Three Maharashtra Women SHGs Showcase Seafood Products at Seafood Expo Bharat 2026

**Executive Summary** Three women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from Maharashtra showcased value-added seafood products at the Seafood Expo Bharat 2026 in Chennai from July 1 to 3, 2026. Supported by the Enhancing Climate Resilience of India’s Coastal Communities (ECRICC) project, the initiative aimed to foster sustainable livelihoods and provide global market exposure. The event facilitated networking with international stakeholders and highlighted the potential for locally made products in the global seafood industry. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Exhibition Participation** * Three SHGs participated: Matsyakanya SHG (Raigad), Vishwakarma SHG (Ratnagiri), and Shri Siddhi Vinayak SHG (Palghar). * The groups hosted a dedicated stall featuring product displays and tasting sessions for attendees. * The event was organized by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), bringing together producers, processors, and exporters. * **ECRICC Project Framework** * The project is led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, with support from the Green Climate Fund and UNDP India. * In Maharashtra, the Mangrove Cell of the Maharashtra Forest Department serves as the nodal implementation agency. * The project provides vulnerable coastal communities with financial support, skill training, exposure visits, and market linkages. * **Outcomes and Recognition** * The ECRICC stall attracted over 100 visitors, including the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister and the Maldives Minister of State for Fisheries. * SHG members gained insights into global market trends and ideas for product improvement. * The expo highlighted the potential for creating stronger market linkages to ensure sustainable livelihoods for coastal entrepreneurs. **Impact Analysis** **Women-led SHGs (Matsyakanya, Vishwakarma, and Shri Siddhi Vinayak)** **Impact** Members gained direct exposure to the global seafood market, learned new product improvement strategies, and received validation from high-level dignitaries. **Action Required** Apply new ideas to improve seafood products and encourage more women in their respective villages to establish independent businesses. **Mangrove Cell, Maharashtra Forest Department (Nodal Agency)** **Impact** Successfully demonstrated the efficacy of the ECRICC project in developing sustainable livelihoods and connecting local producers to broader markets. **Action Required** Continue implementing the ECRICC project by providing financial support, training, and exposure visits to vulnerable coastal communities. **Coastal Communities in Maharashtra** **Impact** Increased visibility for locally made seafood products and potential for enhanced economic stability through sustainable business models. **Action Required** Engage with the ECRICC project and the Mangrove Cell to access skill training and market linkage opportunities.

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