Seaweeds are the macro algae growing in marine and shallow coastal waters. Recently, they have emerged as a new source of food, energy, chemicals and medicines. They are often termed as the ‘Medical Food of the 21st Century’ due to their use in treatment of goitre, cancer, bone-replacement therapy and cardiovascular surgeries.
In India, there are around 46 seaweed-based industries that are facing problems due to short supply of raw materials. These are used in the preparation of agar, agarose and carrageenan.
Scope of Seaweed cultivation in India –
Rich seaweed beds around Mumbai, Ratnagiri, Goa, Karwar, Varkala, Vizhinjam and Pulicat in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh; and Chilika in Odisha, provides a huge scope for the seaweed cultivation in India.
Seaweed cultivation will go a long way in supporting lives of coastal fisher-families, especially fisher-women, farmers and entrepreneurs. Keeping these things in mind, the government has setup a fund of around INR 640 crore for boosting seaweed cultivation in the country.
Seaweed species and their uses –
Red Seaweeds: Gelidiella acerosa, Gracilaria edulis and G. dura are used for manufacturing Agar, Kappaphycus alvarezii used in manufacturing Carrageenan
Brown Seaweeds: Sargassum wightii and Turbinaria conoides are used for manufacturing of Alginates
Seed stock of seaweeds is collected from south-eastern coast of Tamil Nadu.
Process and Locations for implementation of the project –
- In shallow coastal waters of maritime states
- Technological Partners - CSIR-Central Salt Marine and Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI), Gujarat and Mandapam Regional Centre, Tamil Nadu
- Implementing Agency – Department of Fisheries in coastal states/UTs
- Financial Assistance by National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)
Conclusion –
The Government of India is trying to promote seaweed cultivation in such a way that, it enhances the income of fishers in the coastal areas. Through seaweed cultivation, the industry dependent on it as a source of raw material will get a boost, which in turn will help in generating employment in the country. Thus, Seaweed cultivation is a win-win condition for all.