PRACTICAL EXPEDITIONS OF STI HUB

The practical implementation of the STI Hub project demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating science, technology, and innovation with community-based livelihood development for the socio-economic empowerment of Scheduled Caste (SC) fisherfolk. Through 84 interventions covering 12 fisheries- and aquaculture-based technologies, the project translated scientific knowledge into practical, location-specific, technically feasible, and economically viable entrepreneurial opportunities. Capacity-building initiatives, comprising 141 training programmes and demonstration sessions, formed the backbone of the project. A structured three-tier training programme was implemented to ensure effective technology transfer and strengthen the technical, managerial, and entrepreneurial capabilities of the beneficiaries through awareness and orientation sessions, technical training, and hands-on demonstrations. With technical guidance and continuous support from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of CMFRI and other partner agencies, beneficiaries acquired practical skills in production techniques, scientific farming practices, post-harvest handling, value addition, enterprise management, and marketing. These initiatives facilitated the establishment and adoption of diverse livelihood enterprises, including cage culture, pearl spot seed production, fish vending, dry fish production, ornamental fish culture, value-added fish products, integrated fish farming, fish fertilizer production, mussel culture, oyster culture, and clam processing. The formation and strengthening of SHGs encouraged collective participation, peer learning, and community ownership, while the project also promoted entrepreneurial development through linkages with government departments and financial institutions for access to credit and livelihood support. Furthermore, collaboration with the Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC) of CMFRI provided opportunities to strengthen market linkages for SHG products through its sales outlet, supporting the long-term sustainability of the enterprises beyond the project period. The reported minimum 30 to 35% increase in family income among beneficiary households highlighted the contribution of these interventions to livelihood enhancement, employment generation, and improved economic security. Overall, the practical experiences gained through the STI Hub project demonstrated the potential of science-led, participatory, and institutionally supported interventions to promote sustainable enterprises, strengthen the self-reliance of disadvantaged fishing communities, and facilitate the wider replication of successful livelihood models.