The ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture observed the 19th National Fish Farmers’ Day at its Kausalyaganga campus here on Wednesday to commemorate scientists Dr KH Alikunhi and Dr HL Chaudhury, who had successfully induced bred one of the carp species on this day in 1957. The scientists’ innovation changed the face of Indian aquaculture.
Union Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Pratap Chandra Sarangi gracing as chief guest appreciated the CIFA for its service to the nation and urged the scientists to bring innovations for the small scale aqua farmers. He also informed that the Government is committed for aquaculture development through the recently announced Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
The Minister called upon the scientists to develop viable organic fish farming models and water efficient aquaculture methods to increase the productivity and conserving the environment at the same time. He motivated the farmers to adopt advanced scientific methods to produce more fish and achieve self-sufficiency.
Centurion University of Technology and Management Vice-Chancellor Prof Haribhandu Panda and Falcon Marine Exports Private Limited director Priyanka Mohanty talked about various aspects of aquaculture development.
ICAR-CIFA Director (Acting) Dr Bindu R Pillai briefed the major achievements of the institute during the last 3 decades towards the freshwater aquaculture sector. She also outlined the recent inventions of the CIFA.
Around 90 fish farmers from Odisha and other parts of the country were present. Thirteen fish farmers were felicitated for their contributions to the development of freshwater aquaculture.