Overview
The MPEDA organised the second edition of the National Skill Olympiad on Seafood Value Addition during Seafood Expo Bharat 2026 in Kochi. Ten finalists demonstrated their expertise by preparing six export‑oriented products.
Key Developments
- P. Surya Bhaskar of Devi Fisheries Ltd., Kakinada won the first prize of Rs 1,00,000.
- Muthu Kumaran (Theva & Co., Tuticorin) secured second place with a prize of Rs 75,000.
- Sagarika Sardar (SS Seafoods Pvt. Ltd., Kolkata) and Barasarani Jena (Sabri Food Products Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar) took third and fourth places, receiving Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000 respectively.
- Prior to the finale, MPEDA conducted 50 training programmes across the east and west coasts, up‑skilling more than 2,500 seafood processing workers.
- The regional qualifiers were held in Mumbai (West Coast) and Visakhapatnam (East Coast) on 30 June 2026.
Important Facts
The finalists were asked to prepare the following products, all in high demand in international markets:
- Nobashi Shrimp
- Breaded Butterfly Shrimp
- Cooked Peeled Deveined Tail‑On (PDTO) Shrimp
- Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Breaded Squid Rings
- Fish Fillets
The jury comprised experts from ICAR‑CIFT, NIFPHATT, and senior industry managers. Evaluation criteria included technical skill, hygiene, precision, presentation, and product quality.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the role of SEAI and MPEDA helps answer questions on India's export strategy, sector‑specific skill development, and quality assurance mechanisms (GS3). The Olympiad illustrates how the government leverages public‑private partnerships to boost competitiveness of traditional sectors, a theme often explored in GS3 and GS4 (ethics of sustainable development).
Way Forward
MPEDA plans to expand training to newer coastal states, introduce advanced processing technologies, and link skill outcomes with export incentives. Strengthening supply‑chain traceability and adhering to international food‑safety standards will further enhance India's position in the global seafood market.