In a grand ceremony held on December 28, 2023, Dr. C. Tara Satyavathi, Director of the Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad, inaugurated the Millet & Fish program at ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi, organized by Ernakulam KVK to commemorate the International Year of Millets (IYM).
The primary objective of the three-day event, which took place from December 28 to 30, was to create awareness and encourage the incorporation of nutritionally rich millets into the daily diets of the local community. Recognizing Kerala’s affinity for non-vegetarian cuisine, especially its love for fish, the culinary fusion of fish and millets emerged as an ideal and delectable choice.
The inaugural session, presided over by Dr. A. Gopalakrishnan, Director, ICAR-CMFRI, saw the presence of esteemed guests, including Dr. L. Narasimha Murthy, Chief Executive, National Fisheries Development Board, and Shri G. Gopakumaran Nair, Chief General Manager, NABARD, Kerala.
Key highlights of the program include an Expo and Buyer-Seller meet, FPO Buyer-Seller meet, live fish vending, an enticing food festival, and a spectrum of engaging activities such as cookery shows, recipe contests, nutrition and health talks, panel discussions, and seminars. Dr. Shinoj Subramannian, Principal Scientist, KVK Ernakulam, and Organizing Secretary, welcomed the dignitaries, while Dr. Grinson George, Principal Scientist & Head, MBEMD, ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi, and Co-convener, offered the vote of thanks.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore, relish, and purchase authentic products, gaining insights into the health benefits through nutrition talks and seminars. The program aims to foster connections between farmers and markets, providing a distinctive and immersive experience for all participants.
