ICAR-NBFGR hosts AquaEpi III

 

Bureau chief R L Pandey

Lucknow। International Society of Aquatic Animal Epidemiology (ISAAE) organizes a triennial event 'International Conference on Aquatic Animal Epidemiology (AquaEpi)' at ICAR National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources from 29 November-01 December 2023 providing a platform for dissemination, networking, and creative contacts between researchers working in the area of aquatic animal epidemiology, industry, and stakeholders for the benefit of the aquaculture sector. The event is being organized in collaboration with the National Fisheries Development Board and the Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation Society (ABCS). About 250 delegates including 25 overseas experts from eight countries are participating in the conference.

The conference was inaugurated on 29th November 2023. Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science & Animal Science), ICAR, New Delhi & Convener of the conference, in his presidential address mentioned the transformative growth and the contribution of the aquaculture sector for the economy of India as well as other countries across the world. He highlighted the role of epidemiology for diversification and management of aquaculture sector and spoke on the initiatives of ICAR fisheries institutes in the area of disease surveillance and fish health. management. He thanked the guidance and support provided by Dr. Himanshu Pathak Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers's Welfare, Government of India and Shri Abhilaksh Likhi, IAS, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. The Chief guest of the inaugural function, Dr. Kenton L. Morgan, Former Emeritus Professor of Epidemiology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom appreciated the efforts of ICAR-NBFGR in organizing the conference and mentioned that the technical sessions will aid in the development of aquaculture sector. He also energised the session by involving all participants by standing up and clapping that worked as a small yoga break. The guest of honours, Dr. Edgar Brun, Director, Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health and Welfare, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Norway mentioned the importance of epidemiology research and its relevance in aquaculture development, Dr. Iddya Karunasagar, Rtd. Senior Fisheries Officer, FAO & FAO Reference Center for AMR and Aquaculture Biosecurity, NITTE University, Mangalore, spoke on the role of epidemiology research in addressing fish health management issues in aquaculture systems. The souvenir cum abstract book of the technical sessions was released by the dignitaries. The recorded messages of a few eminent scientists across the globe were delivered online. Dr. Lary Hammell, Professor, University of Prince, Edward Island, Canada spoke about the discipline of epidemiology which helps in good research & aquaculture management practices. Dr. C. V. Mohan, Principal Scientist, WorldFish, Malaysia mentioned in order to produce safe nutritional aquaculture products, good governance and policy guidelines are needed. Dr Edwardo Leano, Senior Programme Officer, NACA, Thailand spoke about the limited water resources that hampers aquaculture development needs holistic interventions to address the issue in changing climatic conditions.

While welcoming the delagates, Dr Uttam Kumar Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NBFGR & Co-

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Convener of the conference mentioned the importance of the conference and the

initiatives of ICAR-NBFGR in this line. Dr. Neeraj Sood, Principal Scientist, ICAR-

NBFGR & Organizing Secretary, introduced the history & concept of the conference.

Directors of ICAR institutes namely ICAR-IISR, ICAR CIFRI, ICAR-CIFA also graced the

occasion. Dr. P.K. Pradhan, Principal Scientist & Head, Exotics and Aquatic Animal

Health Division, ICAR-NBFGR & Organizing Secretary rendered the vote of thanks.

Eight technical sessions and separate poster sessions will be held for deliberations

on various aspects of the epidemiology of finfish and shellfish diseases, surveillance

and reporting of diseases, one health and aquaculture, Biosecurity in aquaculture,

and social and economic impacts of aquatic animal diseases. Internationally

renowned experts will grace the event as lead speakers, and share their insights and

experiences in overcoming the current challenges in aquatic animal health. It is It is expected that AquaEpi III will come up with suitable recommendations for reducing.