As part of the ongoing Neelamritam initiative under the Blue is the New Pink program, AMMACHI Labs and the Center for Women’s Empowerment & Gender Equality (CWEGE) at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham hosted Dr. Arai Shogo, a pioneer in seaweed research and a leading figure in Japan’s sea vegetable industry, for a field visit to project sites in Andhra Pradesh.
Accompanied by Dr. Bhavani Rao R, UNESCO Chair for Gender Equality & Women’s Empowerment and Dean of the Amrita School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, the team visited Mangamaripeta on April 28 and Donkuru on April 29 to review project progress and guide the next phase of implementation.
At Mangamaripeta, discussions focused on sea conditions, species selection, and the adaptation of Japanese cultivation practices. The team also conducted field monitoring of recently installed seaweed cultivation clusters. Dr. Arai observed that the clusters were performing exceptionally well, underscoring the effectiveness of community-led efforts.
In Donkuru, the visit continued with technical exchanges and on-site observations of Kappaphycus alvarezii cultivated in nearby backwaters. The team explored innovative approaches to seaweed farming, including Dr. Arai’s method of enriching pond systems, which is being considered for implementation in Donkuru and Chirrayanam to enhance growth and productivity through location-specific strategies.
Beyond technical engagement, Dr. Bhavani Rao led an interactive session with women participants in Mangamaripeta, encouraging their involvement in upcoming training programs and highlighting the critical role of women in driving sustainable community development.
The initiative reflects the humanitarian vision of Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women and fostering self-reliance with dignity.
By combining global expertise with grassroots participation, the Neelamritam initiative continues to strengthen coastal resilience and expand pathways for women-led growth within the Blue Economy.
Advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 5: Gender Equality
Promotes women’s empowerment, equal participation, and leadership in economic, environmental, and community-driven initiatives.
SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
Supports sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic opportunities, particularly for women and coastal communities.
SDG 14: Life Below Water
Encourages sustainable use of marine resources, including seaweed cultivation and coastal ecosystem conservation.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Strengthens collaborations between academia, global organizations, governments, and communities to drive impactful, scalable solutions.
