Hon’ble Union Minister of State Shri. Ram Nath Thakur visits ICAR-CMFRI
Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Ram Nath Thakur visited ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), Kochi on 5th January 2025. Dr. Grinson George, Director, ICAR–CMFRI, apprised him of the Institute’s key activities, ongoing research programmes, and technological innovations.
He also addressed the gathering and interacted with scientists, appreciating CMFRI’s contributions towards sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, and farmer-centric technologies. During his interaction, Hon’ble Minister stated that scientists should ensure that research outcomes translate into tangible benefits for farmers in rural areas. He emphasized that scientific research gains true relevance only when it contributes directly to the upliftment of farmers’ livelihoods.
He released ICAR-CMFRI’s innovative product— Cadalmin™ BSF Green Organic Compost using a zero-waste bioconversion technology from black soldier fly larvae. A brochure on Technology for Designer Pearl Production, and products of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology were also released during the function.
Hon’ble MoS also reviewed the activities of the Coconut Development Board. Horticulture Commissioner Prabhat Kumar, ICAR-CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George, and ICAR-CIFT Director among others were present.
Minister Shri Ram Nath Thakur also visited Kerala’s Pokkali fields and interacted with farmers, hearing their demands and challenges firsthand. He highlighted the need for science-driven evaluation to unlock the full potential of Pokkali farming while protecting its fragile ecosystem. Minister’s field visit was coordinated by the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of the ICAR- CMFRI. Dr Grinson George, Director of ICAR-CMFRI and Dr Shinoj Subramanian, Head of Ernakulam KVK accompanied the Minister.
