Port Blair, Jan 29: A training programme on skill development through value added fishery products was organized by ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair conducted during 25th – 29th January, 2021 with funding from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, Port Blair. The programme was organized in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra, South Andaman under the Chairmanship of Dr. B. A. Jerard, Director, ICAR-CIARI, in which 14 participants from different villages of South Andaman have participated. Hands-on training was given to the participants on development of value added fishery products from the low value fishes. During the programme, the trainees were also given exposure to a fish processing facility at Dollygunj and hands on training at ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair. The developed quality fish pickle was shared among the trainees during the valedictory session.
During the valedictory session, Ms. Deepitha R.P., Course Director briefed about the various activities carried out during the training programme. Dr. Y. Ramakrishna, Head Incharge, KVK, Port Blair briefed about the requirement of FSSAI standards for marketing of the value added fishery products. The trainees gave positive feedback on the outcome of the training programme. Dr. B. A Jerard, Director, ICAR-CIARI in his presidential address, highlighted the importance and scope of value addition of fishery resources in the Islands and stressed upon the branding of Andaman fishery products. The chief guest of the valedictory programme, Mr. R.V Ramakrishna, GM, NABARD, Port Blair lauded the efforts of ICAR-CIARI in imparting training on value addition of fishery products. He urged the participants to reap the maximum benefit by utilizing the different schemes of NABARD and other financial institutions to develop the entrepreneurship in the Islands.