From seafood delights to farm fresh products to drone exhibition
Kochi: The three-day Matsya Mela that begins at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) from Saturday will showcase a wide array of attractions, including delectable seafood varieties, locally produced authentic farm products and drone exhibition. Organised as part of the 78th Foundation Day celebration, the Matsya Mela features seafood fest, technology exhibition, buyer-seller meet, open house, workshops and training sessions. The Mela is open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Seafood fest featuring an array of local delicacies of Kallummakaya (green mussel), oyster, octopus and various fish and shrimp varieties will be one of the highlights of the event. Stalls of women self-help groups, Kudumbashree units and seafood entrepreneurs will offer dishes made of marine and backwater varieties. Adding a unique touch, traditional Lakshadweep dishes will also be showcased. In addition, depurated oysters, known for its rich nutritional values, will be available for consuming live.
As an innovative public health initiative, free health check-ups for the diagnosis of lifestyle diseases, along with corresponding diet counselling will be offered at the fest.
Aimed at connecting farmers directly with consumers, the Matsya Mela will host a buyer-seller meet. It will offer locally produced farm fresh items such as millets, nutritional products Pokkali varieties, native jaggery, traditional sweets, spices, pickles, honey and fresh and processed fish products. Pearl spot fingerlings, ornamental fishes, vegetable seedlings, medicinal plants, seeds and organic manures along with health and wellness products will also be showcased.
Use of drones in paddy fields and pineapple farms will be demonstrated at the event. Latest advancements in the fisheries sector developed by various research institutes will be showcased at the technology exhibition. Awareness on government support schemes and specific banking facilities available for micro entrepreneurs will be provided to the participants.
Exhibition of Marine Life
As part of the open house, a special exhibition on wonders of marine life will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on Monday. CMFRI’s museum, marine aquarium, and various laboratories, which offer ringside view of the deep sea will be kept open to the public. A student-scientist interaction will also be held on the occasion.
Media Cell
CMFRI