Trust Area

The future thrust of the institute would prominently focus on development of new technologies pertaining to emerging needs of the country in the context of IPR regime. The exploration and documentation of germplasm at species and genetic stock levels will be the mainstay. Further, capacity building will be taken up for exploration of germplasm at genomic levels. In addition to generation of knowledge, importance will be given for utilization of the generated knowledge for conservation efforts.

• Conduct exploration programmes for the assessment of fish biodiversity in different river basins and biodiversity-rich regions, leading to the discovery of new fish germplasm resources.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive databases on fish and shellfish genetic resources across the country, including different river basins and eco-regions.
• Carry out population characterization studies to document intra-specific genetic variation for effective conservation and management.
• Establish regional live gene banks for the ex situ conservation of endemic, threatened, and endangered fish species.
• Undertake valuation of fish genetic resources to support sustainable utilization and conservation planning.
• Develop, strengthen, and maintain a national germplasm repository for long-term conservation of aquatic genetic resources.
• Develop a risk assessment system to support decision-making and management of exotic fish species introduced into Indian waters.
• Conduct research on the genetic resources of Indian Major Carps (IMCs) and develop strategies for their sustainable management.
• Develop and maintain sperm banks for ex situ conservation and aquaculture applications of important fish species.
• Undertake genome exploration of commercially and culturally important fish species to strengthen breeding and conservation programmes.
• Promote research in cutting-edge areas including stem cell technology, cell line development, surrogate broodstock, functional genomics, and gene mapping.
• Evaluate new potential exotic species for aquaculture development and assess their ecological impacts on indigenous fish fauna.
• Establish an effective aquatic animal disease surveillance system and develop rapid response mechanisms to manage disease emergencies.
• Develop molecular diagnostic techniques for important fish pathogens and strengthen disease management strategies in aquaculture.
• Conduct research on prophylactic and curative measures for improved aquatic animal health management, with special emphasis on diseases of national concern.
• Enhance capacity building through the development of scientific expertise and establishment of advanced research infrastructure in emerging areas.
• Promote human resource development, technology dissemination, and knowledge transfer to support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development.