The state government has sought support of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) to implement the Aquarian Reforms Policy in the state. At a meeting with the CMFRI director and heads of the divisions, Finance Minister T M Thomas Isaac on Tuesday said the government would consider inputs from the scientific community on the matter.
“The government will consider proposals submitted by the CMFRI with regard to technology, fishing methods, regulations and ownership rights of the fisherfolk in implementing Aquarian Reforms in the state,” he said, adding, “Sustainable management practices are required to save the fisheries sector. The government wants to formulate the policy by laying emphasis on the practical aspects,” he said. He lauded the CMFRI for its efforts to prepare the draft national mariculture policy.
CMFRI director Dr A Gopalakrishnan apprised Isaac of the various research activities of the institute. Dr R Narayanakumar, Dr P Vijayagopal, Dr T V Satyanandan, Dr K K Joshi, Dr P U Zechariah, and Dr Boby Ignatius also attended the meeting.