The Directorate of Research, Extension & Farms (DREF) is one of the key functional Directorates of the West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences (WBUAFS). It serves as the central coordinating body for planning, promoting and monitoring the University’s research and extension activities while fostering strong linkages with academic programmes. By bringing together scientists, teachers, students, extension personnel, farmers, entrepreneurs, industries and development agencies, DREF plays a pivotal role in translating scientific research into practical solutions for the livestock, dairy and fisheries sectors.
The Directorate coordinates research activities across the three faculties of the University—Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Fishery Sciences and Dairy Technology. It facilitates the preparation, implementation and monitoring of research projects supported by agencies such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Government of West Bengal. DREF also promotes interdisciplinary research by encouraging collaboration among different departments and by establishing partnerships with ICAR Institutes, universities, government organizations and industries through collaborative projects and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
Extension is one of the core strengths of DREF. Through the University’s Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and field units, the Directorate coordinates farmers’ training programmes, frontline demonstrations, on-farm trials, technology assessment and entrepreneurship development initiatives. It also organizes refresher courses, Human Resource Development (HRD) programmes and specialized hands-on training in Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Fishery Sciences and Dairy Technology for scientists, extension personnel, veterinarians, farmers, students and rural entrepreneurs. These programmes not only enhance professional skills but also ensure that research findings are effectively transferred to end users.
DREF supports field evaluation, stakeholder engagement and technology transfer, helping to promote the wider adoption and commercialization of these innovations. DREF also contributes significantly to the University’s academic activities. The Director of Research serves on Ph.D. Research Advisory and Monitoring Committees, contributing to the planning, monitoring and quality assurance of doctoral research. The Directorate supports postgraduate education by facilitating research projects, organizing scientific seminars and workshops, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and coordinating internship and experiential learning programmes for students of WBUAFS as well as students from other State Agricultural Universities and institutions across the country. Close interaction with the KVKs further provides students with valuable field exposure and hands-on experience in technology assessment, extension methodologies and rural outreach.
Over the years, DREF has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings together research, academics and extension in a coordinated manner. By promoting multidisciplinary research, strengthening partnerships with national organizations and industries, and maintaining close engagement with farming communities, the Directorate has made a significant contribution to the University’s mission of generating knowledge, developing innovative technologies and improving the livelihoods of livestock farmers, fish farmers and dairy entrepreneurs. Its continued efforts have strengthened the University’s role as a leading institution in veterinary, dairy and fishery education, research and extension.