New Delhi: Union Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, conducted a comprehensive review of the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) {ICAR-CIFT} operations in Kochi, Kerala on September 19, 2025. The review meeting, held in hybrid mode, included senior officers from various States and Union Territories, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), fisheries startups, seafood exporters, and other key stakeholders in the fisheries sector.
Modernizing Fish Processing and Value Addition
Dr. Likhi emphasized the urgent need to bridge existing gaps in fish processing and value addition through the adoption of modern technologies. He urged ICAR-CIFT along with all stakeholders to formulate a forward-looking roadmap to enhance post-harvest fisheries management and to strengthen the fisheries value chain comprehensively.
Presentation on Fish Tech Developments
Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (Inland Fisheries), Department of Fisheries, delivered an insightful presentation titled “Fish Tech for Post-Harvest Management and Value Addition.” He stressed the importance of diversifying fish products and implementing innovative value addition techniques to unlock new market opportunities and drive sector growth. Shri Mehra highlighted the pivotal role of cutting-edge research and development from ICAR institutions in reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing fisher incomes, thereby building a more resilient and competitive fisheries value chain.
Inspection of Kochi Fishing Harbour and Stakeholder Engagement
On September 20, 2025, Dr. Likhi also visited the Kochi Fishing Harbour at Thoppumpady to review ongoing development projects. During the visit, he interacted with fishermen who detailed major species landed, such as tuna, shrimp, and squid, and discussed operational challenges including transponder usage on vessels. The Union Secretary urged port authority officials to expedite the completion of the Fishing Harbour modernization project sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to enhance infrastructure and services.
Background on Kochi Port Modernization
The Department of Fisheries, in March 2022, approved the Cochin Port Trust’s modernization and up-gradation proposal for the Cochin Fishing Harbour at Thoppumpady, Kerala. The project carries a total investment of ₹169.17 crore, with ₹100 crore provided as central financial assistance under PMMSY, in collaboration with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways through the Sagarmala initiative. This convergence aims to boost the fisheries infrastructure and operational capabilities at Kochi.
Conclusion
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi’s review underscores the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the fisheries sector by integrating modern technology and infrastructure improvements. The successful implementation of value addition technologies and infrastructure projects like the Kochi Harbour modernization will significantly improve fish processing efficiency, market access, and economic outcomes for fisher communities.
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Source: PIB
