Thanseer K R of Abad Foods Malipuram, Kerala, has won the first-ever National Skill Olympiad on seafood value addition, held during the Seafood Expo Bharat in Chennai.
The competition, organised by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), highlights India’s growing focus on skilled seafood processing and exports.
“MPEDA is planning to make this an annual event,” said Shri D.V. Swamy, chair of MPEDA.
“There is growing global demand for value-added seafood, and this Olympiad will boost India’s potential in that space.”
Four finalists showcased their skills in the grand finale, preparing products such as breaded butterfly shrimp, breaded squid rings and skewered shrimp within 80 minutes. The entries were judged on quality, hygiene, execution and presentation.
Balamurugan I of Edhayam Frozen Foods, Tamil Nadu, secured second place, followed by Sandya Rani Palaparthi of Coastal Cooperation, Andhra Pradesh. D. Anitha of Sandhya Aqua Exports took fourth place.
Thanseer was awarded ₹1,00,000 (€1,000) with varying prizes awarded to the runners-up. All winners received medals and certificates.
Shri Hibi Eden, MP and MPEDA authority member, praised the initiative and the participants’ high standards. The finale drew officials from fisheries departments, exporters and international buyers.
Judging panel members included experts from ICAR-CIFT, NIFPHATT, and leading seafood companies. The event concluded with a product showcase and tasting session for visitors.
