Kallummakkaya biryani to Alangad jaggery, CMFRI’s Matsya Mela draws crowd

Pearl spot fish seeds being displayed at the three-day CMFRI fest which started in the city on February 1.
| Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKAT

A three-day Matsya Mela got underway at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi on Saturday (February 1), drawing seafood enthusiasts and those seeking locally produced farm varieties alike. The seafood fest that features Kallummakkaya (green mussel) biryani, Sagara sadya and a range of fish and prawn varieties is one of the highlights of the event. Local delicacies of pearl spot, squid, prawns, scientifically depurated live oysters, and an array of sweets are attracting visitors with their unique flavours. The Matsya Mela also features a buyer-seller meet, technology exhibition, workshops and training, according to a press release issued here.

Organic vegetables being displayed at the three-day CMFRI fest which started in the city on February 1.

Organic vegetables being displayed at the three-day CMFRI fest which started in the city on February 1.
| Photo Credit:
THULASI KAKKAT

Visitors can purchase locally produced authentic farm fresh items brought by various farmer producer companies. The products include Alangad jaggery, moringa powder, millet nutritional mix, traditional sweets, pokkali varieties, banana halwa, mushroom, jackfruit and tapioca value additions, spices, pickles, and honey. The meet aims to create a market for these products and secure trade deals. 



Another highlight of the event is the display of ornamental fishes in attractive colours. Varieties such as Arowanas, Discus, Oscars, and countless other species are available for sale. In addition, fingerlings of pearl spot and seeds, and seedlings of vegetables and medicinal plants are available.

The exhibition introducing the potential of using drones in agricultural crops attracted crowds. Experts explained the potential use of drones to reduce time and cost and assess crop loss during the exhibition.

The Matsya Mela was inaugurated by V. Venkatasubramanian, director, Agriculture Technology Application Research Institute, Bengaluru. CMFRI director Dr Grinson George presided over the event. The technology exhibition showcases the latest innovations in fisheries and allied sectors developed by various research institutes.

As part of the open house, a special exhibition on the wonders of marine life will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday (February 3). CMFRI’s museum, marine aquarium, and various laboratories, which offer ringside views of the deep sea, will be kept open to the public. A student-scientist interaction will also be held on the occasion.