23 September 2026, Kochi
A two-day National Fisherwomen Conclave on ‘Empowering Women in India’s Blue Economy: Recognition, Inclusion and Partnering’ was conducted at the ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi, with a focus on strengthening the recognition, inclusion and participation of women in India’s fisheries sector.
The conclave was organised by the Society of Fisheries Technologists (India) (SOFTI) in association with ICAR-CIFT, Kochi. The programme explored pathways to improve fisherwomen’s access to technology, finance, institutional support and market opportunities. It also included hands-on sessions on digital and financial literacy, occupational health and safety, climate education and disaster preparedness.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr B. Meenakumari, Former Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), ICAR, New Delhi, and Chief Guest. In her address, Dr Meenakumari emphasised the pivotal role of women in the fisheries and aquaculture sector and recognised their valuable contributions to its growth and development. “Women are the backbone of the fisheries and aquaculture sector, contributing significantly across the value chain, particularly in processing, value addition and marketing.
However, their work remains largely undervalued and underrepresented. Empowering fisherwomen requires greater access to formal recognition, credit, technology, training, social security and decision-making platforms. Women should be recognised not merely as beneficiaries, but as entrepreneurs, innovators and climate ambassadors who can play a key role in building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable blue economy. I encourage more women to come forward and make use of the opportunities offered through government initiatives and fisheries programmes,” she said.
Dr Grinson George, Director, ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
Dr George Ninan, Director, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology and President, SOFTI, presided over the programme.
The programme was held in the context of the United Nations’ declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, which provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women to agrifood systems and promote greater investment in their livelihoods, leadership and participation.
The conclave brought together 60 women participants from Kerala, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, representing diverse fisheries-related occupations, including gleaning, fish processing, value addition, seaweed farming, trout farming, dry fish vending, processing and marketing, and fish culture.
(Source: ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi)
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