The Dr. S.N. Dwivedi Aquaculture Complex, Division of Aquaculture ICAR-Central
Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, was formally inaugurated on March 8,
2025 (Saturday) by Shri George Kurian, Hon’ble Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry & Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Government of India. The event marked a
significant leap forward in promoting advanced aquaculture research and hands-on
experience for the Scholars of CIFE and the trainees from various places in the country.
Graced by eminent dignitaries including Dr. Joykrushna Jena, Deputy Director General
(Fisheries Science), ICAR, New Delhi, and Dr. Ravi Shankar C.N., Director & Vice-
Chancellor, CIFE, the inauguration was a momentous occasion reflecting ICAR-CIFE’s
commitment to excellence in fisheries science and education.
The public aquarium renovated in the aquaculture complex consists of 39 aquariums
showcasing different varieties of fishes which will attract students of universities, colleges
and schools accros the country along with mumtiple visitors. The aquarium will be open for
public in the working days. The recreational angling and sports fishing facilities is one of its
own kind in the city like Mumbai where many anglers would like to try their hand and spend
good time with the fishes by catching the fishes from the pond as well as fish watching and
feeding the koi and other exotic fishes.
The state-of-the-art complex features a cutting-edge Experimental Wetlab, empowering
researchers and students to conduct pioneering studies on a wide variety of freshwater
species such as Magur, Striped Catfish, Murrel, Notopterus, Climbing Perch, GIF Tilapia,
Mahseer, Stinging Catfish, and Pacu. The facility enhances hands-on learning and
innovation in freshwater aquaculture techniques.
A dedicated Ornamental Fish Breeding Unit of ICAR-CIFE has achieved standardization of
captive maturation protocols for popular species like Zebra Loach, Silver Dollar, Yellow
Panchax, and Jerdoni Barb. To engage the public and promote awareness, a stunning Public
Aquarium with 48 display tanks showcases an exotic and indigenous collection of
ornamental fishes such as Goldfish, Silver Arowana, Koi Carp, Stingray, Discus, Red-
bellied piranha, Flower Horn, Alligator Gar, and various Cichlids and Loaches.
In alignment with sustainable aquaculture practices, the complex also houses Recirculatory
Aquaculture Systems (RAS), two aquaponics units, a biofloc system, two outdoor rearing
facilities, and a recreational angling zone, making it a multifaceted hub for education,
research, and public engagement.
The Dr. S.N. Dwivedi Aquaculture Complex witnessed the visits of several distinguished
guests, including Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi (IAS) Officer on Special Duty, Department of
Fisheries, Government of India; Dr. Ramaswamy (IAS) Secretary, Animal Husbandry &
Dairying, and Fisheries, Maharashtra, Shri. Kishore Tawade (IAS), Commissioner of
Fisheries, Maharashtra; Smt. Meshram (IAS), Maharashtra Fisheries Development
Corporation; Shri. Chagule, Joint Commissioner of Inland Fisheries, Maharashtra, Ms. Alka
Nangia Arora, Additional Secretary (DARE) & Financial Advisor (ICAR); Dr. Dheer Singh,
Director & Vice Chancellor, NDRI; and Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director and Vice Chancellor
of IARI. Their presence underscored the importance of this landmark facility in
strengthening India’s fisheries education and research ecosystem.
The Dr. S.N. Dwivedi Aquaculture Complex stands as a beacon for innovation and learning,
inviting fisheries professionals, researchers, and the public alike to explore the frontiers of
sustainable aquaculture.
