The Seafood Expo Bharat (SEB) 2025 held in Chennai recently hosted a remarkable event: India’s first National Skill Olympiad on seafood value addition. Organised by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), this event aimed to enhance the skills of workers in the seafood export sector. The grand finale took place on July 1, 2025, and attracted top seafood talent from across the country.
The competition was intense, showcasing the expertise of trained professionals in seafood processing. The winner, Thanseer K R from Abad Foods in Malipuram, Kerala, received the top honour after a thrilling final round. The awards were presented by Hibi George Eden, a Member of Parliament and MPEDA Authority Member, alongside MPEDA Chairman D. V. Swamy.
The Olympiad is part of a larger effort by MPEDA to promote skill development in the seafood export industry. Prior to the grand finale, MPEDA conducted regional rounds along India’s East and West coasts. These rounds took place in Kochi on May 29 and in Visakhapatnam on June 5, where trained professionals were tested on their skills.
On June 30, ten semi-finalists competed for a place in the grand finale. The finalists were judged based on quality, hygiene, execution, and presentation. Balamurugan I from Edhayam Frozen Foods in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, secured the second position. The third place went to Sandya Rani Palaparthi from Coastal Cooperation Ltd in Kakinada, while D. Anitha from Sandhya Aqua Exports in Kakinada finished fourth.
The prize money awarded was significant, with the winner receiving Rs 1 lakh, the runner-up Rs 75,000, the third-place holder Rs 50,000, and Rs 25,000 for the fourth position. All finalists were also given medals and certificates for their achievements.
Hibi Eden praised the Olympiad as a pioneering initiative to elevate seafood value addition in India. MPEDA Chairman D. V. Swamy stated that this event marks a crucial step towards establishing India as a global hub for value-added seafood products. He also confirmed that the Olympiad will now be held annually, providing ongoing opportunities for skill enhancement in the industry.
The finale was attended by key stakeholders, including officials from fisheries departments, exporters, and international buyers. Attendees had the chance to taste seafood dishes prepared by the finalists, showcasing the talent and creativity present in the industry.
Seafood Expo Bharat 2025 is set to be a prominent platform for the seafood sector, highlighting India’s capabilities in safe and sustainable seafood production. The event will take place from July 1 to 3, 2025, in Chennai, offering a unique opportunity for exhibitors and visitors to engage in meaningful business interactions.
This expo aims to unite the entire seafood industry, from producers to technology providers, fostering vital trade relations and driving progress in areas such as traceability and quality improvement. With over 116 stalls and more than 3,000 delegates expected, SEB 2025 promises to be a vibrant exhibition of India’s seafood potential.
As India continues to face challenges in the seafood export market, events like the Seafood Skill Olympiad and Seafood Expo Bharat are essential for understanding trends and solutions in the sector. MPEDA has already trained over 2,500 workers in seafood value addition, and the aim is to double the exports of value-added seafood products by 2030. This commitment to skill development and innovation will play a key role in enhancing India’s global presence in the seafood industry.
