ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore Equips Young Researchers with Advanced Molecular Tools for Sustainable Aquatic Resource Management

4 August 2026, Barrackpore

Reinforcing its commitment to advancing fisheries research through cutting-edge science, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, today inaugurated a three-day intensive hands-on training programme on "Molecular Tools for Aquatic Resource Management", bringing together students, faculty members and researchers from universities and research institutions across the country.

The training programme is designed to build technical expertise in modern molecular biology techniques that are increasingly transforming fisheries research, biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquatic resource management.

Inaugurating the programme, Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, emphasized that molecular technologies are becoming indispensable for evidence-based fisheries management in the face of climate change, biodiversity loss and emerging aquatic diseases. He noted that tools such as genomics, DNA barcoding, environmental DNA (eDNA) and bioinformatics are strengthening biodiversity assessment, genetic resource conservation, disease surveillance and sustainable aquaculture.

Addressing the participants, Dr Dey urged young researchers to integrate molecular tools with conventional fisheries science to develop innovative, science-based solutions for sustainable aquatic resource management. He emphasized that strengthening human resource capacity in advanced molecular technologies is essential to support national priorities on aquatic biodiversity conservation, biosecurity and the Blue Economy. He reaffirmed ICAR-CIFRI's commitment to nurturing skilled researchers through quality training, innovation and scientific collaboration.

The inaugural session highlighted the expanding applications of genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in fisheries science. It was emphasised that strengthening expertise in advanced molecular techniques is essential for driving innovation, enhancing research quality and ensuring the sustainable growth of the fisheries sector. The objectives, structure and expected outcomes of the training programme were also outlined, with participants being welcomed to the programme.

During the three-day training, participants will receive intensive theoretical and practical exposure to state-of-the-art molecular techniques, including DNA and protein isolation, gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), characterization of nucleic acids and proteins, and introductory bioinformatics for sequence analysis and interpretation of molecular data. The programme also focuses on laboratory protocols, instrumentation, troubleshooting and data analysis, enabling participants to acquire practical skills aligned with current research needs.

A major highlight of the inaugural session was the release of the Training Manual on Molecular Tools for Aquatic Resource Management. Developed as a comprehensive reference resource, the manual integrates fundamental theoretical concepts with practical laboratory methodologies to promote standardized laboratory practices. It is designed to serve as a valuable guide for researchers, students, and professionals engaged in aquatic resource management and molecular research.

By fostering expertise in advanced molecular technologies, the training programme is expected to strengthen human resource capacity, enhance research capabilities and accelerate the adoption of modern biotechnology in fisheries and aquatic sciences, thereby contributing to the sustainable management and conservation of India's invaluable aquatic resources.

A total of 12 participants from universities and research institutes are taking part in the programme.

(Source: ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore)