Haritha during the sail.
Aroor (Kochi): Many ships go fishing in the deep sea from India, but only a few women are in it. None of them is a captain. However, 'breaking the male dominance', KK Haritha, an Ezhupunna native, qualified as the captain of fishing vessels.
Haritha is the first woman in the country to pass the 'Skipper' (Captain) examination for appointment to Marine Fisheries Research Vessels under the Union Government. The result of the exam that was held on November 23 was released on the previous day.
She started her success stories in the ‘Mate of Fishing Vessels’ examination conducted by the Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical and Engineering (CIFNET). She sailed for 12 months on ships of the Union Government and private companies and received expert training. Also, she served as a Chief Officer of the Fisheries Survey of India.
Haritha attended the ‘Skipper’ test after sailing from Australia to the US aboard the Mumbai-based Synergy Mariners. After completing the Bachelor of Fisheries Science and Nautical Sciences (BFSC) in 2016, Haritha has been busy with her higher studies, international training and sailing. Haritha, who returned from a 20-day voyage, is set to sail again on December 10. She passed the exam amidst working. Haritha said the certificate would be issued within ten days.
Haritha is the daughter of Kaithakuzhi Kunjappan and Sudharma of the Ezhupunna gram panchayat here.