Solar dryers distributed to fisherwomen as part of livelihood initiative

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In a significant step towards strengthening livelihoods and building resilience among coastal residents of Keezhavaippar in Pattinamarudhur, TMB Foundation in association with M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) has taken up an initiative of providing solar dryers and developing community infrastructure as part of an integrated livelihood development programme.

As part of the initiative 20 women from Keezhavaippar underwent training at Fish for All Research and Training Centre, Poompuhar, on scientific dry-fish production using solar dryers. The programme aimed to address the limitations of traditional open-air sun drying, including hygiene, quality, weather dependency and marketability.

Taking the initiative forward, 20 mini-solar dryers were distributed to the trained fisherwomen at Keezhavaippar. The solar dryers are expected to adopt safer and more hygienic post harvest practices, improve product quality and explore better market opportunities and value addition.

A multi-purpose community hall was also inaugurated at Pattinamarudhur to address the long-standing infrastructure needs of the fishing community. The facility will provide dedicated space for activities such as fishing-net mending, gear repair and post harvest maintenance.

M. Muthiah, CEO Of TMB Foundation, who led the event said “Our objective is not merely to provide an asset or conduct a training programme, but to create a sustainable livelihood model owned and driven by the community.”

S. Velvizhi, area director-fisheries and livelihoods, MSSRF, highlighted the integrated nature of the intervention, bringing together skill development, livelihood opportunities, access to welfare schemes, market linkages, community infrastructure and institutional support.

She emphasised that such a comprehensive approach is essential to create sustainable and long-term improvements in the livelihoods of coastal communities rather than addressing individual challenges in isolation.

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