ICAR-CIFT Partners with Andaman and Nicobar Administration

The ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), Kochi, has entered into two consultancy agreements with the Department of Fisheries, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, Sri Vijaya Puram, to strengthen the fisheries sector in the Union Territory through the promotion of traditional fish products and standardisation of fishing boat designs.

The Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs) were exchanged between Dr. George Ninan, Director, ICAR-CIFT, and Shri. Nesnas E.A., Assistant Director of Fisheries, Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration, Sri Vijaya Puram on 21 October 2026.

Under this consultancy, ICAR-CIFT will support the GI tagging of traditional fish products [Chilled Andaman Coral Trout (Dollar Fish) and Nicobari Thoharango (smoked and dried)] through nutritional profiling, shelf-life studies, standardised safety protocols, and technical training for local and tribal producers to improve the product value and market access.

ICAR-CIFT will provide 30 standardised fishing boat designs of various sizes and categories, including motorised and mechanised boats, along with revised drawings, technical specifications and cost estimates. The designs will incorporate suitable materials such as wood, FRP, wood with FRP coating and steel, facilitating boat construction by eligible beneficiaries under the Union Territory Plan.

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the fisheries sector in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, improving livelihood opportunities for local and tribal communities, and promoting sustainable and technology-driven fisheries development.