Lucknow: The ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR), Lucknow, had the honor of hosting the esteemed presence of the Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Government of India, George Kurian. The visit underscored the institute’s vital role in aquatic genetic resource conservation, fisheries research, and the empowerment of fish farmers.
Ministe Kurian was warmly welcomed by ICAR-NBFGR Director Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar, senior officials, and distinguished guests. Emphasizing the commitment to environmental conservation, a tree plantation program was organized. Following this, the foundation stone was laid for the ‘Exotic & Farmer Training Unit’ (EFTU), aimed at enhancing capacity building and technology transfer for fish farmers. Additionally, the newly constructed main entrance gate of the institute was inaugurated, symbolizing the institute’s ongoing developmental journey.
During his visit, Kurian extensively reviewed the institute’s state-of-the-art research and conservation centers, including the Ganga Aquarium, Live Fish Germplasm Resource Center, National Fish Museum & Repository, and advanced research laboratories. The ongoing efforts of the institute in fish biodiversity conservation and genetic resource management were highlighted, along with a review meeting on the institute’s initiatives.
The event also witnessed the launch of the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) website and the release of significant scientific publications, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to disease surveillance, biosecurity, and sustainable fisheries management. Addressing the gathering, Minister George Kurian emphasized the importance of fisheries research in advancing the Blue Economy, biodiversity conservation, and fish farmers’ empowerment through innovative and sustainable approaches. He lauded ICAR-NBFGR’s scientific advancements in genetic resource conservation and urged researchers to strengthen collaboration and coordination for holistic fisheries development.
ICAR-NBFGR Director Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar, in his address, outlined the institute’s remarkable achievements, research initiatives, and contributions to national fisheries development.
A scientific dialogue session was conducted towards the end of the event, focusing on policy collaboration, technological interventions, and future research directions. The visit reaffirmed the institute’s role as a center of excellence in fisheries research, bridging the gap between scientific innovations and their effective grassroots implementation. ICAR-NBFGR remains dedicated to advancing innovations in line with national fisheries policies for sustainable aquatic resource management and the economic upliftment of the fisheries sector.
