National Conference on Seaweed Cultivation to be Attended by Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala

Kutch: The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, is set to attend the National Conference on Promotion of Seaweed Cultivation scheduled for January 27, 2024, at Koteshwar (Kori Creek) in Kutch, Gujarat. The conference aims to strengthen and develop the seaweed sector, and it is organized by the Department of Fisheries.

During the event, Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala will engage with beneficiaries, interact with participants, and distribute assets to identified beneficiaries. The focus of the conference is to bring together approximately 300 participants, including policymakers, central and state fisheries officials, researchers, seaweed farmers, and representatives from local gram panchayats, SHGs, FFPOs/Cs. This gathering will facilitate the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and best practices in seaweed cultivation.

Key highlights of the National Conference:

• Discussion on on-field experiences and insights by scientists from ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) & CSIR-Central Salt Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI).
• Presentation by entrepreneur Mr. Hari S Thivakar from The Seaweed Company, Lakshadweep.
• Exhibition showcasing the contributions of participating entrepreneurs and research organizations.

The conference aims to address gaps and devise strategies to mitigate value chain issues in seaweed cultivation. These include identifying suitable cultivable locations, utilizing appropriate cultivation technologies, enhancing local availability of quality seeds, risk mitigation through species diversification, dissemination of technical know-how, strengthening market linkages, formulating water leasing policies, understanding new policy frameworks, and increasing access to PMMSY benefits for potential beneficiaries.

Seaweed, a marine-algae traditionally grown worldwide for consumption in food and medicines, is gaining importance as a solution for climate change mitigation. Rich in minerals, iodine, and vitamins, seaweed can be cultivated without the need for land and fertilizers, making it an environmentally friendly and nutritious option. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Department of Fisheries is committed to fostering growth and sustainability in the seaweed sector, with a vision to achieve an impressive production of 11.2 lakh tonnes. The PMMSY scheme includes substantial investments, totaling Rs. 640 crore for the fiscal years 2020-2025, to propel the seaweed industry forward.

The National Conference on Seaweed Cultivation serves as a crucial platform for collaboration and partnerships among entrepreneurs, processors, and farmers, contributing to the development of this nascent sector in India.