Kochi, March 7: The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) will recognize two women entrepreneurs for their outstanding contributions to the fisheries sector as part of its International Women’s Day celebrations.
Akhilamol M A and Sangeetha Sunil will be felicitated on March 10 at CMFRI for their perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit, which enabled them to achieve remarkable success despite challenges, according to an official release by CMFRI.
Entrepreneurial Journey of Akhilamol M A
Hailing from Kodungallur, Akhilamol began her career in fish farming out of necessity to support her children’s education. A turning point came when she attended a CMFRI training program, equipping her with aquaculture expertise. This knowledge helped her transition into entrepreneurship, leading to the establishment of a fish farming consultancy.Under the guidance of CMFRI’s Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Hub project, Akhilamol now operates a thriving one-acre integrated fish farming unit near Kodungallur. Her unit encompasses sea bass, pearl spot, and mullet farming, along with poultry rearing, vegetable cultivation, and floriculture. Additionally, she has ventured into cage farming in the Kodungallur backwaters and offers consultancy services under the banner ‘Ponnoos Aqua Clinic.’
Sangeetha Sunil: Innovating in Fish Value Addition
Sangeetha Sunil, a resident of Nayaramabalam in Ernakulam district, has made her mark in fish value addition. She developed her business under the brand ‘Salt N Spicy,’ offering a variety of seafood-based products, including fish pickles, cutlets, chutney powder, and dry prawns.Her innovative approach to commercializing indigenous seafood varieties has gained widespread popularity. Her stall at the recent CMFRI fish festival attracted large crowds, emphasizing the growing demand for her value-added seafood products. She is also a regular supplier to the Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC) Sales Counter at the CMFRI campus.
STI Hub’s Role in Empowering Fisheries Entrepreneurs
Both Akhilamol and Sangeetha are beneficiaries of CMFRI’s STI Hub project, an initiative funded by the Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi. The project focuses on gender mainstreaming in the fisheries sector by providing cutting-edge training, technology, and entrepreneurial support.By honoring these women, CMFRI highlights the vital role of women entrepreneurs in driving innovation and sustainability in the fisheries sector. The recognition serves as an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the field.