Dr. Sipra Karmakar

https://doi.org/10.64823/ijter.2604014

This paper examines the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for conducting skill gap analysis in seafood processing and export units, with particular relevance to emerging seafood hubs where traditional workforce assessment methods remain prevalent. The seafood industry faces persistent challenges in maintaining product quality, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and sustainability, many of which stem from deficiencies in workforce skills. Conventional approaches are often slow, subjective, and incapable of delivering real-time insights. In contrast, AI enables data-driven, scalable, and predictive assessment of workforce competencies. The study proposes a multi-phase AI-driven framework that integrates machine learning, natural language processing, IoT-based monitoring, and predictive analytics to identify, measure, and address skill gaps across processing, logistics, compliance, and sustainability functions. Data sources include employee profiles, performance records, training histories, and industry benchmarks. AI tools such as computer vision for quality inspection, digital twins for process optimization, blockchain for traceability, and AR/VR platforms for training are analyzed for their role in enhancing workforce capability. Findings from a case study of a mid-sized seafood processing unit reveal significant deficiencies in advanced quality testing and export documentation knowledge. AI-based adaptive training improved compliance rates by 25%, reduced processing errors by 15%, and shortened export cycle time by 10%, demonstrating measurable operational gains. However, implementation challenges persist, including limited data availability, workforce resistance, digital literacy gaps, and high initial investment costs. The paper recommends the development of unified data platforms, change-management initiatives, scalable cloud-based AI solutions, and policy support through subsidies and skill-development programs. Overall, the study concludes that AI-enabled skill gap analysis can significantly enhance productivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness in seafood processing and export industries, providing a strategic pathway for modernization in an increasingly technology-driven global market.

https://doi.org/10.64823/ijter.2603002

Given that Odisha is a coastal state, the seafood industry is one of its most promising industries. With 8.16 lakh MT of fish produced in 2019–20, Odisha is the fourth-largest fish-producing state in India, according to the Information & Public Relations report from 2021. It made about 6% of all the fish that was produced in India. A large number of business establishments participate in this broad industry by processing seafood, exporting it to overseas markets and generating foreign exchange for the state. At this critical juncture, the sector cannot afford to ignore practices that prioritize environmental, economic, and social sustainability in order to enhance capacity building and make efficient use of land. Thus, the importance of sustainability is realized. Sustainable seafood is produced by fisheries and aquaculture businesses that reduce their negative effects on the environment, provide safe and equitable working conditions, and promote economic gains and livelihoods along the whole supply chain. The current study intends to investigate the growth trends of the seafood sector in the state in order to comprehend the business outcome and various challenges faced by companies operating in Odisha. For that reason, ten business establishments in Odisha are taken into account. The study's goal is to investigate how the state's seafood industry is changing through a strategic approach that includes SWOT analysis, growth trend analysis, and actions taken to achieve sustainability. Primary data, which was gathered via questionnaires and interviews, as well as secondary data, were utilized and interpreted in the present research work.