Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 19 June 2025
In a bid to promote safe and sanitary practices in fisheries, the Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration, in collaboration with NETFISH-MPEDA, Chennai, conducted a one-day training programme on ‘Capacity Building on Hygienic and Sanitary Procedures’ for members of the Scheduled Tribe community at Car Nicobar.
The programme was inaugurated in the presence of Mr. Lionald Nicomed, Chairman of the Tribal Council, Car Nicobar, who attended as the chief guest. Mr. Martin Luther, Secretary, Tribal Council, was the guest of honour. Also present were Mr. Paul David, 1st Captain of Perka Village; Dr. Arulmoorthy, State Coordinator, NETFISH-MPEDA, Chennai; and officials from the Department of Fisheries.
In his address, Mr. Lionald Nicomed commended the initiative and emphasized the importance of hygienic fish handling practices to boost income levels and improve access to broader markets. Mr. Martin Luther highlighted the effectiveness of the training, noting that it successfully bridged language barriers to convey vital concepts on hygiene and sanitation.
Welcoming the participants, Ms. V. Sheeja, Deputy Director, Department of Fisheries, Car Nicobar, explained that the training aimed to raise awareness among the local fishing community about the significance of hygiene at all stages—from catch to consumption.
Dr. Arulmoorthy elaborated that the training combined theoretical learning with practical demonstrations to ensure comprehensive understanding among the participants.
The technical sessions covered key topics such as hygienic handling of fish post-harvest, sanitary upkeep of landing centres and processing areas, maintenance of tools and equipment, adoption of Good Hygienic Practices (GHP), and implementation of Sanitary Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs).
To support the adoption of these practices, the Chairman and Secretary of the Tribal Council distributed fishing crates, gloves, and water cans to the fishers. The event saw enthusiastic participation from fishers across various villages of Car Nicobar, indicating strong community interest in improving hygiene standards in fisheries.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants.
