In a report handed over to state fisheries minister J Mercykutty Amma on Tuesday, Kochi-based Central marine fisheries research institute (CMFRI) has recommended streamlining of the supply-distribution value chain in the fisheries sector that is largely driven by middle men. The report, which was prepared on the request of the minister, suggests ways to address the pricing system of fish sold in the state. Primarily the work of scientists of CMFRI and Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), the report also collated inputs from Matsyafed, MPEDA and fisheries officials. Several parts of the report are likely to be integrated into the existing fisheries-related policy instruments, including the proposed Kerala fish auction, marketing and quality control bill 2018. The need for a long-term system of pricing was realized against the backdrop of novel coronavirus pandemic when the fisheries department took a series of initiatives to streamline fishing and marketing activities. A fixed pricing system at landing centres was introduced wherein harbour or landing management committees (HMCs/LMCs) fixed the prices of each species every day avoiding auctions following Covid-19 restrictions. However, even if they worked, the arrangements needed strengthening to enhance viability of transactions. Moreover, long-term solutions are necessary to streamline the marketing system in the state considering all the existing rigidities. Among the key proposals, the report seeks to address the primary mode of price determination when fish arrive at harbours, landing centres and markets. It recommends that auctioning be devoid of any third-party intermediation. In view of Covid-19 and the imperfect fish marketing system, flexi-price system which guarantees minimum price for each species that satisfies prescribed quality criteria should be promoted on an experimental basis, it said. The report calls for a new digitized registration mechanism at harbours and landing centres. Virtual queue and a daily token system can also be introduced. The report says that HMCs or LMCs should be given autonomous powers in decision making and a food safety representative should be present. The other recommendations include setting up of new marketing cooperatives, Kisan credit card schemes for all fishermen and modernization of infra across fish value chain.