Kochi: A three-day Matsya Mela got underway at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) on Saturday, drawing seafood enthusiasts and those seeking locally produced farm varieties alike. Seafood fest that features delicious Kallummakkaya (green mussel) biriyani, sagarasadya and a range of fish and prawn varieties is one of the highlights of the event. Local delicacies of pearl spot, squid, prawns, scientifically depurated live oysters and an array of sweets are attracting visitors with their unique flavour.
The Matsya Mela also features buyer-seller meet, technology exhibition, workshops and training.
Visitors can purchase locally produced authentic farm fresh items brought by various farmer producer companies. The products include Alangad jaggery, moringa powder, millet nutritional mix, traditional sweets, pokkali varieties, banana halwa, mushroom, jackfruit and tapioca value additions, spices, pickles and honey. The meet aims to create a market for these products and secure trade deals.
Another highlight of the event is the display of dazzling ornamental fishes in attractive colours. Varieties such as Arowanas, Discus, Oscars, and countless other mesmerising species are available for sale. In addition, fingerlings of pearl spot and seeds and seedlings of vegetables and medicinal plants are available.
The exhibition introducing the potential of using drones in agricultural crops attracted crowds. Experts explained the potential use of drones to reduce time and cost and assess crop loss during the exhibition which was inaugurated by Prof. K V Thomas.
The Matsya Mela was inaugurated by Dr V Venkatasubramanian, Director, Agriculture Technology Application Research Institute, Bangalore. CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George presided.
The technology exhibition showcases latest innovations in fisheries and allied sectors developed by various research institutes.
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 views 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