ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA) celebrated the International Women’s Day on 8th March 2026 at its headquarters, regional research centres and recognised grass-root fisher women for their resilience cum contribution in providing nutritional security to the rural population.
About 30 fisher women self-help groups engaged in community fish farming and their families in the neighbourhood villages were invited and felicitated as part of the women’s day celebrations. The programme highlighted the vital role played by women in fisheries and aquaculture-based empowerment interventions, health awareness, and financial literacy through various cultural activities such as Rangoli competition with the theme “Empower the Women to Empower the World,” where participants creatively depicted women’s strength, equality, and leadership through vibrant designs. A singing competition was also held providing a platform for participants to showcase their musical talents and celebrate womanhood through cultural expression.
Dr. Kuldeep. K. Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA in his presidential address informed that the United Nations has declared 2026 as the ‘UN Year for Women Farmers’ and highlighted the opportunities and avenues available for women folk in fisheries and aquaculture. Women are the silent drivers of the fisheries sector and by integrating brackishwater aquaculture technologies with women-centric financial and social programmes, we are not just improving livelihoods but we are transforming rural communities, the director added.
During the occasion information on brackishwater aquaculture technologies and various women-centric programmes available for their social and financial development were communicated through role plays and indoor games. The women’s day programme successfully reinforced awareness on women’s empowerment, well-being, and financial literacy, while recognizing the valuable contributions of women in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The scientific team comprised of Dr. M. Kailasam, Dr. K. Ambasankar, Dr. M. Jayanthi, Dr. R. Jayakumar, Dr. Sherly Tomy, Dr. R. Aravind and Dr.R.Vidya coordinated the programme. The day concluded with a renewed pledge to bridge the gender gap in fisheries, ensuring that the women who nourish the nation are themselves empowered and financially secure.
