Union Secretary Reviews Drone Technology for Fisheries Management at ICAR-CIFRI

Kolkata: Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India, visited the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) today to review the institute’s advancements in drone applications for fisheries management. The event saw the participation of scientists, state fisheries officials, fishermen, and fisherwomen, with key stakeholders from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, NAFED, NCDC, and fisheries cooperatives joining virtually.

During the demonstration of drone technology, Dr. Likhi interacted with fish farmers and fishers, listening to their success stories and challenges. He emphasized how modern technology, like drones, can transform fisheries operations by improving efficiency, productivity, and the transportation of fresh fish. “This pilot project undertaken by ICAR-CIFRI is opening new horizons in the fisheries sector, providing a fast and less labor-intensive alternative for transporting fresh fish while reducing stress on the fish,” he stated.

Dr. Likhi highlighted that the collaboration between ICAR-CIFRI and private partners on drone-based fish transportation could revolutionize the supply chain by ensuring fresher, more hygienic fish reaches consumers. The Secretary also discussed the recently launched Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samridhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a Rs 6000 crore initiative approved in February 2024. The scheme aims to formalize the unorganized fisheries sector, create a National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP), and improve access to institutional credit, insurance, and value-chain efficiencies for fish farmers and vendors.

At the review meeting, Dr. B. K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, presented the institute’s achievements in drone technology. Several drone applications were demonstrated, including sprayer drones, feed broadcast drones, and cargo delivery drones. More than 100 fishermen and fisherwomen attended the demonstrations, which showcased the potential of drones to reduce transportation times and minimize fish stress.

Dr. Likhi urged ICAR-CIFRI to ensure these drone-based applications are accessible to fish farmers across the country, requesting the Fisheries Department to document the demonstrations to raise awareness nationwide. He noted that the pilot project aims to develop a drone with a 100 kg payload capacity, capable of transporting live fish up to 10 km, marking a significant step forward for the fisheries industry.

The introduction of drone technology is expected to address critical challenges in the Indian fisheries sector, including improving the transport of fresh fish from remote locations and reducing losses caused by long-distance transportation delays. By embracing modern technology, the fisheries industry aims to enhance sustainability and productivity, ultimately benefiting fish farmers and consumers alike.