Union Minister Highlights Importance of Biosecurity in Fisheries:
Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri G. Kurian, inaugurated the symposium "Aquatic Animal Diseases: Emerging Challenges and Preparedness" at the ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. The event is a crucial part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF), held from February 12-15, 2025, under the theme "Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific."
Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), ICAR, emphasized the need for robust biosecurity measures in aquaculture. He highlighted key initiatives like the NSPAAD Phase-II and INFAR projects, which focus on disease prevention and control. He also stressed the importance of early disease detection, improved diagnostics, and effective vaccination programs to maintain fish health and ensure sustainable aquaculture practices.
The Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, underscored the critical role of fisheries in economic growth and livelihood generation. He pointed out that disease outbreaks often stem from the movement of live aquatic animals and called for early detection mechanisms and strict biosecurity protocols to safeguard the industry’s sustainability.
Institutionalizing Disease Monitoring in Aquaculture
The Chief Executive, NFDB, advocated for establishing systematic fish disease surveillance programs in India. He suggested creating disease-free zones in key aquaculture regions to minimize infections and strengthen national aquaculture policies.
Global Cooperation for Aquatic Biosecurity:
Dr. Eduardo Leano from NACA, Thailand, shared insights into global disease surveillance programs and raised concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquaculture. He emphasized the need for an internationally coordinated effort to enhance aquatic biosecurity and prevent emerging threats.
India Hosts AFAF for the Second Time: The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a premier international event organized every three years by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur. The 14th edition is being jointly hosted by ICAR, the Department of Fisheries (Government of India), and the AFS Indian Branch (AFSIB). This marks the second time India is hosting this prestigious forum, with the 8th AFAF previously held in Kochi in 2007.
