Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar

The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), established in 1987, is a premier research institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the institute is dedicated to advancing the field of freshwater aquaculture through cutting-edge research, education, and extension services. CIFA has played a pivotal role in developing sustainable aquaculture technologies and capacity building for the aquaculture industry in India.

1. Academic Programs

CIFA offers research-based programs and training in freshwater aquaculture.

Doctoral Program (Ph.D.)

• Fields: Aquaculture, Fish Genetics, Nutrition, Health, and Biotechnology.
• Duration: 3-5 years
• Eligibility: Master’s degree in Fisheries Science or related disciplines with a minimum of 60% marks.

Short-Term Training Programs

• Topics: Advanced aquaculture techniques, breeding, fish nutrition, water quality management, and disease management.
• Duration: 1-6 weeks
• Target Audience: Students, entrepreneurs, and professionals in fisheries and aquaculture.

Skill Development Programs

• Conducted under government initiatives like the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC).

2. Research Focus Areas

CIFA’s research contributions aim at enhancing the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of freshwater aquaculture. Key focus areas include:

• Genetic improvement of fish species like Rohu and Catla.
• Fish health management and disease control.
• Development of cost-effective fish feeds.
• Environmental sustainability in aquaculture.

3. Infrastructure and Facilities

• Campus: Spread over a vast area with laboratories, hatcheries, and research ponds.
• Library: A well-equipped library with books, journals, and digital resources related to fisheries science.
• Laboratories: Specialized labs for fish genetics, nutrition, biotechnology, and water quality.
• Training Centers: Modern facilities for hands-on training and workshops.
• Research Ponds: On-campus ponds for experimental aquaculture.

4. Outreach and Extension Programs

CIFA actively collaborates with state governments, NGOs, and private organizations to promote freshwater aquaculture.

• Workshops and Seminars: Regularly organized for technology dissemination.
• Farmers’ Training: Focused on modern aquaculture practices to enhance productivity.

5. Admission Process

Eligibility Criteria

• Ph.D.:
  • Master’s degree in Fisheries Science or related fields.
  • Entrance exam conducted by ICAR or the institute.
• Short-Term and Skill Development Programs:
  • Open to students, researchers, and professionals.

Application Process

1. Apply online through the CIFA website or offline via the administration office.
2. For Ph.D. programs, candidates are shortlisted based on entrance exam scores and interviews.

6. Fee Structure

Note: Hostel charges and other fees are additional for residential programs.

7. Achievements and Collaborations

• Successfully developed Jayanti Rohu, a genetically improved strain of Rohu fish.
• Collaboration with international organizations like FAO, WorldFish, and NACA.
• Recognized as a Centre of Excellence in Aquaculture by the Government of India.

8. Contact Information

Address:
Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA)
Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar – 751002, Odisha, India

Website: www.cifa.nic.in
Contact: +91-674-2465421 / +91-674-2465446

For detailed information about courses, research, and training opportunities, visit the official website or contact the institute directly.