The College of Fisheries (COF) at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, is leading the way in an innovative idea—the mobile fish cart—in an attempt to increase awareness and per capita fish consumption in Punjab. This innovative venture not only aims to promote the nutritional advantages of fishery products but also offers a convenient solution by delivering fresh, hygienic "Ready to Cook" fish directly to consumers' doorsteps, similar to the accessibility of vegetables, milk, and milk products.
Dr. Meera D. Ansal, the Dean of COF, revealed that the mobile cart has been carefully designed to preserve the freshness and quality of fishery products throughout the marketing cycle. Equipped with a 300-liter chargeable glycol deep freezer, capable of maintaining a frozen temperature of -20°C for up to 20 hours with just 6 hours of charging, this cart is set to change the accessibility of fish in urban areas.
With a capacity to carry 100 kilograms of fishery products at a time, mobile cart addresses the needs of fish enthusiasts by providing a convenient and hassle-free solution. Dr. Ansal highlighted that this initiative, which costs approximately Rs 2.75 lakhs, is expected to be warmly welcomed by urban consumers who often face challenges accessing fresh fish in distant markets or supermarkets. Additionally, it offers the added advantage of delivering fish that require no cleaning, easing the cooking process for buyers.
Dr. Vaneet Inder Kaur, Head of the Department of Fish Processing Technology (FPT) at COF, highlighted the nutritional significance of fish, emphasizing its role as a rich source of easily digestible protein, essential amino acids, healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins. She underscored its importance for various demographic groups, including pregnant women, growing children, and individuals concerned with cardiac health, memory, and vision.
Dr. Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, lauded the initiative for its potential to boost fish consumption among urban populations. He also proposed the mobile cart being utilized for the marketing of milk and meat products, thereby strengthening the domestic market for livestock and fish products.
Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor of the university, expressed concern over Punjab's low per capita fish consumption rate, which stands at 400 grams compared to the national average of 6.8 kilograms and the WHO recommendation of 12 kilograms. He stressed the importance of promoting health benefits of fishery products through awareness campaigns and making hygienic, fresh products readily available. By doing so, he believes Punjab's aquaculture industry will rise with a healthy domestic market.
The introduction of the mobile fish cart represents a significant step towards enhancing fish consumption in Punjab, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering a healthier population.
