Kochi: To enhance the sustainable utilisation of India’s marine fisheries, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). This agreement, signed by CMFRI Director, Dr. A Gopalakrishnan and INCOIS Director, Dr. T Srinivasa Kumar, aims to foster collaboration on a range of research initiatives, including improved fishing advisories and fisheries management.
Under the MoU, CMFRI and INCOIS will collaborate on joint projects leveraging their expertise in operational oceanography, fishery oceanography, fishing advisories, ecological and environmental impact assessments, remote sensing and GIS applications, biodiversity, fisheries management, geosciences, and outreach and awareness. This partnership will involve sharing resources and personnel for targeted research efforts.
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Dr. A Gopalakrishnan emphasised the significance of this collaboration, noting that it would substantially enhance research capabilities in oceanography and marine fisheries management. “By combining the expertise and resources of both institutions, we can gain deeper insights into marine ecosystems and develop data-driven solutions for sustainable fisheries management. This collaboration is also crucial for securing the livelihoods of coastal communities and ensuring the health of the ecosystem for future generations,” he added.
Improved Fishing Advisories
INCOIS Director Dr. T Srinivasa Kumar highlighted the benefits to the fishing community, saying that the collaboration would refine existing technologies to provide more accurate and effective potential fishing zone advisories. This would enable fishermen to optimise their fishing operations and catches, thereby improving their efficiency.
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The agreement also includes joint exploratory surveys to collect vital geotagged fishery and ecological data, which are essential for understanding fish populations, distribution patterns, and the overall health of the marine ecosystem. Additionally, it facilitates the exchange of datasets between the two institutions for specific research programmes.
Societal Applications
The partnership aims to develop societal applications using satellite remote sensing in fisheries oceanography and marine fisheries. These applications are expected to benefit coastal communities and stakeholders in the fisheries sector.
The MoU also suggests joint efforts toward capacity-building initiatives through training programmes and workshops. These initiatives aim to equip researchers and stakeholders with the latest knowledge and tools for sustainable fisheries management.
