FAO India formulates strategies to tackle AMR in aquaculture

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in India, in partnership with FAO Regional Asia Pacific (FAO RAP), the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), and the National Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture (NaCSA), recently organized a stakeholder workshop. Held under the EU Regional AMR Tripartite Project, the workshop aimed to strengthen efforts to contain antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the aquaculture sector

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in India, in collaboration with FAO Regional Asia Pacific (FAO RAP), the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), and the National Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture (NaCSA), recently organized a stakeholder workshop under the EU Regional AMR Tripartite Project to strengthen efforts in containing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the aquaculture sector.

The workshop brought together over 50 participants, including representatives from the Andhra Pradesh State Aquaculture Development Authority, Department of Fisheries, small-scale aquaculture farmers, exporters, public sector institutions, and industry associations involved in aquaculture production.

Building on earlier consultations held in Visakhapatnam and Kochi in 2024, the workshop emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between public and private stakeholders to reduce antibiotic use and promote disease prevention. A key focus was the “Promotion of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Tackling AMR in Aquaculture,” with discussions centering on how partnerships can support small-scale farmers within organized aquaculture societies.

Participants explored strategies to mainstream BMPs throughout the value chain, highlighting traceability, food safety, and sustainability. The potential of cluster farming was also discussed, showcasing how collective approaches can boost resource efficiency, disease management, and farmers’ access to inputs, services, and markets. Furthermore, farmer societies were recognized as vital platforms for shared learning, coordination, and adherence to certification and traceability standards.

The workshop concluded with a consensus on the importance of sustained stakeholder engagement, development of collaborative models, and scaling successful interventions. As AMR continues to threaten animal and public health, fostering inclusive and sustainable public–private partnerships remains a key priority for advancing India’s aquaculture sector.