
CMFRI, CIFT to study deep sea resource utilization in Indian EEZ
Kochi: Two leading Kochi-headquartered fisheries institutions, CMFRI and CIFT, are collaborating on a pilot study to investigate deep-sea resource utilization within India's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
National fisheries development board (NFDB) is funding the project under
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
(PMMSY). Research involves fisherfolk and commercial trawlers to assess the viability of extensive exploitation of
mesopelagic resources
found at depths between 200-1000 metres. The study is particularly relevant due to these resources' substantial industrial applications in fishmeal, nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds."With global concerns over overfishing of commercially important species used for fishmeal production, this initiative focuses on exploring alternative and sustainable sources, reducing dependency on traditional fish stocks," said CMFRI director Grinson George.
Operation Sindoor
'Decided to strike where it would hurt': Air Marshal on Op Sindoor
Op Sindoor: IC-814 hijackers, Pulwama plotters among over 100 terrorists killed
'Pak Army lost 35 to 40 personnel': Takeaways from armed forces' briefing on Op Sindoor
Researchers believe that utilizing mesopelagic species could reduce pressure on coastal and pelagic fisheries, promoting balanced marine resource management. The study encompasses assessment of harvestable potential, sustainable harvesting techniques, value-added applications and commercial exploitation feasibility whilst maintaining ecological balance."A rough estimate suggests that around two million tonnes of mesopelagic resources are available in Indian waters," George said. "Collaborative efforts with CIFT will ensure development of efficient harvesting technologies and post-harvest processing methods," he said, adding that the initiative marks a significant step in India's marine fisheries for a Viksit Bharat.CIFT director George Ninan said these resources have industrial significance, noting their importance in various countries, including Oman. "Completion of this yearlong pilot study will yield crucial insights to determine the best viable methods to utilize these resources," he added. CMFRI principal scientist Sujitha Thomas is the principal investigator and CIFT's Ramesan MP is the lead investigator of the project.
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NDTV
3 hours ago
- NDTV
PM Modi To Begin 3-Nation Tour Today, 1st Foreign Visit Since Op Sindoor
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Indian Express
4 hours ago
- Indian Express
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Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
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