The Fishermen’s Community Development Program will host a ‘Marine Conclave’ in Bethlehem, Thirumullavaram on January 7 to discuss critical challenges and solutions in the maritime and fisheries sector. Organized in collaboration with the Center for Social Innovation and Development Studies and the South Indian Federation of Fisheries Societies, the conclave aims to address the systemic issues threatening the industry. “The sector is currently facing a serious crisis caused by marine pollution, climate change, overfishing, erosion of marine biodiversity and the harmful effects of sea sand mining – all of which require urgent attention and collective action,” said FCDP Director Fr. Saji Elambasseril at a press meet here on Saturday.
NK Premachandran, MP, will inaugurate the conclave and Paul Antony Mullassery, Bishop of Kollam, will preside over the function. Divya S. Iyer, Managing Director, Vizhinjam International Seaport, will deliver the keynote address.
There will be sessions on “Marine Ecosystems” and “Challenges for Traditional Fishing People and Innovative Socio-Economic Security Measures”. The afternoon session will be devoted to a public forum for a wide range of stakeholders, including union representatives, shipowners, political organizations and fishmongers to voice their concerns.
The conclave will conclude with a valedictory session inaugurated by Union Minister George Kurian. Finance Minister KN Balagopal and former Minister TM Thomas Isaac will be the guests of honour.
Published – 03 Jan 2026 20:16 IST
