Kerala, also known as “God’s Own Country”, is a state in the southern part of India that is known for its beautiful backwaters, serene beaches, and vibrant culture. But what many people may not know is that Kerala has a long-standing partnership with Norway, which has been instrumental in the development of the state’s fishing industry.
Recently, during a meeting between the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, and the Norwegian Ambassador to India, Hans Jacob Frydenlund, it was reiterated that the collaboration between Kerala and Norway has a history of more than 7 decades. This partnership has been focused on supporting the fisher folk communities of the state by providing them with advanced fishing methods and training.
Norway, a country known for its expertise in the fishing industry, has been a key player in the development of Kerala’s fishing sector. The collaboration between the two began in the 1950s when Norway provided technical assistance to the state’s fishery department. This assistance included training programs for the fisher folk communities in advanced fishing methods such as trawling, purse seining, and hook and lining.
These training programs have had a significant impact on the lives of the fisher folk communities in Kerala. They have not only helped them to improve their catch but also to increase their income. The use of advanced fishing methods has made their work more efficient and has also reduced the risk of accidents at sea. This has not only benefited the fisher folk but has also contributed to the overall growth of the state’s fishing industry.
Apart from training, Norway has also been actively involved in providing financial assistance to the state’s fishing sector. In 2018, the Norwegian government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Kerala to provide financial aid for the modernization of the state’s fishing harbors. This has helped in the development of infrastructure and has made it easier for the fisher folk to carry out their work.
The collaboration between Kerala and Norway has not only been limited to the fishing sector but has also extended to other areas such as education and healthcare. The Norwegian government has been providing scholarships to students from Kerala to pursue higher education in Norway. This has not only helped in the exchange of knowledge and ideas but has also strengthened the bond between the two countries.
In the healthcare sector, Norway has been supporting the state’s efforts in providing quality healthcare to its citizens. In 2019, the Norwegian government provided financial assistance for the construction of a state-of-the-art cancer center in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. This center is equipped with the latest technology and has been providing affordable cancer treatment to patients from all over the state.
The partnership between Kerala and Norway has been a shining example of how two countries can come together to work towards a common goal. The collaboration has not only benefitted the people of Kerala but has also strengthened the ties between the two nations. It has also set an example for other states in India to follow, showcasing the importance of international cooperation in achieving development goals.
The recent meeting between the Chief Minister of Kerala and the Norwegian Ambassador is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the two. It has also opened up new avenues for future collaborations in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable development.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Kerala and Norway has been a success story that has spanned over 7 decades. It has not only helped in the development of the state’s fishing industry but has also contributed to the overall growth and progress of the state. The partnership between the two countries is a shining example of how international cooperation can bring about positive change and pave the way for a better future.
