In a significant move towards sustainable agriculture and circular economy, the ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Kochi, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Varalikka Manaksia and Aditya B. Manaksia from Kolkata for the transfer of an innovative technology titled “Agro-nutrient formulation from fish waste for seed priming and stress resilience.”
The MoA was signed as part of CIFT’s ongoing efforts to promote eco-innovations and valorisation of fishery waste.
Varalikka Manaksia, a dynamic and promising young entrepreneur, is the youngest incubatee associated with the institute. She is spearheading this technology adoption with support from her father, Aditya B Manaksia, a seasoned entrepreneur from West Bengal, said a press release.
Broader mandate
George Ninan, Director of CIFT, noted that the agreement represents a major milestone in the institute’s commitment to promoting circular economy practices through the productive reuse of fishery by-products. As part of the agreement, CIFT will provide complete technical guidance for the preparation of the agro-nutrient formulation and will supply a detailed project report to facilitate implementation and scale-up by the licensee.
The initiative aligns with CIFT’s broader mandate to disseminate research-backed, commercially viable technologies for public benefit. The technology transfer also supports national priorities in sustainable development, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship. The collaboration highlights the growing participation of young entrepreneurs in the agri-startup ecosystem and reflects the institute’s role in nurturing innovation and enterprise through its incubation platform.