Matsya Shakthi project aims to transform coastal minority communities Union minister of state for fisheries, animal husbandry & dairying and minority affairs George Kurian inaugurated a training-cum-awareness programme under the Matsya Shakthi project in Kochi on Wednesday. The initiative, aimed at empowering coastal minority communities, focuses on skill development, leadership training, and fisheries-based livelihood technologies. Kurian highlighted the project’s role in fostering inclusive growth and sustainable livelihoods for fisher communities. The programme is implemented through the Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme of India’s ministry of minority affairs. Kurian stated that the project targets 690 beneficiaries, making it one of the largest capacity-building efforts for minority fisher communities in Thiruvananthapuram. During the inauguration, he presented certificates to participants who completed Phase I of the training. Under the project, 90 participants are undergoing a 40-day course to become fishery hatchery production workers. The training covers topics such as broodstock management, artificial breeding, larval rearing, feed and water quality management, hatchery hygiene, and biosecurity. Another 180 beneficiaries are being trained in cage culture fish farming, with a focus on sustainable mariculture practices. In addition, 420 women will receive exclusive leadership development training. The programme includes modules on communication skills, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, awareness of government schemes, and collective action. Kurian emphasized the importance of empowering women to emerge as entrepreneurs and community leaders.#thiruvananthapuram #matsya_shakthi_project #george_kurian #pradhan_mantri_vikas #kochi
