ICAR-CIFT Partners with KIED for Technology Support to MSMEs

ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), Kochi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kerala Institute for Entrepreneurship Development (KIED), Ernakulam, to support the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the Government of India’s RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) Scheme. The MoU was exchanged during the National Workshop on “Natural Refrigerant-based Systems for Seafood Industry” held on 3^rd July 2026, in the presence of Shri. V. E. Abdul Gafoor, Hon’ble Minister for Fisheries, Government of Kerala.

Under this collaboration, ICAR-CIFT will extend technical expertise and support to MSMEs in the fisheries and seafood processing sector through a range of services, including capacity building and advisory assistance. KIED, as the implementing agency, will facilitate the outreach and coordination of these services while also supporting the overall implementation of the initiative under the RAMP Scheme. Under the scheme, KIED can provide financial support of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh towards the technology fee for entrepreneurs and incubatees availing technology support from ICAR-CIFT, thereby enabling enterprises to enhance their capabilities and adopt improved technologies. The scientific team from ICAR-CIFT includes Dr. C.O. Mohan, Dr. Remya S., Dr. Parvathy U., and Mr. Sreejith S.

This partnership is expected to strengthen the MSME ecosystem by bridging the gap between research and industry, improving productivity, quality, and innovation in the seafood sector. It also marks a significant step towards promoting technology-driven entrepreneurship in Kerala.