Port Blair, July 2: A three days long training programme on ‘Marine Ornamental Fish Breeding’ by Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration in association with ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Cochin got underway today at Fisheries Training Centre, Marine Hill. A first of its kind training with an aim to utilize the potential Marine Biodiversity of A&N Islands is devised by the Department of Fisheries to impart technical knowledge and hands-on experience in breeding, seed production and larval rearing of marine ornamental fishes especially clown fish and damsel. The major technical advancement in the field of marine ornamental fisheries achieved by ICAR-CMFRI, Cochin will be showcased in the form of theoretical and practical sessions during the programme.

The training programme was inaugurated by Shri Vishwendra, Secretary (Fisheries). He appreciated the efforts of the Department of Fisheries in taking up training in the specialized areas of fisheries sector and extended all support of A&N Administration in setting up of Marine Ornamental Fish Breeding Units in the Islands by the beneficiaries. He also emphasized on the economic benefit of marine ornamental fish trade and opined that the captive breeding of such fishes will help the Islands to be a major player in marine ornamental fish trading and export sector without exploitation of natural stocks.

During the inaugural session, the Secretary (Fisheries) also released a comprehensive training manual which covers all the aspects of marine ornamental fish breeding, including brooder collection, creation of breeding set up, larval nutrition and health management. This can be a ready reference for any interested entrepreneurs of the Islands for commencement of ventures in this sector.

Shri Vikram Singh, Director of Fisheries, in his presidential address highlighted about the financial assistance under PMMSY for setting up of backyard Marine Ornamental Fish Units, Integrated Marine Ornamental Fish units, Establishment of Ornamental Fish Brood Bank and Creation of Ornamental Fish Kiosks etc. He also stressed about the initiatives of the Department in imparting training, disbursement of financial support and creation of marketing infrastructure for any kind of ventures associated with fish breeding and seed production. He urged the participants to actively attend the programme and to come forward for creation of Marine Ornamental Fish hatcheries and its trade for utilization in mainland as well as foreign markets.

Dr. K Gopal, Joint Director (Fisheries) and Smt. V. Sheeja, Deputy Director (Fisheries) also spoke during the inaugural session. Dr. Anuraj A and Dr. Ambarish P Gop, Scientist, Vizhinjam Centre of ICAR-CMFRI will take the sessions during the training programme. A total of 25 beneficiaries will be imparted training during this 3 days training programme and the training programme will conclude on 4th July, 2024.