India Launches National Aquatic Disease Surveillance Program
The Indian government has initiated a comprehensive framework aimed at the early detection and management of aquatic animal diseases. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Department of Fisheries is implementing the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) with a budget of โน33.78 crore. This initiative, which involves collaboration with numerous research institutions, aims to enhance disease management and promote a healthy aquatic ecosystem across the country.
Comprehensive Surveillance Across India
The National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) is designed to systematically monitor aquatic animal health across all states and Union Territories in India. The program focuses on identifying disease risks, improving management practices, and fostering a robust aquatic ecosystem. It is a nationwide initiative that collaborates with 54 partner institutions, including several ICAR fisheries research institutes. These institutions include the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education in Mumbai, the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture in Chennai, and the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute in Kochi, among others.
Through NSPAAD, the Department of Fisheries aims to support fish farmers by raising awareness about aquatic diseases, issuing advisories, and conducting capacity-building campaigns. The initiative also includes the launch of an innovative mobile application called โReport Fish Disease,โ which serves as a central platform for fish farmers, field officers, and fish health experts to connect and share information seamlessly.
Strengthening Aquatic Health Infrastructure
To bolster aquatic health management, the Department of Fisheries has established a network comprising 19 disease diagnostic centers, 31 mobile testing labs, and 6 aquatic referral labs. This infrastructure is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management of aquatic diseases. The department is also actively collaborating with international organizations such as the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) in Paris and the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA) in Bangkok to enhance aquatic animal health standards in India.
These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability and health of the aquaculture sector, which is vital for the livelihoods of many communities across the country. By implementing these measures, the Department of Fisheries aims to create a resilient framework that not only addresses current challenges but also anticipates future threats to aquatic health.
Government’s Commitment to Aquaculture
This initiative was highlighted by Shri George Kurian, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, during a written response in the Lok Sabha on March 25, 2025. The government’s proactive approach in establishing a robust surveillance and management system for aquatic diseases underscores its dedication to promoting healthy aquaculture practices and ensuring food security through sustainable fish farming.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editorโs Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
