ICAR-CMFRI Honours Outstanding Women Entrepreneurs in Fisheries on International Women’s Day
The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 across its headquarters and regional centres, highlighting the achievements of women in fisheries, promoting women-led livelihood initiatives, and recognising their contributions to coastal communities and the blue economy.
A highlight of the programme at the Headquarters in Kochi was the felicitation of two successful fisheries entrepreneurs, Sheeja Cylvi and K. S. Remadevi, with the Outstanding Fisheries Entrepreneur Award. Both entrepreneurs are beneficiaries of CMFRI’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Hub initiative that supports coastal communities through training, technical guidance and entrepreneurship development.
Sheeja Cylvi, from St. Sebastian Island in Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam, has built a successful enterprise in mussel and oyster farming with technical support from CMFRI. Starting as a small-scale initiative, her aquaculture activity has grown into a dependable source of income, demonstrating the economic potential of community-based mariculture.
Similarly, Remadevi from Nayarambalam in Ernakulam district has developed a thriving ornamental fish farming enterprise. With guidance from CMFRI’s STI Hub project, she expanded her hobby into a commercial venture and now supplies ornamental fish to Kerala Aqua Ventures International Limited while also marketing fish directly from her farm.
The event was inaugurated by noted entrepreneur Sheela Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Managing Director of V-Star Creations, who attended as the chief guest. In her address, she emphasised that financial independence is a key pillar of women’s empowerment and encouraged women to recognise their potential and leadership abilities.
To encourage creativity and participation among members of the institute, competitions were organised as part of the celebrations. A drawing competition for children of employees was held under the theme “Equality begins at home” in three age categories, while a short story writing competition for staff members and scholars was conducted on the theme “Woman who inspires me.”
Vizhinjam Regional Centre
The Vizhinjam Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI celebrated International Women’s Day with programmes focusing on empowering coastal women through innovative livelihood initiatives.
The event was attended by Shri. George Kurian, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Fisheries. He interacted with women trainees and members of the Seagems Mahila Sauhridam self-help group and appreciated ICAR-CMFRI’s efforts to support fisherwomen through skill development and entrepreneurship.
During the programme, members of the women’s self-help group involved in otolith-based jewellery making were felicitated. This unique initiative transforms fish otoliths—commonly used by researchers for fish age determination—into eco-friendly jewellery such as earrings and pendants.
Visakhapatnam Regional Centre
The Visakhapatnam Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI organised a series of activities highlighting the role of women in sustainable fisheries and livelihood development. A brainstorming session was held with women beneficiaries trained in seaweed culture techniques by the centre. The session was attended by B. Rajasekhar, who interacted with the participants and appreciated the initiative.
Following the training programmes conducted by the centre, the women beneficiaries formed a self-help group and have been successfully undertaking seaweed farming in Mangamaripeta village of Visakhapatnam, creating additional livelihood opportunities for coastal women.
The centre also organised a special Women’s Day programme attended by women staff members and seaweed SHG members. The event was graced by Sanghamitra Paul Choudhary, Programme Executive of All India Radio, who highlighted the importance of gender equality and the need to reduce gender disparities in society.
Competitions including cookery and “Best from Waste” were organised as part of the celebrations, and prizes were distributed to the winners.
Veraval Research Station
International Women’s Day was also celebrated at the Veraval Research Station of ICAR-CMFRI with participation from scientists, staff members and representatives of local fishing communities.
The highlight of the event was the felicitation of Vijayaben, Chairman of Shree Bhimrao Matsyaudyog Seva Sahakari Mandali Ltd., in recognition of her leadership in strengthening community-based fisheries initiatives.
The cooperative has played a pioneering role in the region as the first Fish Farmers Producer Organization (FFPO) and has actively promoted coastal mariculture and deep-sea fishing activities, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for fisher families.
Speakers at the programme emphasised the vital role played by women in fisheries, aquaculture and allied sectors, and highlighted the importance of encouraging women’s leadership in coastal enterprises.
