ICAR-CIFRI Empowers Women Fishers in Sundarbans through Mahila Matasyajibi Sammelan 2.0

The ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) organized the Mahila Matasyajibi Sammelan (Women Fishers Meet) in collaboration with the Kultali Milantirth Society. The event took place in the picturesque region of Kultali, Sundarbans. CIFRI provided 500 dedicated female fishers with essential inputs like fish seed, fish feed and scientific know-how to enhance their fisheries, empowering them in the industry. The event served as a platform for networking, learning, and building solidarity among women in fisheries, emphasizing their vital role in small scale fisheries. These beneficiaries were selected from 50 villages under 11 GPs of Gosaba and Basanti Community Development Blocks.

On August 17, 2024, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) organized the Mahila Matasyajibi Sammelan (Women Fishers Meet) 2.0 in collaboration with the Kultali Milantirth Society. The success and positive impact of the initial Mahila Matsya Sammelan inspired ICAR-CIFRI to organise the second one at Kultali. As described by Director of the Institute Dr. B. K. Das, “Since 2020, ICAR-CIFRI has adopted 1856 beneficiaries in Kultali, including 54.9% women under SCSP and STC program”.

In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering women in the fisheries sector, the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) has extended its generous assistance to 500 dedicated female fishers.

CIFRI has introduced interventions like backyard pond culture, canal fisheries, and ornamental fish farming in the Sundarbans region over the past decade. These initiatives have supported the livelihoods of targeted beneficiaries in various areas. The interventions have led to increased income and alternative livelihood opportunities for the beneficiaries. As a result, CIFRI plans to support another 2,000 women from vulnerable communities this year to empower them economically across the country.

The Chief Guest for the event was Dr. Joykrushna Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), Indian Council of Agricultural Research.Dr. Pradip Dey , Director, ICAR-ATARI graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.

During his address as the chief guest, Dr Jena expressed concern over the hardships faced by the rural population of the Sundarbans due to frequent natural disasters such as cyclones. He highlighted the commendable efforts undertaken by ICAR-CIFRI to enhance the livelihoods of women fishers in the Sundarbans. Dr. Jena acknowledged the significant impact of these initiatives, noting the impressive attendance of over 3,500 women fishers at the Mahila Matasyajeebi Sammelan.

He further announced that ICAR-CIFRI would be adopting 500 women fishers under the SCSP (Scheduled Caste Sub Plan) and STC (Scheduled Tribe Component) programs.