Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India, visited the ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR–CIBA) and its Muttukadu Experimental Station in Chennai on January 19, 2026. The visit focused on strengthening farmer-centric innovation, promoting indigenous technologies, and advancing climate-smart aquaculture practices across the shrimp sector.
During the visit, Dr Likhi interacted with shrimp farmers and entrepreneurs, who shared their success stories, best practices, and challenges across production, processing, and marketing.
Focus on Scientific Shrimp Breeding Under PMMSY
A key highlight of the visit was Dr Likhi’s inspection of the Penaeus indicus Genetic Improvement Programme, being implemented by ICAR–CIBA under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
The programme aims to:
-
Develop genetically improved stocks of Indian white shrimp (Penaeus indicus)
-
Strengthen scientific shrimp breeding in India
-
Reduce dependence on imported broodstock
-
Support long-term sustainability of shrimp farming
Exposure to Advanced Aquaculture Research Facilities
The Secretary reviewed ICAR–CIBA’s ongoing research and innovation ecosystem and visited multiple facilities, including:
-
Finfish and crustacean research units
-
Ornamental fish and crab culture facilities
-
Feed mill and nutrition laboratories
-
Experimental aquaculture systems
The visit provided firsthand insight into India’s expanding capabilities in brackishwater aquaculture science, innovation, and technology deployment.
Shrimp Sector: Backbone of India’s Seafood Exports
The visit holds strategic significance for the sector, as shrimp accounts for nearly 70% of India’s total seafood exports, reaching around 130 countries worldwide.
Despite the imposition of a 58% tariff by the United States, the sector has demonstrated resilience, registering:
-
21% growth in export value
-
12% increase in export quantity
(Period: April–October 2025)
These figures underscore the strength and global competitiveness of India’s shrimp industry.
PMMSY Projects Driving Innovation and Resource Efficiency
ICAR–CIBA is implementing two major PMMSY-funded projects aimed at strengthening indigenous aquaculture:
-
Development of Indigenous Shrimp Aquaculture: Genetic Improvement Program of Penaeus indicus
-
Project cost: ₹25.04 crore
-
Focus: Developing genetically improved indigenous shrimp lines
-
-
New Age Shrimp System for Precise Use of Land, Water and Feed
-
Project cost: ₹2.21 crore
-
Focus: Promoting climate-smart, resource-efficient shrimp farming models
-
Dr Likhi reviewed the progress of both projects during his visit.
MoUs Signed to Promote Indigenous Shrimp Feed and Reduce Import Dependence
Two key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed in the presence of the Secretary to strengthen India’s indigenous aquaculture ecosystem.
Indigenous Shrimp Larval Feed Commercialisation
An MoU between ICAR–CIBA and M/s Selle Hatchery Tech (Tamil Nadu) enables commercialisation of India’s first indigenous shrimp larval feed.
-
Successfully tested in 50+ hatcheries across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
-
Reduces reliance on expensive imported feeds
-
Marks a major step towards self-reliance in hatchery inputs
Use of Rice-based DDGS in Shrimp Feed
A second MoU between ICAR–CIBA and M/s BRC Marine Products (Odisha) focuses on using Rice Distillers’ Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) as a sustainable protein source in shrimp feed.
Key outcomes:
-
DDGS inclusion of 7.5–10% shows no negative impact on shrimp growth
-
Expected to reduce feed costs by 5–6%
-
Promotes use of locally available, affordable inputs over costly imports
Drone Demonstration for Aquaculture Applications
A live drone demonstration was conducted during the visit, showcasing applications for:
-
Feed spraying
-
Feed transport
-
Precision aquaculture operations
The Department of Fisheries has entrusted pilot drone projects to ICAR–CIFRI, Barrackpore with a project cost of ₹1.16 crore, reflecting the growing role of emerging technologies in fisheries management.
Emphasis on Coordination Between Science, States and Industry
Dr Likhi also chaired a hybrid review meeting with officials from States and Union Territories including Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
He emphasized:
-
Stronger coordination between research institutions, industry partners, and State governments
-
Faster technology transfer from labs to farmers
-
Government’s focus on indigenous innovation, climate-smart aquaculture, and efficient resource utilisation
Senior officials including representatives from DoF, ICAR, ICAR–CIBA and NFDB participated in the deliberations.
Conclusion
Dr Abhilaksh Likhi’s visit to ICAR–CIBA highlights the Government of India’s strategic push toward self-reliant, science-driven, and climate-resilient aquaculture. With indigenous feed development, genetic improvement programmes, drone integration, and farmer-focused innovation, India’s shrimp sector is steadily advancing toward sustainable growth and global leadership.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
