The M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) celebrated World Fisheries Day on November 21, 2024, with an impactful event that resonated with the year’s theme: “Investing in Social Protection to Secure a Blue Transformation in Fisheries.” The celebration brought together over 80 dynamic participants, including fishermen, fisherwomen, freshwater fish producers, scientists, and key stakeholders committed to the future of fisheries.

The day began with a warm welcome from Dr. Suresh, a scientist from MSSRF. In her inaugural address, Dr. Velvizhi, Area Director of Coastal Systems and Fisheries Research at MSSRF, urged participants to focus on the future of fisheries rather than reflecting on past achievements. “We need to invest in the future, not dwell on what’s already done,” she said. She also emphasized the often-overlooked occupational hazards faced by women in different sector particularly in fish vending, and shrimp groping in backwater fishing and called for collective action to address these critical issues. “Highlighting unheard voices is key to creating opportunities for change,” she added.

Guest speakers Dr. Kumaran and Dr. Amba Shankar, Senior Scientists from ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, shared valuable insights. Dr. Kumaran highlighted the critical role of water body preservation in sustaining fish resources and encouraged people to include more fish in their diets. “The key to securing our livelihoods lies in our own hands,” he remarked, promoting self-reliance. Dr. Amba Shankar underscored the nutritional benefits of fish as a protein-rich, easily digestible food and expressed concern over the growing issue of marine pollution. “What we discard on land inevitably finds its way into the sea,” he cautioned.

Village leaders from Poompuhar, Vanagiri, and Madathukuppam added depth to the discussions by sharing real-life challenges faced by their communities. A representative from Poompuhar provided insights into the hardships encountered by local fishermen, ensuring the voices of grassroots stakeholders were heard.

The event featured two dynamic group discussions. In the first session, participants reflected on the contributions of the Fish for All Centre of MSSRF to blue transformation and social protection. Many shared emotional testimonies of how the foundation’s work had positively impacted their lives. Sharmila, a fisherwoman, shared how solar fish dryers transformed the value of dry fish, turning what was once ignored into a premium product now transported by airplane. “What was once seen as worthless is now celebrated,” she said.

The second group discussion was particularly impactful, focusing on the future needs and recommendations from the fishing community. Participants emphasized the urgent need for improved mobile connectivity at sea to enhance safety and communication during fishing operations. Many raised concerns about the difficulties in accessing government schemes, calling for simplified procedures to ensure welfare benefits reach those in need. Freshwater fishers highlighted the need for insurance policies to protect their fish ponds from losses due to natural disasters and other risks. Safety measures for small fishing boats and nets also emerged as a critical issue. Additionally, women from Thangachimadam requested permission to set up stalls in tourist areas like Dhanushkodi and Pamban to showcase and sell their upcycled products made from ghost gear. This innovative approach not only provides them with sustainable livelihood opportunities but also addresses marine pollution by repurposing discarded fishing gear.

To honor the efforts of the fishing community, ten individuals, including fishermen, fisherwomen, and self-help group members, were recognized with encouragement prizes and certificates for their outstanding contributions to social security and fisheries transformation.

The event, skillfully facilitated by Mr. Tamizhazagan and supported by the MSSRF team, concluded with a resounding call for collaboration and innovation to secure a sustainable and inclusive future for fisheries. “Social protection is the anchor for blue transformation,” said Dr. Velvizhi, urging everyone to join hands in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities for a thriving fisheries sector. The celebration reiterated the importance of social protection as a cornerstone for achieving a sustainable blue transformation in fisheries and showcased MSSRF’s continued commitment to empowering fishing communities through innovation, collaboration, and forward-looking solutions.

Together, we can secure a brighter and bluer tomorrow for our fisheries and communities!