Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA)-Bhubaneswar and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore, jointly organised a two-day National Workshop on “Species Prioritization in Aquaculture and Genetic Improvement” at ICAR-CIFA, Kausalyaganga, on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar.

The workshop, which concluded on Tuesday, brought together about 50 policy makers, scientists from ICAR, hatchery owners, progressive fish farmers, and state fisheries departments across the country.

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The workshop deliberated over priority species across freshwater, brackish-water, cold-water, and marine aquaculture sectors to guide future research and development in Indian aquaculture.

This initiative is crucial for aligning genetic improvement strategies with national aquaculture goals.

“The workshop critically evaluated the current status of prioritised aquaculture species in terms of breeding, seed production, and culture practices, with special focus on their adoption and diversification among farmers and state fisheries departments.

This would help in aligning future R&D efforts with national and regional priorities.

Key dignitaries who took active part in the workshop included Dr J K Jena, DDG (Fisheries Science and Agri Education), ICAR; Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (Inland Fisheries), Ministry of Fisheries; Dr B K Behera, Chief Executive, NFDB; and Dr Devika Pillai, ADG (Inland Fisheries).

The meeting was also graced by Dr N P Sahu, Director, ICAR-CIFE; Dr Kajal Chakraborty, Director, ICAR-NBFGR; Dr Amit Pandey, Director, ICAR-CICFR; and Dr B Das, Director, ICAR-CIFRI.

Apart from stakeholders from ICAR institutions, state fisheries departments, and fisheries colleges, fish farmers and hatchery owners also took part in the deliberation aimed at shaping the future trajectory of Indian aquaculture and ensuring sustainable species development.

The programme was hosted by Dr P K Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA. Dr P C Das and Dr J K Sundaray overall coordinated the programme.