Government of India sets Rs 640 Crore for Seaweed Cultivation

Seaweeds are the macro algae growing in marine and shallow coastal waters. Recently, they have emerged as a new source of food, energy, chemicals and medicines. They are often termed as the ‘Medical Food of the 21^st Century’ due to their use in treatment of goitre, cancer, bone-replacement therapy and cardiovascular surgeries.

In India, there are around 46 seaweed-based industries that are facing problems due to short supply of raw materials. These are used in the preparation of agar, agarose and carrageenan.

Scope of Seaweed cultivation in India –

Rich seaweed beds around Mumbai, Ratnagiri, Goa, Karwar, Varkala, Vizhinjam and Pulicat in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh; and Chilika in Odisha, provides a huge scope for the seaweed cultivation in India.

Seaweed cultivation will go a long way in supporting lives of coastal fisher-families, especially fisher-women, farmers and entrepreneurs. Keeping these things in mind, the government has setup a fund of around INR 640 crore for boosting seaweed cultivation in the country.

Seaweed species and their uses –

Red Seaweeds: Gelidiella acerosa, Gracilaria edulis and G. dura are used for manufacturing  Agar, Kappaphycus alvarezii used in manufacturing Carrageenan

Brown Seaweeds: Sargassum wightii and Turbinaria conoides are used for manufacturing of Alginates

Seed stock of seaweeds is collected from south-eastern coast of Tamil Nadu.

Process and Locations for implementation of the project –

1. In shallow coastal waters of maritime states
2. Technological Partners - CSIR-Central Salt Marine and Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI), Gujarat and Mandapam Regional Centre, Tamil Nadu
3. Implementing Agency – Department of Fisheries in coastal states/UTs
4. Financial Assistance by National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)

Conclusion –

The Government of India is trying to promote seaweed cultivation in such a way that, it enhances the income of fishers in the coastal areas. Through seaweed cultivation, the industry dependent on it as a source of raw material will get a boost, which in turn will help in generating employment in the country. Thus, Seaweed cultivation is a win-win condition for all.