With funding from the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF) conducted a three - day skill development training program titled "Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products" from July 22, 2024, to July 24, 2024 in the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi. This program aimed to benefit students from Thassim Beevi Abdul Kadar College, Ramnad, with a total of 69 participants. The training included special lectures on topics such as entrepreneurship opportunities in marine products, an awareness session on the Innovation Voucher Program under the EDII project, and the use of Information and Communication Technology in Fish Marketing. Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi, provided an overview of the Fisheries College and Research Institute. Participants were also given a tour of the facilities of EDII- MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi, and were introduced to hands-on training in various value-added marine products. The program concluded with a valedictory function, during which Dr. B. Ahilan Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi gave a motivational talk to inspire entrepreneurship among the participants. Certificates were distributed by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FC&RI, Thoothukudi. The training was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Associate Professor and Head & Project Coordinator at EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

With funding from the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF) conducted a two - day skill development training program titled "Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products" from July 25, 2024, to July 26, 2024 in the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi. This program aimed to benefit students from The American College, Madurai, with a total of 70 participants. The training included special lectures on topics such as entrepreneurship opportunities in marine products, an awareness session on the Innovation Voucher Program under the EDII project, and the use of Information and Communication Technology in Fish Marketing. Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi, provided an overview of the Fisheries College and Research Institute. Participants were also given a tour of the facilities of EDII- MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi, and were introduced to hands-on training in various value-added marine products. The program concluded with a valedictory function, during which Dr. B. Ahilan Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi gave a motivational talk to inspire entrepreneurship among the participants. Certificates were distributed by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FC&RI, Thoothukudi. The training was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Associate Professor and Head & Project Coordinator at EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

With funding from the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF) conducted a two- day workshop titled "Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products" from April 29, 2024, to April 30, 2024 in the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi. This program aimed to benefit students from Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education from Krishnan Kovil, Virudhunagar, with a total of 70 participants. The training included special lectures on topics such as entrepreneurship opportunities in marine products, an awareness session on the Innovation Voucher Program under the EDII project, and the use of Information and Communication Technology in Fish Marketing. Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi, provided an overview of the Fisheries College and Research Institute. Participants were also given a tour of the facilities of EDII- MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi, and were introduced to hands-on training in various value-added marine products. The program concluded with a valedictory function, during which Dr. B. Ahilan Dean of FCRI, Thoothukudi gave a motivational talk to inspire entrepreneurship among the participants. Certificates were distributed by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean of FC&RI, Thoothukudi. The training was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Associate Professor and Head & Project Coordinator at EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi, inaugurated food trucks (2 nos.) owned by the incubatee, M/s. FLTF Food Products LLP, (Rybax), Thoothukudi of EDII-MPBIF at Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi on 25.09.2023. The incubatee already operates a commercial restaurant that exclusively serves value-added fish and fishery products with a technological support from EDII-MPBIF. In this regard, in order to extend their business and reach consumers directly by selling their products in public places these trucks can be utilized. Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, inaugurated the food trucks. Staff and students of FC&RI and EDII – MPBIF staff participated in the event. The event was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FCRI, Thoothukudi.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi, in association with EDII – Periyakulam Horti Business Incubation Forum organized a two days skill development training programme on “Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Seaweed Products” during the period from 15.11.2023 to 16.11.2023. A total of 20 beneficiaries who were entrepreneurs from various parts of Tamil Nadu namely Chennai, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi districts, and Food science students of American College, Madurai participated and benefited from the event organized. The beneficiaries were given special lectures on the following topics namely avenues of entrepreneurship in marine products, an awareness session on the Innovation Voucher Program under the EDII project, and funding avenues through various schemes. A session on an overview of Fisheries College and Research Institute (FCRI), Thoothukudi was taken by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi. Followed by which trainees were taken for a visit and shown the facilities of EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi. The participants were then demonstrated with various value-added seaweed products such as seaweed-incorporated bakery products (Viz. cakes, bread, bun and cookies), extruded products, pasta products, and fish sausage. At the end of the training programme, trainees registered their feedback and certificates were then distributed by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

Under the financial support of the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF) conducted a two-day skill development training program titled "Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products" at the Department of Fish Processing Technology (DFPT), Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi from July 25, 2023, to July 26, 2023. The beneficiaries of this program were 80 students from Thassim Beevi Abdul Kader College for Women in Kilakarai, Ramnad. The inaugural ceremony was addressed by Dr. P. Ganesan, Associate Professor and Head & Project Coordinator of EDII-MPBIF, and Dr. Rosy Fernando, Director of Entrepreneurship Development Cell at the college, spoke about the importance of the training programme and the efforts made by EDII-MPBIF team and Fisheries College for the conduction of this type of entrepreneurial training program to their wards. Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FC&RI, Thoothukudi, presided over the function and emphasized the impact of similar training programs on progressive farmers and entrepreneurs. He also discussed the role of the incubation center and the importance of student entrepreneurship. The participants received lectures on various entrepreneurial topics, including avenues in marine products and the Innovation Voucher Program under the EDII project. They were also exposed to different value-added marine products during the training. The program concluded with a valedictory function where participants provided feedback, and certificates were distributed by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FC&RI, Thoothukudi. The training was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Associate Professor and Head & Project Coordinator at EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

The Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), supported by the Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, organized a two- day skill development training program titled "Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products' from 08.03.2023 to 09.03.2023. This program, held at the Department of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute in Thoothukudi, benefited 66 participants from Bishop Heber College, Trichy. During the inaugural ceremony, Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head i/c & Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF, welcomed the attendees, and Ms. Sheeba Assistant Professor from Bishop Heber College discussed the support provided by EDII-MPBIF for their students in the marine product entrepreneurship field. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Professor and Head, DFEE&S, FCRI, Thoothukudi who highlighted the scope of entrepreneurship in marine processing. Participants received technical training, learned about value-added fishery products, packaging, marketing, and government support schemes. The valedictory function, presided over by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi, emphasized thinking big, learning from successful entrepreneurs, identifying market gaps, and fostering sustainable entrepreneurship. The program concluded with certificate distribution by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi and a vote of thanks by Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head i/c and project coordinator, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi who organized this training programme.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at Department of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, organized a one-day skill development training programme on “Pickle preparation” on 23.11.2022. A total of 20 participants from Theni district NGOs namely Bodi Samuga Munetra Sangam (SMS) and Sakti group participated in the above said program. The participants were given hands on training in the production of fish and shrimp pickles. The participants were also shown the facilities of EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi and gave awareness on the preparation of other value added marine products. At the end of the day, certificate were distributed to the participants. The participants then registered their feedback. During the event Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi given his inputs to the beneficiaries to turn into a successful entrepreneur. Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Co-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi organized this training programme.

The Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), supported by the Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII) in Chennai, conducted a one- day awareness training program on "Entrepreneurship in Marine Products" on September 26, 2022. This event, held at the Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU in Thoothukudi, saw participation from 41 students from Holy Cross Home Science College's Food Science and Nutrition department. During the inaugural programme, Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF welcomed the gathering. Followed by the felicitation address by Dr. B.Ahilan, Dean, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi and the inaugural ceremony was presided over by Dr.G.Sugumar, Vice-Chancellor, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, he discussed ways to enhance entrepreneurship in the marine products industry and encouraged students to think innovatively and consider self-employment opportunities. Technical sessions followed and also shown the facilities of EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi, concluding with a valedictory function which was presided over by Dr. B. Ahilan, Dean, FCRI, Thoothukudi. Dr. R. Santhakumar, Professor, DFEE&S, FCRI, thoothukudi participated in the valedictory function and given his inputs to the beneficiaries to turn into a successful entrepreneur and then certificates were distributed, and participants provided feedback. The whole program was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head, and Project Coordinator, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi.

Fisheries College and Research Institute (FCRI), Thoothukudi a constituent college of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam organized an MoU signing event on 09.07.2022 between EDII-MPBIF, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, and M/s. FLTF Food Products LLP, Thoothukudi to promote collaborative incubation and start-up activities between the parties. In this regard, Dr.R.Santhakumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, welcomed the gathering, followed by Dr.P.Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, Department of Fish Processing Technology, FCRI, Thoothukudi, who briefed about the scope and significance of MoU. Then Mr.S. Mithra, Founder, M/s. FLTF Food Products LLP spoke about their company profile and shared their perception towards the MoU signing with TNJFU, Nagapattinam, after which, Dr.J. Stephen Sampath Kumar, Director of Research i/c, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, talked on the common features of MoU. The Vice-Chancellor, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, Dr.G.Sugumar, who presided over the event graced the occasion and gave presidential notes. During the event, Dr.J.Stephen Sampath Kumar, Director of Research, TNJFU, Nagapattinam and Mr. S. Mithra, Founder, M/s. FLTF Food Products LLP, Thoothukudi signed the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of TNJFU, Nagapattinam and M/s. FLTF Food Products LLP, Thoothukudi respectively in the presence of Dr.G.Sugumar, Vice Chancellor, TNJFU. All Head of the Departments, FCRI, Thoothukudi and other staff of DFPT participated in the event. The program was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi.

EDII-MPBIF in association with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), Chennai organized a three day skill development program in May 2022 during the inauguration of which MP, Thoothukudi constituency; Minister of Social welfare & Women Empowerment; Fisheries Minister; Thoothukudi corporation Mayor; Thoothukudi District Collector; EDII- Additional Director; Vice Chancellor, TNJFU; and SIDBI- General manager were participated in the event. On the same occasion, EDII-MPBIF Profile 2022 & training manual on Preparation of value added fishery products & its packaging technology were released by the ministers during the event.

Rybax has opened its first commercial hub in Thoothukudi, which will be dedicated solely to seafood products serving more than 30 varieties. In this regard, the Vice-Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University (TNJFU), Dr.G.Sugumar, inaugurated the "Rybax- Seafood Restaurant" on March 26, 2022, as Rybax is one of the incubatees of the EDII – Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (EDII-MPBIF), which is functioning at the Department of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi. During the inaugural event, Mr. Mithra, the Founder and CEO of Rybax restaurant, Thoothukudi, welcomed the chief guest and the staff from Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, and the business community from Thoothukudi. Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head and Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, spoke about the association of EDII-MPBIF with the Rybax restaurant. Followed by Felicitation address by Dr. R. Santhakumar, Dean i/c, FC&RI, Thoothukudi. The Vice Chancellor of TNJFU, delivered the chief guest address and mentioned that it was a great initiative by the Rybax team, and appreciated the work made by EDII-MPBIF in guiding Rybax to the point where they can create their own restaurant dedicated exclusively to marine products. Also, he stated that it was a proud moment for the institute that Rybax is started swimming in the world of Seafood business”. Finally, the program ended with the vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Akbar Basha, Business Architect, Rybax restaurant, Thoothukudi.

Fisheries College and Research Institute (FCRI), Thoothukudi a constituent college of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam organized an MoU signing event on 19.03.2022 between EDII- Marine Products Business Incubation Forum, FCRI, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, and Herblis Health Care, Madurai to promote collaborative incubation and start-up activities between the parties. In this regard, Dr. R. Santhakumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, welcomed the gathering, followed by Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi, who briefed about the scope of EDII-MPBIF and the significance of MoU signing. Then Mr. P. Venkataragavan, Founder, Hearblis Health Care spoke about their company profile and shared their perception towards the MoU signing with EDII-MPBIF, FCRI, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, after which, Dr. J. Stephen Sampath Kumar, Director of Research, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, talked on the common features of MoU. The Vice-Chancellor, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, Dr. G. Sugumar, who presided over the event graced the occasion and gave presidential notes. During the event, Dr. J. Stephen Sampath Kumar, Director of Research, TNJFU, Nagapattinam and Mr. Venkataragavan, Founder, Herblis Health Care, Madurai signed the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of EDII-MPBIF, FCRI, TNJFU, Thoothukudi and Herblis Health Care respectively in the presence of Dr.G.Sugumar, Vice Chancellor, TNJFU. As a token of gratitude, Mr.Venkataragavan, Founder, Herblis Health Care, presented a memento to Dr.G.Sugumar, Vice Chancellor, TNJFU, Nagapattinam. Followed by this, an Innovation Voucher Program (IVP) grant under the scheme of EDII-MPBIF, was distributed by Vice-Chancellor, TNJFU, Dr. G. Sugumar, to the IVP awardee M/s. Nutrigenetics Life Science Pvt. Ltd, Madurai. The HoDs’ of FCRI, Thoothukudi and Assistant Professors, and other staff of DFPT participated in the event. The whole program was organized by Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head, and Project Coordinator, DFPT, FCRI, Thoothukudi.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, organized a three days workshop on “Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” from 22.02.2022 to 24.02.2022. A total of 36 participants registered for the event and they were the students from APC Mahalaxmi College for Women, Thoothukudi. Day one started with the technical sessions, Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF welcomed the gathering during the inaugural and gave key points regarding the Avenues of Entrepreneurship in Marine Products and coordinated the visit of EDII- Marine Products Business Incubation Forum in the Department of Fish Processing Technology to know about the incubation facilities. Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, presided over the inaugural function. During the course of training programme on consecutive days (23.02.2022 & 24.02.2022), preparation of seaweed /fish based bakery products such as cake, biscuits, bread, and fish based battered and breaded products, and fish pickles were demonstrated for the benefit of trainees. The valedictory function was conducted on the 3rd day of the training programme which was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi and he also extended his constant support and fed his inputs to the beneficiaries in entrepreneurial developments and achievements. The participants registered their feedback on the conducted training program. The Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, then distributed the certificates to the participants. Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Co-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi organized this training programme.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, organized a three days skill development training programme on “Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” from 08.02.2022 to 10.02.2022. A total of 40 participants registered for the event. Out of which 30 were the students and staffs from Holy Cross Home Science College of Food science and nutrition department, 4 from M/s. Prince foods, Salem, and few others also participated in the above said event. Day one started with the technical sessions, Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF welcomed the gathering during the inaugural and gave key points regarding the Avenues of Entrepreneurship in Marine Products and coordinated the visit of EDII- Marine Products Business Incubation Forum in the Department of Fish Processing Technology to know about the incubation facilities. Dr. R. Santhakumar, Dean in-charge, presided over the inaugural function, and he has given a talk on traits of entrepreneurship during his lectures. The beneficiaries were also given another special lecture pertaining to nutritional importance of fish food, and HACCP implementation in fish processing industries. During the course of training programme on consecutive days (09.02.2022 & 10.02.2022), preparation of seaweed /fish based bakery products such as cake, biscuits, bread, and fish based battered and breaded products, and fish pickles were demonstrated for the benefit of trainees. The valedictory function was conducted on the 3rd day of the training programme which was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi and he also extended his constant support and fed his inputs to the beneficiaries in entrepreneurial developments and achievements. The participants registered their feedback on the conducted training program. The Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, then distributed the certificates to the participants. Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Co-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi organized this training programme.

A webinar on “Promoting Innovation and Startup Culture in Marine Products Business Sector (Series- 01) of Season 2022” was organized under the scheme of “EDII-Marine Products Business Incubation Forum” at Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi on 03.02.2022. A total of 60 students from St. Xavier’s college, Nagercoil of CS department participated in the webinar.

In the webinar, our first speaker, Dr.N.V.Sujathkumar, Dean, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, briefly explained the application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Fish Marketing and Market Information System. Followed by, Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head and Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FCRI, has given his input on the Avenues of Entrepreneurship in Marine Products. Dr. R. Santhakumar, Professor and Head, delivered a lecture on Traits of Entrepreneurs and Fund Avenues for Entrepreneurs in Marine Processing. Finally, the session ended with the talk delivered by Ms. M. Ruthra, CEO, EDII-MPBIF, who in detail covered Application of Artificial Neural Networking, Fuzzy Logic and Internet Based Things in Food Processing.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, organized two one day awareness training programmes on “Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” on 14.12.2021 and 15.12.2021 for the benefits of the students of St.Xavier’s Catholic College of Engineering, Nagercoil. A total of 114 beneficiaries from St.Xavier’s Catholic College of Engineering attended this training programme. During the Inaugural function of this programme, Dr.P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head&Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF welcomed the gathering. Dr.R. Santhakumar, Professor and Head, DFEES, FC&RI, Thoothukudi and Mrs. S T Sheriba, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, St.Xavier’s Catholic College of Engineering felicitated the programme with key notes on the nutritional aspects of fish. The function was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge, who stressed that progressive farmers/entrepreneurs had established their own units after attending similar training programs given by this institute and also, he has given a talk on an overview of FC&RI, Thoothukudi during his lectures to the participants. The beneficiaries were also given special lectures pertaining to entrepreneurial opportunities, traits of fish entrepreneurs, and the avenues of funding to start entrepreneurship in the marine sector. Special lectures were given by the staff of this college. The trainees visited the EDII- Marine Products incubation forum of the Department of Fish Processing Technology to know about the incubation facilities. The valedictory function was conducted in the evening which was presided over by Dr. R. Santhakumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi and he also extended his constant support and given his inputs to the beneficiaries in entrepreneurial developments and achievements. The participants registered their feedback on the conducted training program. The Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, distributed the certificates to the participants. Dr. P. Ganesan, ProjectCo-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi organized this training programme.

Under the funding support of Entrepreneurs Development Innovation Institute (EDII), Chennai, the Marine Products Business Incubation Forum (MPBIF), which is being operated at Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, organized a one day awareness training programme on “Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” on 21.12.2021 for the benefits of the students of St.Xavier’s Catholic College of Engineering, Nagercoil. A total of 42 beneficiaries assisted with Dr. J. JerlinRajan and Jasmine Suguna, Assistant Professors, Department of MBA from St.Xavier’s Catholic College of Engineering, Nagercoil attended this training programme. During the morning technical session Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project coordinator of EDII- MPBIF welcomed the gathering and gave key points regarding the Avenues of Entrepreneurship in Marine Products and visited the EDII- Marine Products incubation forum in the Department of Fish Processing Technology to know about the incubation facilities. Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge, who stressed that progressive farmers/entrepreneurs had established their own units after attending similar training programmes given by this institute and also, he has given a talk on an overview of FC&RI, Thoothukudi during his lectures. The beneficiaries were also given another special lectures pertaining to Traits of fish entrepreneurs by our Dr. R. Santhakumar, Professor and Head, DFEES, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi.Ms. M. Ruthra, CEO, EDII-MPBIF, FCRI, Thoothukudi puts her inputs regarding agribusiness management and marketing. The valedictory function was conducted in the evening which was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi and he also extended his constant support and fed his inputs to the beneficiaries in entrepreneurial developments and achievements. The participants registered their feedback on the conducted training program. The Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi, then distributed the certificates to the participants. Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Co-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi organized this training programme.

EDII-MPBIF organized a three days skill development training programme on “Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” for the period from 26.10.2021 to 28.10.2021 at FC&RI, Thoothukudi for the benefits of the students of Bishop Heber College, Tiruchirappalli. A total of 28 beneficiaries from Bishop college Trichy attended this training programme. At the inauguration function, Dr.P.Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project Coordinator of EDII-MPBIF, welcomed the gathering. Mrs. D. Muneera and Mrs. S. Bavithra, Assistant Professors, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Bishop Heber College, Tiruchirappalli, spoke about the importance of the training programme and the previous activities that took place between them (Bishop college) and the host institute. Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge, presided over the function and mentioned that progressive farmers/entrepreneurs had established their own units after attending similar training programmes provided by this institute, as well as offering a talk on an overview of FC&RI, Thoothukudi during his lectures to the participants. The beneficiaries were also given special lectures pertaining to entrepreneurial opportunities and the avenues of funding in the marine sector. In the consecutive days of the training program, the production of seaweed based bakery products viz. cookies, cakes and breads, fish based battered and breaded products, pasta products and, fish sausages and pickles were demonstrated to the participants. Dr. R. Santhakumar, Professor and Head, DFEE&S, FCRI, Thoothukudi, has provided regular support and input to the beneficiaries in their entrepreneurial endeavours. On the third day of the training programme, the valedictory function was organized and the participants were provided feedback on the training programme. The certificates were distributed by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in Charge. This training was organised by Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Coordinator, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.80

A three-day skill development training programme on “Sprouting Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” organized under the project EDII-MPBIF at Fisheries Cllege and Research Institute (FC&RI), Thoothukudi from 21.09.2021 to 23.09.2021 . At the inauguration function, Dr.P.Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head & Project Coordinator of EDII-MPBIF, welcomed the gathering. Mrs. D. Shunmuga Selva sivasankari and Mrs. R. Thanga Selvam, Assistant Professors of Annamal College of Education for Women in Thoothukudi, spoke to the participants about the significance of the training programme and job opportunities. Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge, presided over the event, emphasising that progressive farmers/entrepreneurs had established their own units after attending similar training programmes offered by this institute, as well as given a presentation to the participants on an overview of FC&RI, Thoothukudi.Special lectures on business potential and finance options in the marine sector were also presented to the participants. The participants were shown how to make seaweed-based bakery products such as cookies, cakes and breads, as well as fish-based battered and breaded products and pickles, during the training session. On the third day of the training programme, the valedictory celebration was held, which was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in Charge.Mr. Ashokkumar, Deputy Director, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Thoothukudispoke at the event and gave a guest lecture on marine product export guidelines and regulations. The participants provided their feedback on the training programme. The certificates were then distributed by the Dean in-charge, FC&RI, Thoothukudi. This training has been organised and coordinated by Dr. P. Ganesan, Project Coordinator, EDII- MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.

EDII – MPBIF organized a one-day training programme on Fish Smoking Technique and Masmin Production on 17.09.2021 for the benefit of students from Holy Cross college, Thoothukudi. A total of 50 beneficiaries from Holy Cross Home Science of food science and nutrition background attended this training programme. Dr. P. Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Fish Processing Technology, welcomed the gathering at the inaugural function. Mrs. Karolin, Assistant Professor, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Holy Cross Home Science College, Thoothukudi delivered a key note on the nutritional aspects of fish. The function was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge, who stressed that progressive farmers/entrepreneurs had established their own units after attending similar training programmes given by this institute. The beneficiaries were given special lectures on fish entrepreneurial characteristics and funding opportunities for starting a fish processing enterprise. The production of masmin from tuna was demonstrated for the benefit of the participants during the training session. The valedictory function was conducted in the evening and it was presided over by Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in Charge. Dr. P. Jawahar, Controller of examination, Tamil Nadu Dr.J.Jayalalitha Fisheries University, Nagapattinam participated in the event and explained the significance of entrepreneurship in the fisheries sector. The participants provided feedback on the training programmes effectiveness. The Dean in-charge, FC&RI, Thoothukudi and the Controller of Examination, TNJFU, Nagapattinam, distributed the certificates to the participants. Dr. P. Ganesan, the Project Co-ordinator, EDII-MPBIF, organized the entire session.

A three day skill development training programme on “Entrepreneurship in Marine Products” organised under the scheme of “EDII-Marine Products Business Incubation Forum” at Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC & RI), Thoothukudi during the period from 10.08.2021 to 12.08.2021. This program is convened mainly for the benefit of trainees under the funding support of Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Project (TNRTP), Thoothukudi District for Technology dissemination. A total of 25 beneficiaries from TNRTP of Thoothukudi district attended the training programme. The inaugural function was organized on 10.08.2021. Dr.P.Ganesan, Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Fish Processing Technology welcomed the gathering. Mr. Muthamil Selvan, District Executive Officer, TNRTP, Thoothukudi District, and Mrs. Radha, Executive Officer, Employment Opportunity, TNRTP, Thoothukudi District, felicitated the program with the key notes on the importance of employment opportunities and objective of the training program. Dr. N.V. Sujathkumar, Dean in-charge presided over the function. He emphasized that progressive farmers / entrepreneurs have established their own units after attending similar kind of training programme organized by this institute. Dr. R. Santhakumar, Professor and Head, Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics delivered vote of thanks to the gatherings of the program. Followed by, technical sessions on facilities of EDII – MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi and business/employment opportunities were carried out with resource persons from FC&RI, Thoothukudi. During the course of training programme on consecutive days (11.08.2021 & 12.08.2021), preparation of seaweed cake, biscuits, bread, fish based battered and breaded products and fish pickles were demonstrated for the benefit of trainees. The Valedictory function was organized on 12.08.2021. In the function, the certificates were distributed to the participants by the Dean i/c, FCRI, Thoothukudi.

A webinar on “Promoting Innovation and Startup Culture in Marine Products Business Sector (Series- 05) under the series of Ocean Bounty Season 2021” organized under the scheme of “EDII-Marine Products Business Incubation Forum” at Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi on 05.07.2021. The session had a deeper insight on Advancement and entrepreneurial opportunities in value added fish and fishery products. In this regard, Dr. N. V. Sujathkumar, Dean In charge, Fisheries College and Research Institute (FC&RI), TNJFU, Thoothukudi delivered a talk on application of ICT for fish marketing and market information system. Followed by the talk of Dr. P. Ganesan, The Project Coordinator, EDII- MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi on Avenues for Start-ups in Marine Products Business. Finally, the session ended with the talk on Emerging technologies in Food Preservation given by Ms. M. Ruthra, CEO, EDII-MPBIF, FC&RI, Thoothukudi.