Distribution of Community Fish Smoking (COFISKI) Units by ICAR-CIFT to Women Fishers of Meghalaya under Coal India Limited CSR Scheme

The distribution ceremony of 26 units of COFISKI (Community Fish Smoking Units) developed as part of rural technology at ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology was held at Amlrem BDO, West Jaintia Hills District, Meghalaya on 4th December, 2018. The programme organized by ICAR-CIFT in collaboration with DRDA, Jowai, West Jaintia Hills District, Meghalaya started with a visit to the site by Chief Guest Honourable Minister of Education Shri L. Rymbui, Government of Meghalaya. Shri Rymbui enquired about methods of preparation of smoke cured fish and intricate details therein. Dr. M.M. Prasad, PI of the project and Head, MFB Division, ICAR-CIFT explained to the Minister how the rural technology was developed by ICAR-CIFT taking into consideration all the needs for easy maintenance, rigors of regular use and ergonomics of the women fishers.  The programme started with welcome address by Shri D.M. Wallang, MCS, PD DRDA, West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. In his address Shri Wallang said that he witnessed the systematic development of fishers of Amlarem Block and that could happen due to continuous support of ICAR-CIFT in the form, training cum demonstration programmes, awareness campaign on hygiene, skill development programmes etc.  Presiding over the function, Shri Garod L.S.N. Dykes, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Jowai, West Jaintia Hills lauded the efforts made by the scientists and staff of ICAR-CIFT for the development of harvest and post harvest fisheries in his district. In his address the Chief Guest of the function Shri Rymbui said that malnutrition is scourge in the country especially in remote areas and any intervention in the form of better quality food such as fish and fishery products with longer shelf life will better price and also help in socio-economic development of the hinterland residents. He welcomed and appreciated the technologies developed by ICAR-CIF and requested the beneficiaries to make best use of the COFISKI units given by ICAR-CIFT. Dr. Prasad while addressing the beneficiaries said that the COFISKI units are given under CSR Scheme of Coal India Limited for the betterment of women fishers who are economically under-privileged and belonging to Sc/ST categories.  He said fishers of West Jaintia Hills District especially of Amlarem are fortunate enough to get first lot of 26 Units. He said all the women fishers should emulate Mrs. Alma who become epitome of success in implementing technologies given by ICAR-CIFT. Headman of the Umladhkur and other state department officials also spoke on the occasion. The programme came to an end with vote of thanks from Mrs. J.U. Kharpuri, MCS BDO Amlarem C & RD Block, West Jaintia Hills District. 

Beneficiaries with dignitaries