Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 June 2025
The Department of Fisheries, supported by the Marine Product Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Chennai, and AAJVS, organized a specialized training programme on 14 June 2025 for the Onge Tribe of Dugong Creek, Hut Bay. The initiative focused on hygienic and sanitary handling of fish, the nutritional importance of fish consumption, various fishing techniques, and repair of fishing nets.
Conducted as part of the Skill Development programme for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), the training was attended by 30 selected members of the Onge community.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Jeyabal, Joint Director of MPEDA, Chennai, who highlighted the vital role of fish consumption in meeting the protein needs of rural communities. The sessions began with Dr. Arulmoorthy, State Coordinator for NETFISH-MPEDA, who elaborated on hygienic protocols to maintain fish freshness and reduce bacterial contamination to ensure safe consumption.
Participants viewed demonstration videos covering fishing methods, preservation techniques, and hygienic fish handling. Mr. Nesnas E.A, Assistant Fisheries Development Officer, emphasized the rich marine resources available in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their nutritional benefits. He also provided detailed guidance on the proper use and operation of fishing gears to improve fish catch efficiency.
A practical hands-on session allowed the Onge community to engage directly in repairing old nets and operating cast nets. Additionally, trainees received aid materials including fish baskets, gloves, water jerry cans, and T-shirts.
At the conclusion of the programme, Mr. Aswath M., Tribal Welfare Officer of AAJVS, appreciated the efforts of the Department of Fisheries and MPEDA in organizing the training. Speaking on behalf of the Onge community, he requested the continuation of such programmes in fisheries and aquaculture. He also appealed for the provision of fishing boats under the UT Plan and expressed interest in aquaculture activities in confined environments, proposing the implementation of an Aquaculture Demonstration project involving community participation.
The training team also included Mr. Sitangshu Ghosh, Assistant Fisheries Development Officer (SA), and Mr. G. Shibu, PCOM of the Department of Fisheries. The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and a vote of thanks by Mr. Vicky, Captain of the Onge community.