Dr Surabhi Rai, Joint Secretary (Marine Fisheries), visited the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) here to review its research, technology development and extension activities aimed at strengthening India’s freshwater aquaculture sector.
The visit highlighted the institute’s contribution to increasing fish production, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and improving the livelihoods of fish farmers through scientific innovations and technology dissemination.
Welcoming the Joint Secretary, ICAR-CIFA Director Dr P.K. Sahoo briefed her on the institute’s major research achievements, improved aquaculture technologies and outreach programmes. He outlined the institute’s efforts in supporting the sustainable growth of the fisheries sector through research-driven interventions.
During her interaction with scientists, Dr Rai discussed strategies to accelerate the adoption of advanced aquaculture technologies among fish farmers in India and neighbouring countries. She emphasised the need for skill development and capacity building to enhance productivity and profitability in the fisheries sector.
The Joint Secretary laid particular emphasis on developing a viable value chain for pearl farming and pearl marketing, describing it as a promising avenue for income generation. She also stressed the importance of ensuring sustainable production and availability of quality fish seed to support the sector’s long-term growth.
To strengthen digital learning and outreach, Dr Rai suggested linking the Matsya Setu video modules with the iGOT Karmayogi platform to facilitate wider access to fisheries-related training resources.
As part of her visit, she toured several research and demonstration facilities, including units dedicated to improved fish strains, fish seed production, ornamental fisheries and innovative aquaculture technologies. She reviewed ongoing research initiatives and interacted with scientists working on solutions to improve aquaculture productivity and sustainability.
The visit concluded with an interactive session on future priorities in research, technology transfer and capacity building. ICAR-CIFA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of the fisheries sector through scientific innovation, quality seed production and effective outreach programmes.
Dr J.K. Sundaray, Head of the Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Division at ICAR-CIFA, coordinated the programme.