Fishermen Training Boost in Andaman & Lakshadweep Tuna Export

Why These Islands Matter for Tuna Fishing

These island groups sit right in the middle of rich tuna grounds. The fish caught here can fetch top prices abroad if handled the right way from boat to buyer. Yet many local fishers still miss out on modern methods that keep the catch fresh and market-ready. The review stressed that better training can change this picture fast.

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, who heads the fisheries department at the Centre, led the discussion. He pointed out that teamwork between different offices is the only way to get real results on the ground. When everyone pulls in the same direction, fishermen get the exact help they need without any overlap or gap.

Hands-On Learning for Everyday Gains

Two organisations, the Fishery Survey of India and the Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical and Engineering Training, shared what they have been doing lately. They run short courses, live demos on boats, and workshops that show fishers how to use new gear. The idea is simple: teach a man to handle tuna the export way and he feeds his family for years.

Officers talked about sending a few eager learners abroad. There they can pick up tricks for turning ordinary tuna into sashimi-grade slices that Japanese buyers love. Keeping the cold chain unbroken from sea to shelf is another big lesson. Every degree above zero can mean lost money, so the training covers chillers, ice packs, and quick transport.

Reducing Waste, Raising Income

Right now a lot of good fish goes bad before it reaches the market. Better post-harvest care can cut that waste by half. That means more fish on the table at home and more rupees in the pocket from sales overseas. The meeting heard that even small upgrades in handling can open doors to premium markets.

Local administrations from both island groups joined the call. They shared ground realities like boat size, ice availability, and landing points. Senior people from the National Fisheries Development Board, marine products export authority, and rural banking bodies also chipped in with ideas. Everyone agreed that money for gear and training must reach the right hands without delay.

Building a Stronger Support Network

The Fishery Survey of India maps fish stocks and tells fishers where the big schools swim. Pair that with hands-on navigation and engine courses from the training institute and you have a complete package. Add export rules taught by trade experts and the fisherman becomes a businessman too.

Dr. Likhi asked both bodies to plan the next round of camps together. One team could scout fishing zones while the other runs classes on the same trip. This saves time and fuel for everyone. He also pushed for regular follow-up visits to see if new skills are sticking.

Looking Ahead to Bigger Exports

India already sends tuna to many countries, but the share from these islands remains small. With skilled hands and proper cold storage, that can change. Buyers pay extra for fish that looks and smells fresh days after the catch. Training in hygiene, quick bleeding, and gutting at sea makes that possible.

Fishers who master these steps often form groups to pool ice and transport. Banks present at the meeting promised easier loans for shared chill rooms and insulated boxes. One official even suggested tying up with airlines that fly fresh cargo out of Port Blair and Agatti.

The review wrapped up with a clear roadmap. More camps will roll out before the next tuna season. A short list of star performers will get tickets for overseas workshops. Digital record-keeping will track who learned what and how their catch value grew.

All this adds up to stronger livelihoods and a louder voice for India in the global tuna trade. The islands have the fish; now they will have the know-how too.