Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 21: The Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration celebrated World Fisheries Day today at the Auditorium of Tagore Government College of Education, Middle Point, highlighting the national theme “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Value Addition in Seafood Products.” Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Shri Arjun Sharma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman and Ms. Purva Garg, IAS, Secretary, A&N Administration also graced the occasion as guests of honour.
In a historic first for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the Administration launched open-sea cage culture, marking a major milestone in the region’s fisheries sector. At the event, the chief guest handed over leasing orders to the three selected applicants, engaging with them on their aspirations and challenges, and assuring them of sustained institutional support.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary underscored the significance of World Fisheries Day as a moment to reaffirm collective commitment to marine conservation and responsible harvesting. He highlighted the relevance of this year’s national theme and stressed that the A&N Islands possess immense potential to become a leading hub for sustainable fisheries and seafood-based industries.
The chief guest also launched the Training Manual and Documentary Videos on Seaweed Cultivation in the A&N Islands, developed as part of culmination of 45 days Seaweed culture training programme for SHGs to promote capacity-building and skill enhancement. He stated that such knowledge resources will empower local communities and help them tap into new avenues of sustainable livelihoods. He noted that the fisheries sector in the Islands is witnessing steady progress, and with coordinated efforts, it can contribute substantially to employment generation, export growth, and economic resilience. The Chief Secretary encouraged stakeholders to adopt scientific and eco-friendly fishing methods, upgrade skills, and explore new technologies that can enhance productivity. He further elaborated on the promising Tuna Cluster Development initiatives and stressed the importance of improving product quality, establishing cold-chain systems, and creating strong branding for island fish varieties in global markets. He added that the Administration remains committed to providing every possible support, be it technological assistance, training, infrastructure, or policy facilitation, to ensure that fishermen and fish farmers truly benefit from the region’s rich marine resources.
Ms. Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, Director of Fisheries, in her welcome address emphasized the importance of commemorating World Fisheries Day to recognize the valuable contributions of fishermen and fish farmers in ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods. She highlighted the Department’s recent initiatives to support the small-scale fishermen community across the Islands, reaffirming the Administration’s commitment to inclusive fisheries development. She elaborated on the progress of Open Sea Cage Culture, Seaweed Cultivation, and other emerging fisheries-based livelihood options that hold immense potential for boosting the island economy.
As part of the celebrations, the Department organized multiple competitions, including an Essay Writing Competition on “Fisheries Potential of A&N Islands: Way Forward for Fisheries Economy Development” for students of the Zoology Department, JNRM, and Marine Biology students of Pondicherry University; a Quiz Programme on “Wonder World of Fishes”; and a Poster Making Competition on “Marine Biodiversity of A&N Islands” for students of Government Senior Secondary Schools. These activities were designed to inspire young minds, foster curiosity about the marine ecosystem, and encourage their active involvement in conserving the Islands’ rich biodiversity. Prizes were distributed to the winners as recognition of their creativity and awareness.
To honour outstanding contributions to the fisheries sector, awards were presented to the Best Fish Farmer, Best Trader, Best Aquaculturist, Best Co-operative Society, Best Fish Processing Entrepreneur, Field Level Officers, and Sagar Mitras from the three zonal districts. Their dedication and relentless efforts in advancing fisheries development were acknowledged, motivating others to follow their exemplary path.
Technical sessions were also conducted by experts of various institutes as part of the celebration. Dr. C Babu, Fisheries Scientist, Fisheries Survey of India (Sri Vijaya Puram Base) on “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone of India Rules, 2025,” Dr. Jess Maria Wilson from ICAR-CIARI on “Tuna Cluster Development in A&N Islands,” and Dr. Souvrirajan, Dr. Arjun, Projects Scientists from ACOSTI–NIOT jointly led the session on “Mariculture Prospects in A&N Islands.” These sessions not only shared knowledge but also created a platform for collaborative learning, opening new perspectives on innovations and emerging opportunities in the fisheries sector.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Bhargav Chakravarty, Joint Director (Fisheries), expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, partner institutions, and stakeholders. He reiterated that the success of World Fisheries Day 2025 reflects the collective commitment of the Administration and the fishing community toward a sustainable, prosperous, and resilient fisheries future for the A&N Islands.