FLASH NEWS
the 4th Stakeholders Meeting of the Small Pelagic Purse Seine Fisheries – Karnataka State Fishery Improvement Program (FIP), combined with the official launch of the Karnataka State FIP website, was successfully held on 8 March 2025 at Hotel AJ Grand Elite, Mangalore. Hosted by Yashaswi Fish Meal and Oil Company, the event gathered representatives from the fishing industry, government departments, research institutions, and fishmeal companies, reflecting the collective commitment toward sustainable fisheries in Karnataka. The evening began with formal registration followed by a welcome address from International Aquaculture Consultant Mr. Ramesh M. R., who highlighted the importance of cooperation and knowledge-sharing in strengthening sustainable fishing systems. His message set a constructive tone for the meeting, emphasizing shared responsibilities in advancing the goals of the FIP.
The program progressed with an inspiring introductory speech by Mr. Udaya Kumar Salian, Managing Director of Yashaswi Fish Meal and Oil Company and FIP Lead, who outlined the journey and milestones of the Small Pelagic Purse Seine Fisheries – Karnataka State FIP. He reflected on how coordinated efforts between fishermen, industry stakeholders, and policymakers have shaped the program into a model for sustainable and responsible fisheries. This was followed by the official launch of the Karnataka State FIP website by Shri Harish Kumar, Additional Director of Fisheries, Government of Karnataka. The new website, designed as a centralized digital platform, provides access to updated information on fishery assessments, stock status, sustainability initiatives, and policy interventions. Shri Harish Kumar emphasized the government’s dedication to strengthening monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) systems and enhancing transparency to curb illegal and unregulated fishing practices. His address underscored the importance of digital modernization in fisheries governance and the role of the new website in facilitating stakeholder engagement.
Further enriching the event were the presidential remarks by Shri Pramod Madhwaraj, former Minister for Fisheries, who shared valuable policy perspectives on supporting sustainable fisheries and improving community welfare through government schemes, subsidies, and youth-focused programs. This was complemented by an insightful guest address from Dr. H. N. Anjanayappa, Professor and Dean, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, who emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and capacity-building in advancing India’s fisheries sector. A key component of the meeting was the formal acceptance of FIP membership requests from M/s Raj Fishmeal and M/s Akash Fishmeal, received by Mr. Udaya Kumar Salian and Dr. Nim. This development marked a meaningful expansion of stakeholder participation in the FIP, reinforcing the sector’s commitment to responsible fishing practices and collaborative management. Overall, the meeting served as a significant milestone in strengthening partnerships, improving access to information, and ensuring the continued progress of sustainable fisheries in Karnataka.