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Patna, Bihar – The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying is set to host a pivotal workshop focused on the Application and Demonstration of Drone Technology in Fisheries and Aquaculture on October 19, 2024, at Gyan Bhawan. This significant event aims to highlight innovative technological solutions that could transform the fisheries sector, bringing together experts, government officials, and stakeholders in the industry.
Dignitaries Attending the Workshop
Bihar’s Chief Minister, Shri Nitish Kumar, will join Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, along with other prominent figures such as Smt. Renu Devi, Minister of Animal & Fisheries Resources, and the Deputy Chief Ministers of Bihar. Their presence underscores the government’s commitment to advancing the fisheries and aquaculture industries through modern technology.
Workshop Highlights
The workshop will feature a comprehensive agenda, including technical sessions designed to showcase the potential of drone technology in enhancing fisheries practices. Experts from ICAR-CIFRI and innovative startups will present their insights and experiences, demonstrating how drones can be effectively utilized for tasks such as environmental monitoring, stock assessment, and precision fishing.
In addition to technical discussions, the event will serve as a platform for distributing resources to local farmers, including cheques for beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and other state initiatives, as well as providing essential fish feed and seeds.
River Ranching Initiative
The workshop will conclude with a river ranching program in the Ganga River at Digha Ghat, spearheaded by Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh. This initiative is designed to bolster fish populations in the river, thereby promoting ecological balance and sustainable fishery practices.
Embracing Technological Advancements
Drone technology stands to play a transformative role in the fisheries sector by facilitating efficient transportation of fish and related products, particularly to remote areas. The Department of Fisheries has initiated a pilot project with an investment of Rs 1.16 crore directed toward the development of drones for live fish transport. This initiative aims to overcome logistical challenges and improve the supply chain within the fisheries industry.
The Importance of the Fisheries Sector
The fisheries and aquaculture sector is often termed a “sunrise sector,” providing livelihoods to approximately 30 million fishers and fish farmers. Recognizing the vast potential for development, the Government of India established the Department of Fisheries in 2019, alongside the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
Significant investments totaling Rs 38,572 crore have been made since 2015 through various initiatives, including the Blue Revolution Scheme and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). These programs have aimed to enhance the welfare of fish farmers and support marginalized communities involved in fisheries.
Future Prospects
As the workshop unfolds, it will emphasize the integration of drone technology into daily fisheries operations. This could lead to substantial advancements in various areas, including:
Surveillance and Monitoring: Drones can facilitate effective monitoring of water quality, detect pollutants, and identify harmful algal blooms.
Disaster Management: Drones will prove essential in assessing damages to fisheries infrastructure during natural disasters and assisting in search and rescue operations.
Health Monitoring: Advanced drone technology can detect visible symptoms of fish diseases, enabling timely intervention.
The upcoming workshop not only seeks to showcase cutting-edge technological advancements but also reinforces the Department of Fisheries’ commitment to embracing innovation for sustainable development in the fisheries sector.
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