In order to promote sustainable fisheries along the coast of Goa and Ratnagiri, six fishery societies and some private players have come together to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU)

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The fishery societies, which have signed the MoU, are Ratnadurga Macchimar Society, Adarsh Machchimar Society, Mandovi Fishermen Marketing Co-op Society Ltd, Vasco Fishing Boat Owners Marketing Co-Op Society Ltd, Zuari Fishermen Marketing Co-Operative Society Ltd and Cutband Boat Owners Development Society. The private players, which are part of this MoU, areOmega Fishmeal and Oil Private Limited and CPF (India) Private Limited. Dr Sharmila Monterio, director of fisheries, was present on the occasion of signing of MoU. The MoU has been signed to support Fisheries Improvement Project (FIP), which in turn will promote sustainability in the supply chain of fisheries and related products along the coast of Goa and Ratnagiri. It is also reported that the launch of FIP will focus on Indian Oil Sardine in the western coast of India. The MoU is aimed at improving efficiency of fisheries management, fostering food safety and environmental responsibility throughout the supply chain. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shamila Monterio, said, “It is very heartening to see that the processing industry has come forward to have an FIP for Indian Oil Sardine. Together with Mackerel, Indian Oil Sardine contributes about 50% to the total marine fish catch of the state. It is a power packed fish, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids and is called the provider for the fisherman.”