Open sun drying is the traditional method employed by fisherfolks in most parts of the country to dry fish and other marine products. However, often sun-dried products were poor quality with insects, pests, and microorganisms and it is highly depending on prevailing weather conditions. To overcome these limitations, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin has developed low cost, energy efficient and eco-friendly solar dryers with LPG, biomass or electricity backup heat source for continuous and hygienic drying of fish even duringoff-sunshine hours. ICAR-CIFT solar hybrid fish dryers are gaining attention among the young entrepreneurs, fisherfolks and women self-help groups (SHG) involved in the dry fish business as a viable alternative.

A small fisherfolk women group led by Smt.Valsa Vasu andSmt.Anitha Sajeev,Nayarambalam CDS,Ernakulam, has installed a 20 Kg solar-electrical hybrid dryer for the production of hygienic and quality dry fish.The dryer was inaugurated on 25^th November 2020 bySmt. Savitha Raghu (Chairperson, Nayarambalam CDS) in the presence of Dr. Murali S (Scientist, ICAR-CIFT, Cochin), and other officials from ICAR-CIFT, Cochin. Members from Nayarambalam Grama Panchayat and general public  attended the function.