On 13-12-2023, Minister of Fisheries Hon. Douglas Devananda, participating as the Chief Guest at the Annual Session of Scientists held at NARA Institute under the theme of “Sri Lanka’s Economic Prosperity and Food Security as well as Sustainable Fishing Industry”, stated that to solve the problems faced by the fishermen, it is extremely important to conduct and implement applied research and holding discussions by the scientists working at the NARA institute through this workshop, and he believes that NARA scientists can make a great contribution to the Development of the Fisheries Sector and the well-being of the people of the country.
The Minister also stated that it is the responsibility of NARA institute to solve the problems of Fisher Folk and to provide necessary scientific guidance and Data for the Fishing Community and all stakeholders involved in the Fishing Industry, through its regional research centers established at Puttalam, Gampaha, Kalutara, Matara and Hambanthota Districts.
NARA Institute as a research institute under the Ministry of Fisheries is implementing many objectives and is working to solve these problems with all the support of the other departments of the institute including the Regional Research Centers belonging to NARA Institute. The Minister also stated that it is the responsibility of this institution to plan and support the economic development of the fishing community and the country as well as the Socio-Economic advancement of the country in the coming year. He also stated that as the Minister in charge of the Fisheries Sector, he and all the institutions belonging to the Ministry will provide support.
Hon. Piyal Nishantha, State Minister of Fisheries who participated in this event said that great progress has been made in the Fisheries Sector through the joint approach of all the institutions of the Ministry.
The event was attended by Researchers from the Chinese People’s Association and the Researchers from United States of America, including Mrs. Indu Rathnayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Chairman of NARA Institute Prof. M.J.S. Wijerathne and the Director General of NARA Dr. Kamal Thennakoon and a group of Higher Officials.
