The ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) observed its 32nd annual day at its Kausalyaganga campus here on Monday.
CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology Director Prof Suddhasatwa Basu attending as chief guest gave away ICAR-CIFA annual awards. Coastal Aquaculture Authority, Chennai Member Secretary Dr C Gopal, former State Election Commissioner Sanjib Chandra Hota graced as other guests.
ICAR-CIFA has contributed immensely towards growth and development of the freshwater aquaculture sector. Giant freshwater prawn, lime for neutralization of exchangeable acidity of pond bottom soil, Pabda hatchery are some of its major contributions.
Besides research, the institute is also involved in livelihood development, empowerment of women, entrepreneurship development; training and skill development in aquaculture.
The institute is operating several flagship Central schemes like Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav, Farmer First Project and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Soil health card, Tribal Sub Plan, Scheduled Caste Sub Plan, Krishi Kalyan Aviyaan and NEH, informed Director Dr Bindu R Pillai.
The KVK Khordha has benefitted over 1,700 farmers and farm women, added Pillai.
ICAR-CIFA Senior Administrative Officer IB Kumar spoke on the occasion. The dignitaries released three publications of the institute to mark the annual day.