Collector urges sustainable fishing practices in Visakhapatnam
District Collector M. N. Harendhira Prasad has called for greater awareness among traditional fishing communities about modern and sustainable fishing practices.
Speaking at a State-level consultation workshop organised by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Visakhapatnam, Mr. Prasad said improving the quality of fisheries, adopting better marketing methods, and promoting environmentally responsible harvesting were vital for the sector’s growth.
The workshop addressed the challenges and opportunities faced by traditional fishermen in Andhra Pradesh and discussed ways to ensure sustainable livelihoods. Fishermen, scientists, and officials from various coastal districts took part in the discussions.
Mr. Prasad urged fishermen to make full use of government welfare schemes and explore alternative livelihood options such as seaweed cultivation and cage farming, which, he said, could boost income and employment in coastal areas.
As a mark of recognition, the Collector felicitated several fishermen as “Blue Warriors” for their contribution to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries.
The event was attended by Dr. Joe K. Kizhakudan, Principal Scientist, CMFRI; P. Lakshmana Rao, Joint Director of Fisheries; Dr. Madhusudhan Rao, Chief Scientist, CIFT; Dr. Meena Niffat and Prasad from FSI; Mahanthi, Deputy Director, MPEDA; and Arjilli Das and Hanumantha Rao from CMFRI and CIFT.