FLASH NEWS
On 05 July 2025, the Regional Workshop on Developments in Deep-Sea Resource Exploration and Endangered, Threatened, Protected (ETP) Species Conservation was held at Hotel A J Grand Elite, Mangaluru. Jointly organized by ICAR–CMFRI Mangalore Regional Centre, the Department of Fisheries, Government of Karnataka, and the Small Pelagic Purse Seine Fisheries – Karnataka State FIP, the workshop brought together scientists, policymakers, fisheries officials, and industry stakeholders. The goal was to strengthen awareness on ETP species conservation, review progress in deep-sea resource exploration, and introduce practical guidelines such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safe handling and release of protected species.
The event was inaugurated by distinguished dignitaries including Shri Dinesh Kumar Kaller, Director of the Department of Fisheries; Dr. Grinson George, Director of ICAR–CMFRI; Dr. Pravin Puthran, ADG (M.Fy.), ICAR; and Shri Udaya Kumar Salian, Lead of the Karnataka State FIP. Their presence—along with representatives from MPEDA, EIA, CIFT, the College of Fisheries Mangalore, coastal police, forest department, and fishermen’s associations—reinforced the strong inter-institutional commitment towards responsible fisheries management. Throughout the sessions, experts highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable marine species, adopting science-based fishing practices, and involving coastal communities in long-term conservation strategies.
A key highlight of the workshop was the ceremonial release of the bilingual ETP Species Identification Poster, developed by ICAR–CMFRI in collaboration with fisheries experts and the Karnataka State FIP. Featuring high-resolution images of whale sharks, sawfish, wedgefish, manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and other protected species, the poster is designed for easy recognition and onboard use. Copies of the laminated and photo-framed posters were handed over to fisheries association leaders to display in their offices, with broader distribution planned across landing centers and fishing vessels. This initiative marks a significant step forward in grassroots awareness, operational compliance, and strengthening Karnataka’s commitment to sustainable fisheries and marine biodiversity conservation.