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HomePosts Tagged "Ministry of Fisheries"
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, Start ups

The NFDP Mobile Application was launched during the Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 to expand access to Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PM-MKSSY) benefits.

The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAH&D), organized the Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 today in Hyderabad, Telangana. The event was inaugurated by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry (MoFAH&D) & the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel (MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj) & Prof Ramesh Chand, Member NITI Aayog.

The Department of Fisheries organized the Startup Conclave 2.0 to promote innovation in the fisheries sector. As part of this initiative, the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0 was launched to support startups in manufacturing and related areas. The program aims to foster entrepreneurship, technological advancements, and sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture, enhancing production and efficiency. Through the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0 support will be extended to 10 winning startups with Rs 1 crore in funding. Each winning proposal will receive structured incubation support from ICAR (ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology), (National Fisheries Development Board) NFDB, or other affiliated institutions under the Department of Fisheries. These incubators will play a crucial role in mentoring startups, offering capacity-building programs, and providing access to manufacturing infrastructure to help them scale their solutions effectively.

The NFDP Mobile Application was launched during the Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 to expand access to Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PM-MKSSY) benefits. The launch was led by Rajiv Ranjan Singh,Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj other dignitaries, and participating startups.

 The NFDP mobile app has been developed and is now available on the Google Play Store. The app offers a seamless interface for users particularly startups to navigate various modules and avail scheme benefits.

Developed under the scheme Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), the NFDP serves as a platform for creating digital work-identities for fishers, fish farmers, vendors, and processors, enabling their seamless integration into formal financial and welfare systems. The mobile application simplifies access to various government schemes, offering a user-friendly interface for navigating multiple modules and avail scheme benefits. The NFDP mobile app has transformed the fisheries sector by enabling digital registration and providing access to the PM-MKSSY scheme, financial aid, insurance, and training programs. It offers Rs 100 for self-registration and Rs 76 for registration via VLEs of CSCs. The app strengthens cooperatives, improves traceability, and enhances market linkages, benefiting over 19 lakh registered users. Special awareness and registration camps are boosting participation, making this initiative a major step toward digital inclusion and financial empowerment in the fisheries sector.

The NFDP Mobile Application was launched during

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

AgroPolicy, Animal Husbandry, Dairy, India, Live Stock

Odisha to boost milk procurement capacity from 5 Lakh to 10 Lakh Liters Per day with new “Market Support Program”.

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, virtually inaugurated a series of impactful initiatives in the dairy and livestock sector in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. Spearheaded by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, these programs aim to enhance rural livelihoods, improve livestock productivity and address critical nutritional challenges in the region.

During the event, the President of India inaugurated the Cattle Induction Program in Mayurbhanj under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This initiative included the distribution of 3,000 high-genetic-merit cattle to identified beneficiaries in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission scheme of DAHD, a Productivity Enhancement project is being implemented by the National Dairy Development Board in Mayurbhanj with an allocation of Rs 37.45 crores over five years. The program seeks to enhance milk production, strengthen rural incomes, and promote sustainable livestock practices.

 As part of the event, the Gift Milk Program was also launched. Designed to combat malnutrition and improve the health of the children, this program will provide 200 ml of flavoured milk fortified with Vitamins A and D to approximately 1,200 schoolchildren in Mayurbhanj district. While virtually inaugurating the initiative, the President of India noted the positive impact of such programs on nutrition and education, expressing hope that such efforts would serve as a model for similar interventions nationwide.

 Additionally, the President launched a Market Support Program to strengthen milk procurement, processing and marketing in the State of Odisha. This initiative is aimed at increasing milk procurement capacity in the state from 5 lakh litres per day to 10 lakh litres per day. This program focuses on building branding and distribution networks to ensure better returns for the farmers.

In her address, the President Droupadi Murmu commended the efforts of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in transforming the dairy sector through forward-looking policies and innovative interventions. She highlighted India’s leadership in milk production, which has grown at an impressive 6% annual rate over the last decade, surpassing global trends. The President also emphasized the need for adopting advanced technologies, such as Artificial Insemination and sex-sorted semen, to enhance livestock productivity and increase the profitability of dairy farming.

Union Minister, Rajeev Ranjan Singh also addressed the gathering and emphasised upon the success of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which has made significant contributions towards breed improvement and productivity enhancement of the indigenous bovine breeds. The Union Minister also lauded the efforts of DAHD and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) for driving rural economic growth and providing consistent support for strategic dairy initiatives while improving market connectivity for farmers.

Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, highlighted the vital role of livestock in fostering sustainable rural livelihoods. He emphasized the state’s commitment to advancing the dairy and livestock sectors through innovative and farmer-centric programs.

The event was graced by several dignitaries including Union Minister, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Union Minister ,  Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education; Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry  and Dairying and Panchayati Raj ; George Kurian, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Minority Affairs and Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha.

Odisha to boost milk procurement capacity from

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

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

The Department of Fisheries under PMMSY, launched the developing of a Tuna Cluster in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, focusing on investment in infrastructure, investor partnerships, training, and capacity-building to strengthen operations and boost global competitiveness in tuna fisheries.

The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal husbandry & Dairying Organized the Investors Meet 2024: Investment Opportunities in Fisheries and Aquaculture sector of Andaman & Nicobar Islands on 14th November 2024 at Swaraj Dweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the gracious presence of Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Admiral D K Joshi, Minister of State for MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs George Kurian, Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D Secretary, and Chief Secretary of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Investors from various parts of the country specializing in technologies related to Tuna Fishing and Seaweed also participated in the event. In this context, The Department of Fisheries, GoI, under PMMSY, launched the developing of a Tuna Cluster in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, focusing on investment in infrastructure, investor partnerships, training, and capacity-building to strengthen operations and boost global competitiveness in tuna fisheries.

The global tuna industry, valued at over $40 billion annually, plays a major role in the blue economy. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands represent a prime opportunity for this sector, with a vast 6 lakh square km Exclusive Economic Zone rich in high-value tuna species and an untapped oceanic potential of 60,000 metric tons. This includes 24,000 metric tons for Yellowfin and 2,000 metric tons for Skipjack, while current harvests stand at just 4,420 metric tons, leaving ample room for expansion. Strategically located near Southeast Asia, the islands offer efficient trade routes by sea and air, ideally positioning India to expand its tuna export capabilities.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, envisioned the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a future hub for fisheries exports, noting that the government is also working to strengthen trade with Southeast Asian countries. Additionally, he outlined efforts to promote deep-sea fishing and develop post-harvest processing facilities to help achieve the export target of Rs1 lakh crore. The Union Minister emphasised on creating modern fishing infrastructure in A&N for sustainably utilising huge untapped resources of this region. 

The Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Admiral D.K. Joshi, addressed key challenges facing the fisheries sector in the region, including logistical issues due to limited connectivity with Southeast Asia, delays in trade clearances caused by the absence of MPEDA and EIC offices (with Chennai being the nearest office), and the need for improved transport infrastructure. To address these challenges, a direct flight connecting the Andaman & Nicobar Islands with Southeast Asia though Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia, will be inaugurated on 16th November 2024, enabling the trade connectivity. First export consignment may be sent via the return flight. Additionally, for seafood exports promotion from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the MPEDA and EIC have established desk offices at Port Blair enhancing the efficiency of trade clearances and facilitating smoother operations.

The Department of Fisheries under PMMSY, launched

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, Agro Universities, India

Black soldier fly larvae will be utilized to transform the waste into sustainable protein sources, offering an alternative to fish meal in mariculture feed.

 George Kurian, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Minority Affairs inaugurated the black soldier fly-based bio-waste conversion unit at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi. As part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign led by ICAR-CMFRI, the newly established unit is designed to process vegetable and fishery-related biological waste, adhering to zero waste and circular economy principles. Black soldier fly larvae will be utilized to transform the waste into sustainable protein sources, offering an alternative to fish meal in mariculture feed.

Kurian stated that the Swachh Bharat initiative is dedicated to improve all facets of human life, from production and development to fisheries, agriculture, and the industrial sector. Prioritising cleanliness and sanitation will help create a healthier and more prosperous society, he added. The Minister also said that the government’s Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) programme aims to foster a behavioural change with a mindful and deliberate utilisation of natural resources. He also accentuated that efforts are underway to expand the installation of artificial reefs in the coastal waters of all maritime states, led by the Union Fisheries Department.

Kurian interacted with fish farmers and entrepreneurs in ornamental fisheries, fish seed production, integrated fish farming and fish vending.  He reviewed various facilities, ICAR-CMFRI including Science Technology and Innovation Hub, hatcheries, laboratories and library.

Dr Grinson George, Director, ICAR-CMFRI, emphasized that the Institute followed a scientific approach to swachhata initiatives, including eco-friendly and low carbon technologies in the marine fisheries sector. ICAR-CMFRI focuses on community-based awareness campaigns, especially among women entrepreneurs, helping them to take up these technologies”, he added.

Dr Kuldeep K Lal, Director, ICAR- Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai, also graced the occasion. A book titled ‘One Decade of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at ICAR-CMFRI’ and a brochure on BSFL based bio-waste conversion were released by the Minister on the occasion.

Black soldier fly larvae will be utilized

Dairy, India, Interaction, Live Stock

The conference will delve into cutting-edge topics such as productivity enhancement, digitalisation, sustainable practices, and climate action in the dairy sector.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, NDDB and IDF have jointly organised the three days ‘ First IDF Regional Dairy Conference Asia Pacific 2024’ kickstarted today in Kochi, Kerala.

Dr Meenesh Shah, Chairman, NDDB & Member INC International Dairy Federation welcoming Ministers, Secretaries, President & Director General, IDF, Sponsors, Session Chairs, Invited Speakers, Delegates, Dairy Farmers to the First IDF Regional Dairy Conference Asia Pacific 2024 in Kochi, Kerala said that NDDB is honoured to host this prestigious event under the theme ‘Farmer Centric Innovations in Dairying’ in Kochi, Kerala.

He underscored in his address that dairying is not just an industry; it’s a lifeline for over 1 billion people worldwide, supporting livelihoods and fostering rural economies. In India alone, over 8 crore people are engaged in dairy-related activities, highlighting its critical role in socio-economic development.

He informed that the conference will delve into cutting-edge topics such as productivity enhancement, digitalisation, sustainable practices, and climate action in the dairy sector. He further added that the exhibition featuring transformative products and technologies will showcase the industry’s progress and potential. Let’s leverage this platform to collaborate, exchange ideas, and strategies on overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable growth in the dairy sector.

He also mentioned that this conference will bring together all stakeholders to come up with innovations in areas of improved germplasm, new products development, better health monitoring, advancement in nutrition, livestock quality and quantity & a transparent supply chain network.

During the conference, Member Secretary, INC IDF and Board Member IDF, Dr Shah said that India seized the opportunity to host the inaugural IDF regional dairy conference for Asia Pacific region on the theme ‘Farmer Centric Innovations’.

He informed that the event would see participation of distinguished speakers, policy makers, research from various esteemed global dairy organisations in the event. He also mentioned that Animal Husbandry Ministers & Secretaries from various states will also represent their respective States. Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, Dept. of AHD & President INC-IDF, Pier Cristiano Brazzale Brazalle, President IDF and Ms. Laurence Rycken, DG, IDF along with over 1,000 registered delegates from across 25 countries and 400-500 farmers will also grace the 3-day conference. He informed that the event would showcase India’s innovative strives in the sector and will provide platform to 22 organisations & 17 startups to demonstrate their products/activities at the exhibition hosted during the IDF regional event.

The conference will delve into cutting-edge topics

AgroPolicy, Animal Health, Animal Husbandry, Cold Storage, India, Live Stock, Supply Chain

This MoU will contribute to creation of a digital future via digitalization and remote temperature monitoring of cold chain by UNDP India.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India on Digitalization of Vaccine Cold Chain Management, Capacity Building, and Communication Planning.

The MOU was signed today at “We the People Hall”, UNDP Country office, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi between Alka Upadhyay, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Caitlin Wiesen. UNDP Resident Representative in India. This strategic partnership aims to enhance the digitalization of vaccine cold chain management, capacity building, and communication planning in India.

Notably, UNDP and DAHD will jointly work on Strengthening Animal Health with One Health approach at centre. This step will contribute to creation of a digital future via digitalization and remote temperature monitoring of cold chain by UNDP India. This will ensure that vaccines are stored in an adequate temperature of prescribed limit of 2-8 degree Celsius which is important to increase immunization coverage and outreach. Currently, DAHD is supplying FMD (Foot and Mouth diseases) vaccine worth approximately Rs. 900 Crore this year and aims to cover 50 Crore large animals and 20 Crore small animals in FMD vaccination programme.

Through this MoU, technical assistance will be extended to CEAH to enhance its capabilities in animal husbandry practices. Other aspects of MoU cover support in planning and development of effective and inclusive livestock insurance programme and crafting and implementation of an effective communication plan for the department which will help in ensuring better propagation and outreach of the department’s activities. The partnership will also work on extension services and skill development initiatives to improve the technical know-how and capacities of stakeholders in the animal husbandry sector.

Addressing the meeting, Alka Upadhyay explained “With digitalization of the entire vaccine stock management system and providing real-time information on vaccine stocks and flows, and storage temperatures, the inequities in vaccine supply will be addressed by managing constraints of infrastructure, management information systems, and human resources. The vaccine cold chain management process, she added will be monitored with the help of new age technology and artificial intelligence through the Animal vaccine Intelligence Network (AVIN) developed by UNDP.

UNDP Resident Representative, Caitlin Wiesen, while signing the MoU, said that “Amid confluence of frequent zoonotic disease outbreak and climate change, animals and the communities engaged in rearing them are increasingly vulnerable. She added that through this partnership with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, UNDP will support and strengthen India’s first animal vaccine supply chain management system ensuring communities and animals are protected and further mitigating the risks at the human-animal-environment interface.”

Sarita Chauhan, Joint Secretary (LH), DAHD while explaining  the objectives of collaboration mentioned that, the essential but arduous work of real time monitoring of the vast cold chain infrastructure available across the country will be possible with the help of new age technology and artificial intelligence through the cold chain monitoring system developed by UNDP, which will support the Department to manage and deliver vaccines across the country in the right quantity, right quality, at the right time and right temperature with supportive supervision.

This MoU will contribute to creation of

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-

Animal Health, Live Stock, Poultry

A memorandum to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, pointed out that India’s 34.60 MMT annual maize production is insufficient to meet the requirements of the poultry industry as well as the nation’s food security

The All India Poultry Breeder Association (AIPBA) Delhi has written to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying to allow duty-free maize imports to enable the poultry industry to meet its future requirements.

The current basic import duty on maize stands at 50 per cent.

Citing concerns over the rising maize consumption in ethanol production, the All India Poultry Breeder Association (AIPBA), in a memorandum to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, pointed out that India’s 34.60 MMT annual maize production is insufficient to meet the requirements of the poultry industry as well as nation’s food security.

“As per estimates of the Indian Institute of Millets Research, the Poultry and Livestock industry consumes more than 60 per cent of the country’s maize production. In this context, the government’s ambitious plan to generate half of the ethanol from maize by 2025-26 may have some serious implications for sectors like poultry and livestock. Diverting such a significant chunk of current maize production to ethanol could impact their access to essential feedstock, creating a severe demand-supply gap in the coming years,” said the memorandum submitted to the government by the All India Poultry Breeder Association under the chairmanship of Bahadur Ali who is also the Managing Director of IB Group.

Over the last decade, maize production growth has been at 4.5 per cent, while the poultry industry has experienced a growth of 8-9 per cent. This disparity highlights the anticipated maize shortage for the poultry industry, particularly in the wake of the government’s plan to promote maize for ethanol in a big way.

“Addressing the rising demand for maize in both livestock feed and other industries presents two options: importing maize or increasing domestic production. However, significant short-term increases in domestic output are deemed improbable. Therefore, importing maize from other countries emerges as the most viable solution to meet the immediate demand,” the association stated in its memorandum to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.

Ethanol’s growing thirst for maize has also pushed prices skyward, posing a major challenge for Indian poultry farmers. With maize prices hovering around Rs 22-23 per kg across India, poultry farmers are grappling with unsustainable costs. The burden is expected to intensify further by February 2024, which may adversely impact the poultry industry.

A memorandum to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal