New Delhi. The Government of India has taken a major step towards strengthening the blue economy by declaring the Mandapam Regional Centre of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) as a Centre of Excellence for Seaweed Cultivation. This initiative marks a significant step towards advancing India’s seaweed farming capabilities and positioning the country as a global leader in the seaweed industry.
The Centre of Excellence will serve as a national hub for innovation and development in seaweed cultivation, focusing on refining farming techniques, establishing a seed bank, and ensuring sustainable practices.
It aims to enhance seaweed cultivation by improving farming efficiency, controlling diseases, and adapting to environmental changes, which will standardize and modernize cultivation practices for higher productivity and better-quality yields. A dedicated seed bank will be established to maintain the genetic diversity of indigenous seaweed species and provide a consistent supply of high-quality seedlings, promoting sustainable expansion in this sector.
Additionally, the Centre will conduct environmental impact assessments to promote sustainable farming practices that safeguard marine ecosystems while maximizing production. It will also focus on training and capacity building, offering specialized programs for farmers, entrepreneurs, and government officials in seaweed cultivation, post-harvest management, and allied industries, thereby empowering local communities and fostering sectoral growth. To further advance seaweed cultivation, the Centre will collaborate with global institutions and experts, facilitating knowledge exchange and joint research to explore new applications of seaweed in industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels.
Hon’ble Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Ministry of Panchayati Raj Shri Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh has unveiled Notifications for creating Centre of Excellence for Seaweed at Mandapam, Tamil Nadu, during 4th Anniversary of PMMSY celebrated on 11th September 2024 at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan New Delhi. The declaration of the Mandapam Regional Centre as a Centre of Excellence aligns with the Government of India’s vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive growth. By enhancing the seaweed industry, this initiative will boost equitable economic development, create new employment opportunities in coastal regions, and strengthen India’s position in the global seaweed market.
It represents a strategic step towards a resilient and prosperous future for India’s coastal communities, contributing to the overall growth of the blue economy and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to achieving the goals set under Viksit Bharat 2047. As the Centre begins its work, it is expected to drive innovation, sustainability, and growth in the fisheries sector, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for coastal livelihoods. The project for establishment of Multi-Purpose Seaweed Park at Tamil Nadu was approved under PMMSY with the total investment of Rs 127.7 crore in Dec., 2022. Its Foundation Stone was laid by Hon’ble Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Shri Parshotam Rupala) on 02 SEP 2023 at Valamavur, Thondi, Ramnathapuram, Tamil Nadu.
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