In a first-of-its-kind initiative to strengthen India’s seafood export sector, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) organised the grand finale of the inaugural National Skill Olympiad on seafood value addition in Chennai on July 01, 2025. Held at the ongoing Seafood Expo Bharat, the event saw top talent from across the country compete to showcase their expertise in seafood processing.
The top honour went to Thanseer K R from Abad Foods, Malipuram, Kerala, who was declared the winner after an intense final round. The awards were presented by Member of Parliament and MPEDA Authority Member Hibi George Eden, along with MPEDA Chairman D. V. Swamy. The Olympiad is part of MPEDA’s broader effort to promote skill development and innovation in the seafood export ecosystem.
Prior to the finale, MPEDA conducted regional rounds along India’s East and West coasts, in Kochi on May 29 and Visakhapatnam on June 5, where trained professionals underwent rigorous skill tests. Ten semi-finalists competed on June 30, with four advancing to today’s final.
The finalists were judged on parameters such as quality, hygiene, execution, and presentation. Balamurugan I from Edhayam Frozen Foods Pvt Ltd, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, bagged the second position, while Sandya Rani Palaparthi from Coastal Cooperation Ltd, Kakinada, secured third. D. Anitha from Sandhya Aqua Exports Pvt Ltd, also from Kakinada, finished fourth.
Prize money of Rs 1 lakh was awarded to the winner, Rs 75,000 to the runner-up, Rs 50,000 to the third-place holder, and 25,000 to the fourth. All finalists received medals and certificates.
Calling the Olympiad a pioneering move, Hibi Eden lauded MPEDA’s efforts in taking seafood value addition to new levels. MPEDA Chairman D. V. Swamy said the event marks a significant step toward establishing India as a global hub for value-added seafood products. He also confirmed that the Olympiad will now be held annually.
The finale drew attendance from key stakeholders, including officials from fisheries departments, exporters, and international buyers. Visitors also got a chance to taste seafood dishes prepared by the finalists at the MPEDA Skill Olympiad pavilion.
