Sri Vijaya Puram, March 13: As directed by Prof. Balaji Ramakrishnan, Director, NIOT, a “Training Cum Orientation Program on Seaweed Cultivation” was organized jointly with the Fisheries Department, A&N Administration at NIOT-ACOSTI, Sri Vijaya Puram on 13.03.2025. A total of 25 SHG members and officials from ANIIDCO & the Rural Development Department participated.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Anbu Rajan Lawrence, Scientist-E, NIOT-ACOSTI, followed by a brief talk on seaweed promotion and its potential in the A&N Islands by Ms. Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, DANICS, Director of Fisheries Department, A&N Administration.

The meeting was attended by Ms. Gurjeet Kaur, Block Development Officer, Directorate of RD, A&N Islands, and Dr. K. Gopal, Joint Director of Fisheries, A&N Administration, along with other officials.

NIOT scientists presented about the cultivation techniques, and prospects of seaweed farming in A&N Islands, with special focus on Gracilaria edulis. Participants also visited the NIOT-ACOSTI lab and received hands-on training about seaweed cultivation at Chidiyatappu. The event concluded with a vote of thanks.