World Fisheries Day 2025 was enthusiastically celebrated at the Faculty of Fishery Sciences, WBUAFS, Kolkata

World Fisheries Day 2025 was enthusiastically celebrated at the Faculty of Fishery Sciences, WBUAFS, Kolkata in collaboration with Pillay Aquaculture Foundation Trust, Indian Chapter on 21 November, 2025. The event aims to increase awareness about the critical role of fisheries and aquaculture in ensuring food security, supporting livelihoods, and maintaining ecosystem health. On this occasion, notable professionals spoke, and poster presentations were presented.The inaugural session commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by an invocation song by students. The inaugural session began with the usual lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a student-led invocation song. Prof. T.S. Nagesh, Dean of the Faculty of Fishery Sciences, made the welcome address, emphasizing the importance of World Fisheries Day and PAFTIC’s work. Dr. T.K. Datta, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of WBUAFS, presided over the ceremony and stressed the importance of fisheries in the country’s economic prosperity as well as the characteristics of a good student. Prof. B.B. Mallick, Former Vice Chancellor and the function’s chief guest, reflected on the development of WBUAFS and the role of academic institutions in improving the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in the state and country. Dr. A.K. Pal, Former Joint Director of ICAR-CIFE and the Guest of Honor, emphasized the need of skill development in fisheries experts in resolving fish farmers’ difficulties. Dr. Archana Sinha, Head of the Division, Aquatic Environment and Biotechnology Division, ICAR-CIFRI, and the Guest of Honor, discussed the relevance of small indigenous fishes as a rich source of nutrition and for increasing fisheries and aquaculture productivity. Prof. S. Batabyal, DREF, WBUAFS, and Prof. Partha Das, Registrar, WBUAFS, Guests of Honour, emphasized the importance of various stakeholders in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, as well as maximizing resource utilization. Prof. Supratim Chowdhury, CoE, WBUAFS, and the Guest of Honor discussed the theme of World Fisheries Day 2025, “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Value Addition in Seafood Exports”. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Gadadhar Dash, Organizing Secretary.

The technical session featured expert talks on contemporary topics in aquaculture. Dr. A.K. Pal delivered his talk on “Functional Feed Additives for Aquaculture” highlighting the role of specialized feeds in enhancing fish health and productivity. Dr. Archana Sinha delivered a talk on “Ornamental Fish Culture Boosts the Blue Economy” emphasizing the indigenous technologies, economic potential and sustainability of ornamental fisheries.

Poster presentation session on the theme “Blue Horizons: Innovative Ideas for Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries Development” by students and early-career scientists was held. A total 21 posters were presented among which best three were selected for awards. The best presentations were recognized with awards, encouraging innovation and scientific inquiry among the next generation of fisheries professionals. The celebration effectively promoted collaboration among academics, researchers, and industry players, emphasizing the commitment to sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development in accordance with global goals such as SDG 14: Life Below Water. The event concluded with award ceremony followed by the singing of the National Anthem.