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

On May 19, 2023, 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, situated in the Sundarbans of West Bengal.

In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering women in the fishing industry, the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) has extended its generous assistance to 500 dedicated female fishers. Recognizing the indispensable role women play in ensuring the sustainability of fisheries, CIFRI has provided them with essential fishery inputs, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to enhance their fishing activities.

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.

The Chief Guest for the event was Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of the Department of

 and Education, Government of India, and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

During his address as the chief guest, Dr Pathak 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 Pathak acknowledged the significant impact of these initiatives, noting the impressive attendance of over 4,500 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.

Dr B. K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, highlighted the interventions implemented by CIFRI over the past decade. These interventions, including backyard pond culture, canal fisheries, and ornamental fish farming, have been instrumental in supporting the livelihoods of targeted beneficiaries in Gosaba, Hingalgunj, Kochukhali, Amtoli, Gangasagar, Bali Island, Namkhana, Kakdwip, and Kultoli in the Sundarbans region.

The event witnessed the presence of officers and staff members from state departments, ICAR institutes, and Krishna Vigyan Kendra. The successful organization of the program was attributed to the collective efforts of the dedicated 'Team CIFRI,' which includes scientists, staff members, and research scholars, all working under the active guidance of the Director of CIFRI.