"Tissue cultured Kappaphycus alvarezi seedling distribution programme" was conducted at DIVF, Ariyaman Beach on 13.03.2026. This programme is the outcome of the collaboration between TNJFU and Aquagri Processing Pvt. Ltd. On tissue culture and micropropagation of seaweed for producing quality planting/seeding material and making them available to the seaweed cultivators. TNJFU offered space to Aquagri Processing Pvt. Ltd. for the establishment of the tissue culture laboratory and the seawater storage and recirculation facility.
Dr. N. Felix, Vice- Chancellor, TNJFU, inaugurated the programme and distributed the seedlings. In his inaugural address, he highlights the status of seaweed production in the world, the budget allotted by the Government of India. The research on value addition of seaweeds and startups developed by TNJFU utilizing incubator facility at FC&RI, Thoothukudi were also emphasised. Mr.Abhiram Seth, Managing Director, APPL, New Delhi, Mr.Chinnakuppan, Deputy Director, State Fisheries Department, Mr.Sivakumar, Assistant Director, State Fisheries Department, the scientific team of Aquagri, Director i/c, DSA, MCeSA faculty, students and supporting staff of DIVF, Mandapam were present at the programme.
Thirty women seaweed cultivators from Rameshwaram were the beneficiaries of the programme and each cultivator received the 50 kg bag of seaweed plantlets . Totally 1.5 tonne tissue cultured seaweed saplings were distributed. The MCeSa faculty and Aquagri will closely monitor the progress on the culture of the tissue cultured Kappaphycus alvarezi and also obtain the feedback from the seaweed cultivars. This release is first of its kind in the country.
