Panaji: Goa is set to inaugurate its inaugural aquatic referral laboratory in Old Goa, dedicated to comprehensive disease analysis in fish species. This cutting-edge facility aims to focus on the health assessment of cage-cultured fish, ensuring a robust and disease-free harvest. The project not only promises to revolutionize the local aquaculture industry but also stands as a critical asset for monitoring and safeguarding the overall well-being of aquatic fish.
The laboratory encourages active citizen participation, urging them to promptly alert scientists to any observed changes in marine fish health or appearance. Deepesh Priolkar, the fisheries director, emphasized the importance of local expertise and a well-equipped laboratory to investigate inexplicable fish deaths or parasitical growth on their bodies.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant unveiled this significant initiative during his annual budget speech earlier this year. The absence of a dedicated aquatic referral laboratory in the state has previously compelled the fisheries department to seek assistance from external institutions like the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO). The establishment of this new laboratory is poised to strengthen Goa’s ability to monitor and protect its aquatic resources while enhancing the health and productivity of the local aquaculture industry.
“We are in the process of preparing the detailed project report (DPR), which will be submitted to the state government. Upon approval and the release of funds, we anticipate establishing the laboratory within a year,” stated Priolkar, expressing optimism about swift progress. The DPR is expected to be approved within this financial year, paving the way for the laboratory’s establishment. The necessary modifications to existing rooms at Ela, Old Goa, are already in motion, with assistance sought from the Public Works Department (PWD). The selection of scientists for the laboratory will be conducted by the central government, further underscoring the collaborative efforts underway to propel this transformative project into action.
