ICAR-CIBA takes immense pride in announcing that it has achieved significant milestone by getting National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation as per the standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017, solidifying the position as one among the few select ICAR institutes recognized for its state-of-the-art facility and ability in the field of biological testing. The National Referral Laboratory for Brackishwater Aquatic Animal Diseases (NRLBAAD) established in this institute got NABL accreditation for the detection of WSSV, IHHNV, IMNV and EHP pathogens. The NABL accreditation stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment in maintaining the highest standards of quality, research, provides formal recognition of competence of the laboratory to enable the customers, our collaborators, clients and stakeholders to find reliable testing, precise results and calibration services to meet their requirement within the realm of fisheries science. It reflects the dedication and ongoing pursuit of excellence in all aspects of its operation.
National referral laboratory for brackishwater aquatic animal diseases (NRLBAAD) was established in the year 2013 with a modest funding under the aegis of National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) as a National Referral Laboratory by NFDB, Hyderabad. Since then, the laboratory has played a significant role in providing cost-effective disease diagnostic services and training.
ICAR-CIBA established an upgraded state-of-the-art and modern facilities at its headquarters in Chennai. The laboratory has been serving aquaculture industry of the country by providing timely and reliable diagnosis on referral cases from stakeholders and Government agencies. The laboratory is equipped with all the latest disease diagnostic tools and has three component units for Molecular diagnostics, Pathology and Microbiology which together helps in diagnosis of various diseases encountered by the aquaculture industry. The laboratory has been routinely engaged in screening/diagnosis of OIE listed and non – listed shellfish and finfish pathogens. In addition, the laboratory conducts periodical and need-based aquaculture disease surveillance in India for the benefit of the farming community. All the known diseases affecting the shellfish and finfish are diagnosed at this laboratory by internationally accepted protocols. Earlier, the laboratory has successfully participated in a regional proficiency testing programme for aquatic animal disease diagnostic laboratories in Asia-Pacific conducted by CSIRO and ANQAP, Australia in collaboration with NACA, Bangkok, Thailand during 2013 & 2014.
As one of the few ICAR institutions to obtain this prestigious accreditation, we embrace a responsibility to exemplify excellence and leadership in advancing the understanding and sustainable management of aquatic resources. Our dedication to rigorous research, innovative practices, and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems has been acknowledged through this esteemed accreditation. This is the second fisheries research institute of ICAR to obtain NABL accreditation in the domain of disease diagnostics. With this accreditation, we affirm our adherence to best practices, confirming that our processes, methodologies, and outcomes meet the highest benchmarks of quality and reliability. It underscores our pledge to provide trustworthy services in brackishwater aquaculture. By meeting the stringent criteria set forth by NABL, we affirm our institute’s dedication to upholding industry-foremost practices, certifying the veracity and consistency of our research, education, and outreach initiatives.
