ICAR-CIFT launched a multipurpose solar thermal conversion unit at Chennur, Kadamakudy grama panchayath

ICAR-CIFT, Cochin commissioned a multipurpose solar thermal conversion unit with biomass gasifier heater backup at Chennur, Ernakulam for the benefit of the fisherwomen group. The project was sponsored by the SEED Division, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India and implemented by ICAR-CIFT, Cochin.  A method has been proposed in this project to completely utilize solar energy by converting it into thermal and electrical energy for multiple uses like drying fish, domestic hot water and solar PV power generation.

Samrudhi a fisherwoman group under the care of Korampadam Service & Co-Operative (KSC) Bank Limited, Kothad, Ernakulam has installed a 50 Kg solar-gasifier hybrid dryer as part of multipurpose solar thermal conversion unit for the production of hygienic and quality dry fish. The unit was inaugurated on 30th June 2023 by Shri. K.N. Unnikrishnan, Honorable MLA, Vypin, and the first sale of the dry fish product was launched by Dr George Ninan, Director, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin in the presence of Shri. E. K. Sivan, Chairman, Meat products of India Ltd, KSC Bank office bearers, and Kadamakudy grama panchayath President and ward members and the general public. In the inaugural function, Dr Sajesh V.K. Sr. Scientist, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin delivered the welcome address and Dr Murali S., Scientist, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin & PI of the project, read the project report, and Dr Nikita Gopal, Head, EIS Division, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, offered the felicitations.