National

The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), Mumbai, is pleased to announce a walk-in interview for the appointment of a Young Professional-II (YP-II) to handle the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) facility. This contractual appointment will be until 26th August 2026.

Post: Young Professional-II (YP-II)

No. of Vacancy: One

Place of Posting: ICAR-CIFE, Versova, Mumbai

Salary: Rs. 42,000/- per month (Consolidated)

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology/Marine Biotechnology/Bioinformatics/Fish Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Microbiology or related disciplines.

Desirable:

• Working knowledge and experience of ion torrent NGS platform/Bioinformatics.

Job Requirements:

• Preparation of DNA/RNA libraries using the ion chef system.
• Conducting NGS sequencing runs using the ion torrent NGS platform.
• Executing quality control procedures, troubleshooting technical issues, and generating high-quality sequencing data.
• Maintenance of the equipment.
• Assisting with documentation and report preparation.

Age: Minimum 21 years and Maximum 45 years

Interview Details:

• Date: 8th August 2024
• Time: 11:00 a.m.
• Venue: ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai

Application Process: Candidates must fill in the application (Annexure I) and bring it along with their Curriculum Vitae, one set of self-attested copies of testimonials and certificates, original experience certificates, original age proof, and one self-attested passport-size photograph for the interview.

Important Notes:

• The employment is purely temporary, and the incumbent shall not have any claim for a regular appointment under ICAR.
• Performance will be reviewed annually, and services may be terminated earlier if performance is deemed unsatisfactory.
• The decision of the Director, CIFE, will be final and binding in all respects.
• The Director, CIFE, reserves the right to cancel the interview/appointment before joining without assigning any reason.

For more details, visit website: www.cife.edu.in or contact us at +91 9969300125.

Hyderabad: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached assets with a book value of ₹19.11 crore and a market value of ₹71.61 crore. These assets belong to Nerella Venkata Rama Mohan Rao and others, linked to a case of cheating IDBI Bank with fake Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Fish Tank loans.

The attached properties include agricultural lands, commercial sites, and plots in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and a bank account balance of ₹15.55 lakh. These properties are registered in the names of aggregators, their family members, and benamis (fronts).

The investigation began after an FIR by the CBI in Visakhapatnam, accusing Nerella Venkata Rama Mohan Rao and 10 others of fraudulently taking KCC Fish Tank loans from IDBI Bank’s Rajahmundry Branch. They obtained loans totaling ₹311.05 crore in the names of 350 borrowers.

The ED found that 11 aggregators, including Nerella Venkata Rama Mohan Rao, conspired with IDBI Bank officials to get KCC Fish Tank loans using fake documents. The loans were taken in the names of employees, relatives, benamis, and farmers who were not eligible. The collateral securities’ value was also inflated with the help of valuers.

The loan amounts were diverted from borrowers’ accounts to the aggregators through cash withdrawals and bank transfers. The funds were used to buy properties in the names of the aggregators and their family members, invest in other businesses, and repay old loans. The properties bought with the fraudulent loan money were used as collateral to get more loans and The ED continues its investigation into the matter.

As the 52-day annual trawling ban ends on July 31 at midnight, fishermen’s unions are urging strict vigilance against unsustainable fishing practices. They allege that some fishing operators might resort to illegal methods.

“Trawling boats and gears should undergo strict checks to ensure banned fishing gears are not used,” said Antony Kurisinkal of Swathanthra Matsya Thozhilali Federation. Fisheries unions, particularly in the traditional sector, have consistently opposed pair trawling (using two boats in parallel) and high-voltage lighting systems to attract fish.

Reports have surfaced from places like Kollam, Kochi, Munambam, and Beypore about the use of trawler and dredger nets by some fishing boats. Fisheries department sources stated that ground-level personnel monitor such destructive practices. Although no complaints have been received so far, the department remains vigilant to prevent any activities that jeopardize sustainability.

Regular inspections are conducted, and boats found violating the rules are fined or face appropriate action. Fishermen pointed out that unsustainable methods are often carried out by workers from other States. “The department must intensify marine patrols and collaborate with the Coastal Police force to end such practices,” said Raju Asrayam, a fisherman from Alappuzha district.

Instances of juvenile fishing in several areas have also been reported and need to be curbed. Union leaders highlighted that the lack of boat inspections has led to cases where multiple boats operate under the same registration number from different harbors.

“These practices are not only harmful to the fisheries sector but also pose a threat to national security,” said Mr. Kurisinkal. To tackle these issues, fisheries authorities must conduct simultaneous checks at harbors, ensuring that all boats comply with regulations and contribute to sustainable fishing practices.

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India (GoI), under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), is actively promoting coastal aquaculture across all coastal States and Union Territories (UTs). The government has approved projects worth Rs. 179.50 crore under PMMSY, which includes a genetic improvement programme for Penaeus indicus, the establishment of Broodstock Multiplication Centres (BMC) for P. monodon, the construction of brackish water ponds over 1381 hectares, and the development of 20 shrimp hatcheries. Additionally, the DoF has sanctioned five BMC projects to develop shrimp broodstocks, further enhancing coastal aquaculture.

According to the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA), 5544 coastal aquaculture farms have been established in the last three years across various coastal States and UTs. The state-wise breakdown of these farms is detailed in the provided annexure.

The shrimp production from brackish water aquaculture has significantly increased, from 8.42 lakh tonnes in 2020-21 to 11.84 lakh tonnes in 2022-23. This rise in shrimp production has substantially impacted the seafood industry, with seafood exports increasing from Rs. 43,721 crores in 2020-21 to Rs. 63,969 crores in 2022-23. Notably, shrimp alone contributed Rs. 40,013 crores to the total seafood export value.

State-wise Number of Coastal Aquaculture Farms Established in the Last Three Years

1. Andhra Pradesh: 2181
2. Goa: 6
3. Karnataka: 2
4. Gujarat: 149
5. Kerala: 81
6. Maharashtra: 14
7. Odisha: 1913
8. Puducherry: 19
9. Tamil Nadu: 407
10. West Bengal: 772

Total: 5544

The PMMSY initiative’s focus on coastal aquaculture is a testament to the government’s commitment to boosting the seafood industry and supporting sustainable aquaculture practices. The establishment of these coastal aquaculture farms and the increase in shrimp production and exports highlight the positive impact of these efforts on the industry and the nation’s economy.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) celebrated its 18th Foundation Day today at its Prithvi Bhavan Headquarters, marking nearly two decades of significant contributions to Earth system sciences. Founded on July 27, 2006, MoES has been at the forefront of scientific research and services. The Ministry’s achievements span across all spheres of Earth system sciences: air (atmosphere), water (hydrosphere), land (lithosphere), solid earth (cryosphere), and life (biosphere), reflecting its commitment to scientific and technological progress.

To commemorate its 18th Foundation Day, MoES launched several significant publications:

1. Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE), Kochi: CMLRE released a catalogue entitled ‘Taxonomy and Systematics of Anomuran Crabs (Paguroidea, Chirostyloidea, and Galatheoidea) from the Indian EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone)’. This effort contributes to capacity building in deep-sea taxonomy and aligns with the marine biodiversity documentation and conservation efforts of the Ministry.
2. India Meteorological Department (IMD): IMD released the ‘Standard Operating Procedure on “Cyclone Warning in India”’ and the ‘Competency Framework for Monitoring and Forecasting High-impact Weather Events’. These documents will aid stakeholders in more efficient and timely disaster mitigation efforts.
3. National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa: NCPOR released a consolidated report on the 14th Indian Arctic Expedition (2023-24), including India’s maiden winter Arctic Expedition launched on December 18, 2023. The report provides in-depth information on scientific projects and field activities conducted under the Indian Arctic Expedition, organised by NCPOR. It will be available on NCPOR’s website.
4. MoES Newsletter: The first issue of the MoES Newsletter, envisaged to be a quarterly publication highlighting news, events, and updates from MoES, was also released.

These publications reflect MoES’s ongoing dedication to advancing scientific understanding and technological innovation in Earth system sciences.

In a significant development, Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal informed the Lok Sabha about the receipt of 29 new proposals from Andhra Pradesh under the Sagarmala Project. With an estimated value of Rs 3,300 crore, these initiatives focus on port development and fish landing centers. The financial aid and funding plans for the fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25 were also detailed.

Key Highlights:

1. Proposals and Funding:
   • Minister Sonowal confirmed receiving 90 project proposals from Andhra Pradesh and the Visakhapatnam Port Trust under the Sagarmala Project.
   • These proposals encompass detailed estimates, completion timelines, execution plans, and budget allocations for 2023-24 and 2024-25.
   • Among these, 29 new projects worth approximately Rs 3,300 crore from Andhra Pradesh focus on port development and fish landing centers.
2. Ongoing Projects:
   • Financial backing for 13 ongoing projects in Andhra Pradesh, valued at Rs 2,500 crore, was highlighted. These include Ro-Pax jetties, fishing harbors, and skill development initiatives.
3. Visakhapatnam Port Authority and IWAI Projects:
   • The Visakhapatnam Port Authority and IWAI are undertaking 36 projects worth Rs 4,600 crore in the state.
   • Of these, 22 projects worth Rs 2,530 crore have been completed, while 14 projects valued at Rs 2,070 crore are in various stages of implementation.
   • A new international cruise terminal at Visakhapatnam Port has also been established.
4. Financial Aid for Social Impact Projects:
   • Projects with high social impact but low return on investment receive financial aid under the Sagarmala Scheme.
   • The Minister urged the Andhra Pradesh government to restructure certain projects and explore funding options under PM GatiShakti.
5. Sagarmala Programme’s Broader Goals:
   • The Sagarmala Programme aims to modernize the maritime sector through Public-Private Partnerships, equity participation, and grant-in-aid assistance.
   • Two Centres of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding have been established, with the Visakhapatnam centre having trained over 10,000 students.
   • A recent approval for upgrading the Visakhapatnam Port Authority’s hospital to a 300-bed multi-disciplinary super specialty facility under PPP mode, costing Rs 222.43 crore, was also noted. This project is expected to rationalize medical expenditures and create job opportunities.

This extensive update underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure and promoting coastal community development through the Sagarmala Programme.

The recent budget released by the Telangana government has earmarked a substantial ₹19,080 crore for animal husbandry, highlighting the state’s commitment to strengthening its agriculture and allied sectors. While Telangana is not a coastal state, it boasts significant inland water resources, including rivers, reservoirs, and tanks, which hold immense potential for the fisheries sector. Here’s an in-depth look at how this budget could be strategically utilized to maximize benefits for inland fisheries in Telangana.

Enhancing Inland Fisheries Infrastructure

A major focus of the budget should be on improving inland fisheries infrastructure. Investments in the construction and modernization of fish ponds, hatcheries, and breeding centers are crucial. These facilities will help increase fish production, improve the quality of fingerlings, and support the overall growth of the sector. Additionally, establishing cold storage units and processing facilities near major fishing areas will ensure that fish products remain fresh, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing market value.

Promoting Advanced Aquaculture Techniques

Introducing and promoting advanced aquaculture techniques can significantly boost fish production in Telangana. Allocating funds for training programs on methods such as cage culture, biofloc technology, and integrated fish farming will help farmers adopt more efficient and sustainable practices. These techniques can optimize resource use, improve fish health, and enhance yields, thereby increasing the profitability of inland fisheries.

Strengthening Research and Development

Investment in research and development is vital for overcoming challenges in the inland fisheries sector. Establishing research centers focused on inland fisheries can lead to the development of better fish breeds, improved disease management, and innovative farming techniques. Collaborations with universities and research institutions will drive advancements in fish nutrition, water quality management, and breeding practices, ensuring the sector remains competitive and sustainable.

Expanding Training and Skill Development Programs

Empowering fish farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge is crucial for the sector’s growth. Budget allocations should support the expansion of training programs covering various aspects of inland fisheries, including pond management, feed formulation, and value-added processing. These initiatives will improve the efficiency and productivity of fish farmers, attract new entrants to the sector, and create employment opportunities.

Enhancing Market Access and Value Chain Development

Improving market access for fish products is essential for the growth of inland fisheries. Budget funds should be directed towards developing efficient supply chains, establishing fish markets, and creating online marketing platforms. This will help fish farmers reach wider markets and receive better prices for their products. Additionally, promoting value-added products, such as smoked or dried fish, can increase the economic value of the fish produced in Telangana.

Implementing Fishermen Welfare Schemes

Ensuring the welfare of fish farmers and their families is critical for the sustainability of the sector. Allocating funds towards comprehensive welfare schemes, including health insurance, educational scholarships for children, and financial support during off-seasons, will improve the quality of life for fishing communities. Providing access to affordable credit and subsidies for aquaculture inputs and equipment will empower fish farmers to invest in better technologies, enhancing their productivity and income.

Fostering Fisheries Cooperatives and SHG

Strengthening fisheries cooperatives and self-help groups (SHGs) can create a strong support network for fish farmers. Budget allocations should focus on the formation and capacity building of these groups, facilitating collective bargaining, better access to markets, and sharing of best practices. Training programs on cooperative management and financial literacy will empower these groups to operate more effectively and sustainably.

The strategic allocation of the fisheries budget within the ₹19,080 crore earmarked for animal husbandry in Telangana has the potential to transform the inland fisheries sector. By focusing on infrastructure development, advanced aquaculture techniques, research and development, skill enhancement, market access, welfare schemes, and cooperative support, the government can create a robust and resilient fisheries sector. This will not only boost the state’s economy but also ensure sustainable livelihoods for fishing communities, fostering overall development and prosperity in Telangana.

Aqua Doctor Solutions, led by Dr. Debtanu Barman, has been awarded a Rs. 25 lakh grant under the UPJA Program by the Startup Investment Committee (SIC) during the Pusa Krishi Incubation Program 2024. The selection took place during the SIC session held on the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of July 2024 at ICAR-IARI.

Dr. Barman, the Founder and CEO of Aqua Doctor Solutions and a seasoned Livelihood Project Trainer, brings over 12 years of expertise in sustainable aquaculture. His vision for the North Eastern Region of India, known for its high fish consumption, aims to transform it into the largest aqua hub in the near future. Aqua Doctor Solutions is dedicated to promoting sustainable fishery and aquaculture management practices nationwide.

Aqua Doctor

Dr. Barman’s impressive credentials include a Master’s degree in Aquaculture from Belgium and extensive experience in BMP-based farming models, biofloc aquaculture, RAS aquaculture, ornamental fish farming, and aquapreneurship development. His career highlights include leading roles in international business firms and NGOs, contributing to fish and shellfish farming projects across India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. His focus on empowering women and youth through aquapreneurship programs aligns with his motto, “Grow with Fish, Make Your Livelihood and Earn with Fish.”

Aqua Doctor Solutions’ innovative fisheries idea, which secured this significant grant, reflects Dr. Barman’s commitment to leveraging aquaculture for socio-economic upliftment and empowerment. With this funding, Aqua Doctor Solutions is poised to lead the North East Zone of FISHFED towards sustainable growth and development in the fisheries sector.

This grant marks a significant milestone for Aqua Doctor Solutions, heralding a new era of innovation and prosperity for the fisheries community in the North Eastern Region of India.

On July 23, 2024, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Merck Life Science Private Limited. The agreement aims to develop test kits for detecting foodborne pathogens and create food safety guidance documents and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The collaboration also includes the development of joint scientific projects, methods for microbial detection, workflow development, and providing subject matter guidance, regulatory consultation, scientific demonstrations, and training in the field of food safety.

The MoU was exchanged by Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, and Dr. Veena Panicker, Head of BioMonitoring at Merck Life Science Pvt. Ltd. The ceremony was attended by Dr. R. Dinesh, Director of ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala, Dr. Bindu J., Head of the Fish Processing Division, and other dignitaries during the inaugural event of the DST-SERB sponsored Kaaryashala on “Business Avenues in Fish Processing and Value Addition” organized by the Fish Processing Division and the ZTMC-Agribusiness Incubation Centre of ICAR-CIFT.

The team for this collaboration includes Dr. Zynudheen A. A, Head of the Quality Assurance & Management Division, Dr. Pankaj Kishore, Dr. Niladri Sekhar Chatterjee, Dr. Ranjit Kumar Nadella, Mr. Babu P.S., Mr. Ajith Chellapan, Mr. Padmaraj P.D., and Mrs. Bindu Joseph from ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, and Mr. Ashvinkmar J., Dr. Harmesh Sahay, Mr. Satheesh K. Nair, and Mr. Parag from Merck. A confidentiality agreement was also signed between ICAR-CIFT and Merck for the development of rapid testing kits.

ICAR-CIFT is the first research institute in India to sign an MoU with the Merck group, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of food safety technologies in the country.

Source: ICAR-CIFT

The Microbiology, Fermentation, and Biotechnology Division of ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, recently organized a three-day training program titled “Microbiological Analysis of Water Samples and Documentation as per IS 15185:2016 Requirements” for the staff of Kerala Water Authority (KWA). Held from July 17 to 19, 2024, this program aimed to support the Quality Control Labs of KWA in setting up microbiological testing laboratories and preparing them for NABL accreditation.

Staff from various Quality Control Laboratories across Kerala, including Trivandrum, Wayanad, Ernakulam, Kollam, Kottayam, Kannur, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Pathanamthitta, and the State Reference Institute in Ernakulam, participated in the training. The program provided an overview of microbiological testing activities as per NABL requirements, preparation and maintenance of documentation for NABL purposes, guidance on participating in Proficiency Testing and Inter-Laboratory Comparison programs, and testing of samples as per IS 15185:2016 standards. Additionally, the training covered the calculation of measurement uncertainty for biological scope

The event concluded with a valedictory function, featuring a presidential address by Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, and a welcome address by Dr. T. Raja Swaminathan, Convener and Head of the MFB Division. Dr. Toms C. Joseph, Convener and NABL Consultancy Cell In-charge, delivered the vote of thanks. The training program underscored ICAR-CIFT’s commitment to enhancing water quality and safety through rigorous scientific training and capacity building.

By equipping the KWA staff with essential skills and knowledge in microbiological analysis and documentation, ICAR-CIFT aims to ensure the highest standards of water quality across Kerala. This initiative is a significant step towards improving public health and environmental safety in the region.