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HomePosts Tagged "Animal Husbandry and Dairying"
Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh to launch Marine Fisheries Census Operations, Aqua Insurance in major sector push.

The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is organizing a “Coastal States Meet – 2025” on 28th April 2025, at Hotel Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai under the chairmanship of Union Minister, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj. Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj and George Kurian, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs will also participate in the event.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh will inaugurate and lay the foundation for key projects for 7 coastal states and UTs with a total outlay of Rs.255.30 crores under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), underscoring the commitment of the government for advancing the fisheries sector in the coastal states & UTs. He will also launch a set of key initiatives aimed at strengthening marine fisheries and promoting sustainable practices including Marine Fisheries Census Operations, Turtle Excluder Device (TED) project and release of Standard Operating procedure for Vessel Communication and Support System.

On this occasion, certificates will also be distributed to outstanding Cooperatives, FFPOs, fisheries start-ups, and climate-resilient coastal fishing villages. As part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY), beneficiaries will also receive Aqua Insurance certificates and Kisan Credit Cards (KCC). Notably, the government has introduced Aqua Insurance for the first time, offering dedicated financial protection to aquafarmers. This landmark initiative ensures targeted insurance coverage, digital accessibility, and focused support for marginalized communities in the fisheries sector.

The Coastal States Meet 2025 will also feature key technical sessions including Strengthening Marine Fisheries Governance: Integrating Marine Fisheries Regulation Acts (MFRAs), Monitoring, Control & Surveillance (MCS), and Sea-Safety; Model Mariculture SOPs; Standard Operating Procedure of the Vessel Communication and Support System (VCSS); Export Promotion – Processing, Value Chain & Quality Improvements; and Promotion of Traceability and Certification in Marine Capture Fisheries. These sessions aim to offer practical policy insights and technical guidance to strengthen marine fisheries, ensure safety, promote sustainable mariculture, and improve export capabilities. In addition, the event will host an exhibition showcasing innovative technologies, products, and initiatives in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, fostering knowledge exchange and highlighting best practices.

This meet serves as a vital platform for addressing region-specific challenges, promoting modern, eco-friendly approaches tailored to coastal ecosystems, and enhancing livelihood opportunities, productivity, and long-term economic development in the fisheries sector.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh to launch

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Animal Health, India, Poultry


The meeting implements Three-Pronged strategy of biosecurity measures, strengthened surveillance and mandatory registration of Poultry farms.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying held a high-level meeting in New Delhi to discuss the recent outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the country. Chaired by Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary DAHD, the meeting brought together scientific experts, poultry industry representatives and policymakers to review the current situation of avian influenza and explore strategies to contain the disease and prevent its spread.

A three-pronged strategy to prevent and control Bird Flu has been decided by DAHD in consultation with the stakeholders. It encompasses stricter biosecurity Measures wherein poultry farms must enhance hygiene practices, control farm access and follow stringent biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of infection, Strengthened Surveillance and Mandatory Registration of Poultry Farms to enhance disease tracking and control (All poultry farms must register with state animal husbandry departments within a month. The government has urged poultry industry stakeholders to ensure 100 per cent compliance with this directive).

Speaking at the meeting, Alka Upadhyaya emphasised, “Protecting our poultry sector is critical for food security and rural livelihoods. Strict biosecurity, scientific surveillance, and responsible industry practices are essential in our fight against Bird Flu.” Additionally, Secretary DAHD stated the need for developing a predictive modelling system for early warning and environmental surveillance which would enable proactive disease detection and response, minimising the risk of outbreaks and protecting the poultry industry. DAHD has permitted the use of the H9N2 (Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza) vaccine, developed by ICAR-NIHSAD, Bhopal, which is now available commercially. 

A national study will evaluate the vaccine’s effectiveness of LPAI vaccination. The meeting also extensively discussed the possibility of allowing the use of a vaccine against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in India.  Representatives from the poultry industry urged the government to explore vaccination as a strategy to prevent further economic losses in the sector. Scientific experts highlighted that currently available HPAI vaccines do not provide sterile immunity but only reduce virus shedding. Given these complexities, it was agreed that further scientific evaluation is needed before making a policy decision. The meeting recommended conducting detailed science-based assessments to determine the feasibility of HPAI vaccination in India. Research efforts have also been initiated to develop an indigenous HPAI vaccine following global best practices.

The meeting implements Three-Pronged strategy of

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India

States propose 5-Hectare limit, Increased Subsidies, and National Committee to boost sustainable shrimp aquaculture.

Union Secretary, Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, visited ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai and chaired the Review meeting of the Saline Water Shrimp Aquaculture in the Sates of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh through Video Conference in Mumbai. This meeting aimed to tap the potential of saline land resources for aquaculture, generating employment and livelihood opportunities. Likhi interacted with farmers from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh for insights and on ground challenges and gaps faced by them in saline water aquaculture.

State-Specific Updates on Saline Aquaculture and Shrimp Farming

During the meeting, State Fisheries Officials provided updates on the status, progress, and key challenges in promoting inland saline and shrimp aquaculture. Uttar Pradesh highlighted the vast potential of inland saline aquaculture, covering 1.37 lakh hectares in districts such as Mathura, Agra, Hathras, and Raebareli, with significant initiatives supported under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Rajasthan reported growing momentum in shrimp farming in salt-affected districts like Churu and Ganganagar, with approximately 500 hectares dedicated to the cultivation of Penaeus vannamei, milkfish, and pearl spot. Additionally, a diagnostic lab has been established in Churu under PMMSY. Punjab shared its achievements in expanding shrimp farming in southwestern districts such as Muktsar Sahib and Fazilka, bolstered by the Blue Revolution and PMMSY schemes. Notable developments include a 30-tonne cold storage and ice plant and a dedicated training centre. Haryana demonstrated significant progress in saline aquaculture, having achieved a production of 13,914 tons with an investment of Rs 57.09 crore under PMMSY. Furthermore, ICAR-CIFE shared valuable best practices and technical insights to enhance the productivity and sustainability of saline water aquaculture.

In the states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, approximately 58,000 hectares of saline area has been identified, yet only around 2,608 hectares is currently being utilized. There is huge potential to convert these saline affected areas into aquaculture hubs. These saline-affected lands, often unsuitable for traditional agriculture, hold immense potential to be transformed from wastelands to wealth lands. India, being the second-largest producer of cultured shrimp globally, earns over 65 per cent of its seafood export value from shrimp alone. Despite the country’s vast potential in brackish water and shrimp aquaculture particularly in saline-affected areas, inland saline aquaculture resources continue to remain significantly underutilised.

Challenges Faced by Farmers in Saline Water Aquaculture

In the review, farmers from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh raised several challenges that are impacting the viability and sustainability of their saline water aquaculture operations. They highlighted issues of high setup costs, inadequate subsidy coverage, and the restrictive 2-hectare area limit for saline water aquaculture. Other significant concerns included fluctuating salinity levels, high land lease rates, reductions in subsidies, and the lack of locally available, high-quality seed.

Proposals for Strengthening the Sector and Collaborative Efforts

In response to these challenges, the states called for enhanced central support to strengthen the sector. Key proposals included raising the unit cost for aquaculture operations to Rs 25 lakh, increasing the area limit from 2 hectares to 5 hectares, and enhancing subsidies for polythene lining. The establishment of an Integrated Aqua Park in Sirsa and improvements to marketing channels were also recommended to ensure better price realization and long-term sustainability. The Department of Fisheries emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between the states, ICAR, and other agencies to develop strategies for utilizing saline land resources more effectively for aquaculture. A focus was placed on organizing awareness campaigns with ICAR, State Fisheries Departments, and other stakeholders to promote shrimp consumption in northern India, gap analysis for development of potential clusters and expand cultivation area in the identified 25 districts of the four States. States were encouraged to leverage Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to disseminate technical knowledge, identify new areas for saline aquaculture, and conduct outreach-based research.

States propose 5-Hectare limit, Increased Subsidies, and

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

 Additionally, Fish Parlor was inaugurated to promote fish consumption and improve market access for fishery products.

The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, is organised a special nationwide campaign for registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) along with expediting registration approvals and mobilising applications from eligible stakeholders for availing various benefits provided under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY) from 14th to 22nd February 2025.

During the outreach program Aquapark and Research Centre project in Madhya Pradesh was announced at a project cost of Rs 25 crore, in addition a Fish Parlor was inaugurated to promote fish consumption and improve market access for fishery products.

As a part of this effort, the Department of Fisheries organized Mobilization Camp for registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) on 20th February 2025 in Depalpur, District Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The event was graced by George Kurian, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Minority Affairs along with Narayan Singh Panwar, Minister, Fisheries welfare and Department of Fisheries, Madhya Pradesh, Shankar Lalwani, Member of Parliament (MP), Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and Ravi Kuma, Director Department of Fisheries, Indore.  This effort in collaboration with State/UT Fisheries Departments, the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and Common Service Centers (CSCs), focuses on expediting the registration process, enhancing approval rates, and encouraging eligible stakeholders to avail themselves of the numerous benefits under PMMKSSY, such as credit facilitation, aquaculture insurance and performance grants. In Madhya Pradesh 60,426 people have registered on the NFDP Portal, till date 33,820 applications have been approved and 25,402 applications are in progress.

1500 Fisheries cooperative, fishermen and entrepreneurs participated in the camp. The Registration Outreach Program concluded with a strong call for active participation from all stakeholders.

 Additionally, Fish Parlor was inaugurated to promote

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, Animal Health, Animal Husbandry, Dairy, India, Live Stock

 Clonclave focus on enhancing vaccination programs, improving livestock health, building resilient supply chains for pandemic preparedness, strengthening pandemic responses and advancing disease surveillance.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying in collaboration with Indian Immunologicals Limited and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) organised a “Conclave on Pandemic Preparedness & Vaccine Innovation” in Hyderabad on 10th January 2025.

The conclave was inaugurated by Prof. Dr Vinod K Paul, Member-Health, NITI AAYOG as the Chief Guest. Speaking on the occasion he emphasised the need to bolster veterinary infrastructure to effectively address future pandemics. This includes enhancing diagnostic facilities to ensure early detection and rapid response to emerging diseases. He also underscored the importance of establishing advanced platforms for the development and production of next-generation animal vaccines, which are crucial for preventing the spillover of zoonotic diseases and safeguarding both animal and human health. He said that strengthening these critical components aligns with the broader goal of building a resilient healthcare framework under the One Health approach.

Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, stated that the Government needs to spend more on animal health for better productivity and also improve supply chain and cold chain systems to make the last mile delivery effective.

Dr Abhijit Mitra, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, in his address emphasised upon the need to ensure vaccine security and pre-qualifications for animal vaccines.

The Conclave aimed to foster a deeper understanding of various aspects of “One Health,” focusing on enhancing vaccination programs, improving livestock health, building resilient supply chains for pandemic preparedness, strengthening pandemic responses, advancing disease surveillance, and streamlining vaccine testing, fostering artificial intelligence in healthcare, cell and gene therapy vaccines and regulatory pathways for approval.

 Clonclave focus on enhancing vaccination programs, improving

AgroPolicy, Animal Health, Finance, India, Live Stock, Schemes - Govt

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying also released ‘Revolutionizing Animal Health: Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines and Crisis Management Plan during the event.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched the Pandemic Fund Project on “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response” in New Delhi.  The Pandemic Fund Project is a $25 Million initiative funded by the G20 Pandemic Fund.

The “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response” initiative will play a key role in reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases that can spread from animals to humans. The Pandemic Fund Project will focus on enhancing India’s animal health systems, thereby fortifying the country’s defences against future pandemics. It will be implemented in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Bank.

On this occasion the Union Minister also released two important documents aimed at strengthening animal health management in India:

Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines (SVTG): A comprehensive document that outlines best practices for veterinary care, aimed at improving the overall health and productivity of livestock and supporting to the national action plan for Anti-microbial resistance.

Crisis Management Plan (CMP) for Animal Diseases: A critical resource that will provide a framework for managing and responding to outbreaks of animal diseases, ensuring rapid containment and mitigation.

These documents will serve as vital tools for veterinarians, policymakers, and field officials, helping to ensure timely and effective responses to animal health crises and improving disease management protocols.

In his address Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the importance of the Livestock Sector as it contributes to the social and economic upliftment of the society.  He stated that the livestock sector has shown immense growth in the last 9 years with the implementation of many schemes of the department. Through National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP), the department is aiming to control and eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis from the country.  He said that so far, a total of 90.87 crores FMD vaccines and 4.23 crore vaccines for Brucellosis have been administered. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is also planning for creation of FMD Disease Free Zones in nine states of the country.

 He also said that the Pandemic Fund supports the existing initiatives of the department through enhancing disease surveillance including genomic and environmental surveillance for early warning, laboratory infrastructure development, cross-border collaboration, and will create a more integrated system for monitoring and managing zoonotic diseases.

Further, in his address the Union Minister emphasised on the importance of adopting a One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health in preventing and managing health crises. With most recent public health emergencies stemming from animal origins, the project reinforces the need to address zoonotic risks to protect both human and animal populations from future pandemics.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

The guidelines will facilitate import of high-quality seed materials or germplasm from abroad, enabling domestic multiplication for ensuring farmers have access to quality seed stock.

In a significant move, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has notified the ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India’. This initiative aims to bolster the development of seaweed enterprises as a key economic driver for coastal villages, ensuring livelihood sustainability and socio-economic upliftment of the fisher community while upholding environmental protection and biosecurity concerns at the core of all actions.

The guidelines will facilitate import of high-quality seed materials or germplasm from abroad, enabling domestic multiplication for ensuring farmers have access to quality seed stock. Currently, the growth of seaweed enterprises in India faces the challenge of seed availability in sufficient quantity for the commercially valuable species, and quality degradation in the seed materials of Kappaphycus, the most commonly farmed seaweed species.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya sampada Yoiana (PMMSY), the flagship scheme of Government of India envisaged to revolutionize the seaweed sector, aiming to increase seaweed production of the country over 1.12 million tonnes by 2025. Under the scheme, the Government have taken many steps to strengthen the seaweed farming activities the prominent of which is establishment of Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu with the total investment of Rs 127.7 crore.

The guidelines outline a process for importing live seaweed, including a clear regulatory framework for the import of live seaweed, ensuring transparency and accountability, strict quarantine procedures to prevent introduction of pests and diseases, risk assessment to identify potential biosecurity concerns and post-import monitoring for strengthening ongoing monitoring and risk assessment.

This guideline will encourage responsible cultivation of seaweed, ensuring environmental sustainability and economic growth. Further, the import of new seaweed strains will stimulate research and development, leading to enhanced seaweed production of variety of seaweed species belonging to red, brown and green algae, paving way for development of downstream seaweed processing and value addition enterprises which will yield additional livelihoods in the villages while bolstering the overall export of the country.

As per the guidelines, for import of live seaweed into India, the importers may submit a detailed application to the Department of Fisheries which will be reviewed by the National Committee on Introduction of Exotic Aquatic Species into Indian Waters. Upon approval, the Department will issue an import permit within four weeks, facilitating the import of high-quality seaweed germplasm.

The guidelines thus provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for the import of live seaweeds into India, ensuring that the process is conducted safely, smoothly and responsibly. Department of Fisheries, Government of India encourage stakeholders, such as researchers, entrepreneurs, and farmers, to take advantage of these new opportunities and contribute to the growth of the seaweed industry.

The guidelines will facilitate import of high-quality

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, India

The app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile app at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar. Developed by ICAR-CIFA with support from the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.

The “Rangeen Machhli” app provides multilingual information on popular ornamental fish species in eight Indian languages, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether hobbyists are seeking guidance on fish care or farmers looking to diversify their breeds, the app offers comprehensive details on care, breeding, and maintenance practices. One of its key features is the “Find Aquarium Shops” tool, which allows users to locate nearby aquarium shops through a dynamic directory updated by shop owners, promoting local businesses and connecting users with reliable sources for ornamental fish and aquarium-related products. In addition, the app includes educational modules for both newcomers and professionals in the ornamental fish industry. The “Basics of Aquarium Care” module covers essential topics such as types of aquariums, fishes, water filtration, lighting, feeding, day to day maintenance, while the “Ornamental Aquaculture” module focuses on breeding, rearing of different ornamental fish. The app can be downloaded from the Google Play store from this link https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ornamentalfish

During his address, Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the increasing importance of the ornamental fisheries sector, stating that the Ministry is placing a strong emphasis on its development, recognizing the sector’s potential for generating employment and contributing to the economy. He also stated that aquarium hobby has to be promoted in a bigger way in the country.

The app is designed to meet the

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India

The total fish production in the North- Eastern States increased from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to highest production of 6.04 lakh tonnes during FY 2022-23.

The Inland fish production in North- Eastern States recorded an average annual growth rate of 5.38 per cent during last nine years i.e. from 2014-15 to 2022-23. The total fish production in the North- Eastern States increased from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to highest production of 6.04 lakh tonnes during FY 2022-23.

Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying implemented Blue Revolution, Centrally Sponsored Scheme from 2015-16 to 2019-20 for development of fisheries and aquaculture in the country and the project worth Rs 391.95 crore were sanctioned for North- Eastern States. To consolidates the success and achievements of Blue Revolution, in the year 2020-21, the Government of India launched another flagship schemes namely Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with an investment of Rs 20,050 crores for a period of 5 years with effect from Financial Year 2020-21 to 2024-25 for holistic development of fisheries and aquaculture.

 PMMSY aims to enhance the fish production through establishment of new freshwater finfish hatcheries, construction of rearing ponds, grow-out ponds with inputs, biofloc ponds, Re-circulatory Aquaculture System (RAS), ornamental fish rearing unit, providing boats and nets for traditional fishermen etc. Minimum 10 per cent of the annual allocation under the scheme has been earmarked for North Eastern Region.

Under PMMSY, total projects with outlay of Rs 1391.62 crore have been approved for NER States during 2020-21 to 2023-24 (till date).

Besides, to promote easy access to credit for aqua-culture farmers, fish farms and fishing activities the Government of India in 2018-19 extended the facility of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to fisher and fish farmers to help them meet their working capital needs. So far, a total of 1, 70, 674 KCC with a loan amount of Rs. 1893.43 crore have been issued including 16,870 KCC in NER.

This information was given by Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying in a written reply in Lok Sabha

The total fish production in the North-

AgroPolicy, Animal Husbandry, Dairy, India, Poultry

 The visit aims to promote exports of EU agricultural food and beverage products to India, facilitating its presence in the Indian market while enabling matchmaking between the businesses of both sides.

European Union (EU) Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski will be visiting India on 7-9 December 2023, leading a business delegation of 50+ EU company representatives from the agri-food sector. During his visit, he would be inaugurating the EU Pavilion at the two prestigious exhibitions in New Delhi, SIAL and VINEXPO on 7th December, which will host a wide array of agri-food products from across Europe, offering an immersive experience into the quality, safety, authenticity, and sustainability standards of European food and beverages. The visit and the participation at the exhibition aim to promote exports of EU agricultural food and beverage products to India, facilitating its presence in the Indian market while enabling matchmaking between the businesses of both sides.

During his visit, Commissioner Wojciechowski will hold bilateral meetings with the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar, as well as the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, and with Niti Aayog, the policy think tank of the Government of India. It will be an occasion to exchange on the agricultural policy of the EU and India and raise the market access challenges faced by EU operators on the Indian market.

The EU is the Region of Honour of SIAL and VINEXPO 2023 with the EU Pavilions forming part of the ‘More than food’ campaign, with which the EU is actively promoting outstanding European agricultural products to Indian businesses and consumers. Commissioner Wojciechowski will participate in the opening ceremony of the fairs. The 50+ businesses accompanying the EU Commissioner will not only showcase their products to the Indian buyers from the food distribution, retail, manufacture, and hospitality industries at SIAL and VINEXPO, but will also explore business and match-making opportunities with their Indian counterparts. The EU Pavilions will play a crucial role in creating excellent, centralised matchmaking opportunities for Indian buyers, retailers, and distributors. They are meant to lead to the establishment of new business partnerships that are mutually beneficial for both EU companies and their Indian counterparts. The direct interactions during the sessions will also contribute to a better understand-ing of the specific needs and preferences of the Indian market. This knowledge exchange can contribute to in- formed decision-making and enhance the potential for successful market entry.

“At the EU Pavilions, we offer an immersive journey into the world of European agricultural products, focusing on quality, safety, authen-ticity, and sustainability. We aim to inform and inspire Indian buyers, retailers, and distributors through cooking demonstrations, information sessions, and tastings over three exciting days. The EU Pavilions also offer excellent match-making opportunities for Indian buyers, with representatives from more than 50 European companies attending from various food and drink sectors,” Janusz Wojciechowski European Union Commissioner for Agriculture.

 The visit aims to promote exports of

Acquaculture, Agro Universities, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

According to the study, a resounding 91.1 per cent of the 135 fish stocks assessed in 2022 were deemed healthy, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts to maintain the sustainability of its marine fisheries.

Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying unveiled a study report “Marine Fish Stock Status of India 2022” by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute during the ‘Sagar Parikrama phase VIII at Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying unveils ICAR-CMFRI’s study on Marine Fish Stock Status Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying unveils ICAR-CMFRI’s study on Marine Fish Stock Status.

The report titled ‘Marine Fish Stock Status of India 2022’ reveals that India’s marine fish stock is healthy and sustainable. According to the study, a resounding 91.1 per cent of the 135 fish stocks assessed in 2022 were deemed healthy, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts to maintain the sustainability of its marine fisheries. The report also highlighted the substantial reduction in unsustainable practices, with just 4.4 per cent of the stocks facing overfishing.

 Rupala also released ICAR-CMFRI’s ‘Good Management Practices in Seaweed Farming’ publication. ICAR-CMFRI has identified 333 prospective seaweed farming sites covering 23,950 hectares, aimed at horizontal expansion of seaweed cultivation. India has a seaweed production potential of 9.88 million t wet weight per year while the current production stands at merely 52,107 t wet weight per year. Seaweed farming has the potential to provide revenue up to Rs. 13.28 lakhs per hectare in a year on a dry weight basis.

Rupala visited the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI, Kerala. The Minister emphasized offshore cage farming, focusing on larger cages capable of accommodating lakhs of juveniles. Shri Rupala emphasized the need for expansion to offshore waters.

 Rupala urged ICAR-CMFRI to lead research and development efforts for advanced cages and expand seed production technologies for finfishes in coastal states using PPP mode. He also highlighted the potential of Pearl Oyster production and urged ICAR-CMFRI to take a proactive role in scaling up production.

According to the study, a resounding 91.1

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

The delegation also discussed various issues and opportunities for cooperation in the aquaculture and fisheries sector

A high-level delegation led by Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, along with Dr L. Murugan, Minister of State, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries and other senior officers is on a visit to Norway for strengthening the bilateral cooperation between India and Norway in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. After attending the Opening Ceremony of the Aqua Nor 2023 trade show at Trondheim Spektrum, Klostergata, which is one of the world’s largest trade shows for aquaculture technology and innovation, the delegation visited AquaGen, a research-oriented breeding company that develops, manufactures, delivers genetic starter material and fertilised eggs to the global aquaculture industry. Parshottam Rupala, and Dr. L. Murugan, discussed opportunities for joint collaboration with Knut Roflo, CEO, AquaGen.  

Parshottam Rupala and Dr. L. Murugan interacted with the Indian participants at the exhibition, who displayed their products and services related to aquaculture and fisheries. Parshottam Rupala appreciated the efforts of the Indian exhibitors in promoting the quality and diversity of Indian aquaculture and fisheries products in the global market. The delegation also discussed various issues and opportunities for cooperation in the aquaculture and fisheries sector.

The delegation also discussed various issues and

AgroPolicy, Animal Health, Finance, India, Live Stock, Schemes - Govt

Scheme to act as a key enabler and risk mitigation measure for lending institutions and enabling collateral free funding to livestock sector.

Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the Credit Guarantee Scheme under Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) to strengthen credit delivery system and facilitate smooth flow of credit to the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSMEs) engaged in Livestock sector without hassles of collateral security. For operationalizing the scheme, DAHD has established a Credit Guarantee fund Trust of Rs 750.00 crores, which will provide credit guarantee coverage up to 25 per cent of the credit facilities extended to the MSMEs by the eligible lending institutions.

The credit guarantee scheme facilitates access to finance for un-served and under-served livestock sector, making availability of financial assistance from lenders to mainly first-generation entrepreneurs and under privileged section of society, who lack collateral security for supporting their ventures.

The main objective of the Credit Guarantee Scheme is that the lender should give importance to project viability and secure the credit facility purely on the basis primary security of the assets financed.

The establishment of credit guarantee fund trust was approved under the Prime Minister’s AtmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyan stimulus package of Rs.15000 crores“ Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund” (AHIDF) for incentivizing investments by individual entrepreneurs, private companies, MSMEs, Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) and Section 8 companies to establish (i) the dairy processing and value addition infrastructure, (ii) meat processing and value addition infrastructure, (iii) Animal Feed Plant, (iv) Breed Improvement technology and Breed Multiplication Farm (v) Animal Waste to Wealth Management (Agri Waste Management) and (vi) Setting up of Veterinary Vaccine and Drugs Manufacturing facilities.

One of the key features of the AHIDF scheme is the establishment of a Credit Guarantee Fund Trust of Rs. 750.00 Crores. DAHD has formed a trust with NABSanrakshan Trustee Company Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of NABARD for the establishment of a Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for extending the credit guarantee to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises under AHIDF scheme. This fund trust established in March 2021 is the Nation’s first ever fund trust under Credit guarantee scheme of AHIDF in the agriculture and Animal Husbandry sector and is a path-breaking initiative taken by DAHD which would exponentially increase the number of MSME units getting benefits of AHIDF scheme and strengthen the ecosystem for the collateral-free credit from the banks.

The credit guarantee portal has been developed as a rule based B2B portal and implemented the enrolment of eligible lending institutions under Credit Guarantee Scheme, issuance/renewal of credit guarantee Cover and settlement of claims.

Notably, the initiative of credit guarantee scheme taken by DAHD is expected to greatly increase the participation of MSMEs engaged in livestock sector leading to increased flow of credit to the sector and strengthen the MSMEs to boost the overall rural economy through strengthening the Livestock sector which is of one of the most potential sectors seeking development.

Scheme to act as a key enabler

AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Animal Health, Dairy, Live Stock

The well-equipped veterinary facilities will be just a call away by dialing 1962

Parshottam Rupala , Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying inaugurated 29 Mobile Veterinary Units and centralised call centre in Thiruvananthpuram  in a significant step for the benefit of the livestock farmers in Kerala.

These MVUs will be operated through a centralised call centre with a uniform Helpline No. 1962. It will receive calls from livestock rearers / animal owners and Veterinarian will prioritize all cases on the basis of emergency nature and will transmit them to the nearest MVU for attending at farmer’s doorstep.

MVUs will provide diagnosis treatment, vaccination, artificial insemination, minor surgical interventions, audio-visual aids and extension services to farmers / animal owners at their doorstep in far flung area. MVUs will act as one-stop Centre for solutions to veterinary issues and dissemination of information to the remotest areas of the country.

Kerala is deploying 50 MVUs in different districts. Now, the veterinary hospital will be just a call away by dialling 1962. These vehicles are equipped with state of art diagnostic tools, animal treatment and breeding accessories, audio visual aids and necessary medications.

The Minister highlighted that this intervention will boost the confidence of dairy breeders to rear high productive dairy animals as most of the breeders are reluctant to take their livestock to Veterinary Hospital for treatment and usually end calling quacks for doorstep delivery of services. Each MVU shall be manned by a qualified Veterinarian and a Paravet for providing specialized services to livestock farmers, he added.

Elaborating on the scheme the Minister underlined that the scheme is promising and will transform the dairy sector from a subsistence-based farm livelihood to a commercially viable enterprise by giving gainful employment to the youth of the Kerala.

In the current financial year, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), MoFAHD, Govt of India has sanctioned 4332 MVUs across the country.

The well-equipped veterinary facilities will be just