From Seafood to Seedlings: ICAR-CMFRI Gives Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 a Green Twist

24 September 2026, Kochi

ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi marked Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 with an innovative initiative that brought together waste reuse, greenery, women’s empowerment and traditional coastal livelihoods.

As part of the campaign, the Lakshadweep Seafood Snack Bar at ICAR-CMFRI showcased traditional seafood products with the participation of women fisherfolk from Lakshadweep. The initiative provided a platform to promote their traditional food products while highlighting the contribution of women-led community enterprises to sustainable coastal livelihoods.

Adding a green dimension to the activity, the paper cups used at the snack bar were repurposed as planting pots. Instead of being discarded as waste, the cups were filled with potting mixture and vegetable seeds, transforming them into simple containers for growing plants.

The initiative demonstrated how practical and easily replicable ideas can turn everyday waste into useful resources. By integrating cleanliness, waste reuse, greenery, women’s livelihoods and community participation, ICAR-CMFRI highlighted the broader message of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 through a simple yet meaningful action.

(Source: ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi)