcoming the gathering, informed that the programme was aimed at creating awareness among fishers about the importance of hygienic handling and maintaining sanitary practices at every stage from catch to consumption.
Dr. Arulmoorthy said, the training programme was designed to provide both theoretical insights and hands-on practical exposure to the participants.
The technical sessions focused on critical aspects of hygiene and sanitation in fisheries, including hygienic handling of fish immediately after harvest, sanitary maintenance of landing centres and processing sites, proper usage and maintenance of tools and equipment, adoption of Good Hygienic Practices (GHP)and Implementation of Sanitary Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs).
As part of the training programme, fishing crates, gloves, and water cans were distributed to the fishers by the Chairman and Secretary of the Tribal Council, Car Nicobar, to encourage the adoption of hygienic practices in their daily fishing activities.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from fishers across various villages of Car Nicobar, reflecting their keen interest in enhancing their knowledge and practices related to hygiene and sanitation in fisheries. The programme concluded with distribution of certificates to the participants.