Late. M.K. Harischandra
Founder & Visionary Pioneer of Karnataka's Mechanized Fishing Industry
A Pioneering Legacy
Late. M.K. Harischandra was a visionary entrepreneur who transformed Karnataka's marine industry through innovation, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His journey from a young mechanical engineer to the founder of South India's most prestigious marine service provider is a testament to perseverance and engineering brilliance.
"I have served the fishing community with what little I could to ameliorate their condition and I am proud of my contribution to the mechanized fishing industry of Karnataka State."
- M.K. Harischandra
Company Information
Company Name
Marine Crafts and Equipments
Founder
M.K. Harischandra
Established
1973
Father's Name
Late Sri Rama Kodikanda
Address
N.S.R Wharf, New Fisheries Harbour
Mangalore – 575001
marinecrafts@yahoo.co.in
Educational Background & Qualifications
Academic Qualifications
- I.Sc (Madras University)
- L.M.E (Diploma in Mechanical Engineering)
Specialized Training & Certifications
Central Government Scholarship
One year training at Southern Railway Workshop (1959-1960)
Industrial Management Course
One-month Appreciation course conducted by Small Industries Service Institute, Bangalore (1965)
Marine Engineering Specialization
Six months course in Mechanised Fishing Boat Designing under a Norwegian Naval Architect at Indo-Norwegian Project, Government of India, Ernakulam
Professional Journey
Early Career (1960-1963)
Three years of invaluable experience at reputed workshops in Bombay, building foundational skills in mechanical engineering and marine technology.
South Kanara District Co-operative Fish Marketing Federation (1963-1973)
Ten transformative years as Engineer, coinciding with Karnataka's historic transition to mechanized fishing.
Major Accomplishments:
- • Led Karnataka's first large-scale mechanization program for fishing industry
- • Organized and developed workshops, service stations, and boat building yards
- • Supervised construction of 310 mechanised boats for the federation
- • Achieved record delivery of 100 mechanised boats in one year under Agriculture Refinance Corporation Scheme
- • Established workshops and service stations at Mangalore, Malpe, and Gangolli
Entrepreneurial Journey (1973 onwards)
Founded Marine Crafts and Equipments as a small-scale industrial unit, starting from scratch with support from friends and well-wishers.
Innovation & Design
Designed and improved models for mechanised fishing boats ranging from 20 feet to 60 feet
Production Achievement
Built over 350 mechanised fishing boats suitable for foreshore and deep sea fishing
Recognition & Institutional Impact
Due to reliable services rendered to various public and private institutions in and outside Karnataka, Marine Crafts became well recognized by prestigious organizations:
Customs Department
Official recognition for marine services
New Mangalore Port Trust
Trusted marine service provider
Karnataka Power Corporation
Specialized marine equipment services
Indian Coast Guard
Defense and security vessel services
College of Fisheries
Educational and research support
Fisheries Development Corporation
Industry development partnerships
Continuing Legacy
Today, Marine Crafts and Equipments continues to honor M.K. Harischandra's vision of excellence, innovation, and service to the fishing community. His pioneering spirit and commitment to quality remain the cornerstone of our operations, inspiring new generations of marine engineers and craftsmen.