Workshop on the Application and Demonstration of Drone Technology in Fisheries and Aquaculture was held at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi, Kerala. The event was inaugurated by George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Fisheries and Ministry of Minority Affairs, in the presence of dignitaries, scientists, and stakeholders from the fisheries sector, including fishermen and fisherwomen.

During his inaugural address, Kurian emphasised the significant potential of drone technology in revolutionising the fisheries sector. “Drone technology in the fisheries sector is going to be a game changer,” he declared. The Minister outlined the Government of India’s ambitious plans for sustainable growth in the sector, driven by investments and strategic policies over the past decade. He further announced the development of 100 climate-resilient coastal villages under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). “₹2 crore will be allocated per village to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainable livelihoods,” he said, detailing plans to improve climate resilience through facilities like fish drying yards, processing centers, and seaweed cultivation.

The workshop also focused on the integration of drone technology in aquaculture monitoring, fish transport, and disaster management. Kurian highlighted the importance of drones in enhancing real-time surveillance, especially in times of disaster, and revealed a plan to equip one lakh fishing vessels with transponders for weather alerts and communication. This initiative, worth ₹364 crores, aims to improve the safety and efficiency of the fishing community.

Dr. Grinson George, Director of CMFRI, set the stage for the workshop, followed by Dr. B.K. Behera, Chief Executive of NFDB, who emphasised the importance of leveraging schemes like PMMSY for sustainable development. The event also featured insights from experts like Dr. V.V. Suresh, Head of the Mariculture Division at EyeROV Technologies, who discussed the challenges and opportunities of drone applications in fisheries.

In addition to the drone demonstrations, the event included the distribution of Cadalmin BSF PRO, a sustainable fish feed, and the launch of a brochure on marine microbiome advancements. The session also marked the launch of the Marine Biological Association of India (MBAI) National Symposium, aimed at fostering collaboration among marine science professionals.

The workshop was a milestone in advancing the role of technology in India’s fisheries sector, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for a sustainable future.