A four days training programme entitled “Biofloc Based Smart Aquaculture” was organized at ICAR-CIBA, Chennai during 22-25 April 2024. The major objective of the training programme was to impart technical knowhow on the nuances of principles and procedures involved in biofloc based smart aquaculture. Altogether 13 trainees including progressive farmers, academicians and eneterprenures with aquaculture background across the country were selected for the training.
The training commenced on 22nd April 2024 with a formal inaugural function at ICAR-CIBA, Chennai. Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA inaugurated the program and delivered the presidential address. In his speech, he provided insights to the potential of smart aquaculture and importance of recent AI based techniques in smart aquaculture. He urged the trainees to make use of the technologies available at ICAR-CIBA for sustainable intensification and diversification of aquaculture. Dr. C. P. Balasubramanian, Principal Scientist & Head of the Crustacean Culture Division, welcomed the participants and emphasized that importance of biofloc farming in modern land-based aquaculture. Dr. A. Panigrahi, Principal Scientist and Course director provided background information and genesis about the training program. The training module encompassed both theoretical and practical sessions on steps involved in biofloc generation, C: N Ratio manipulation, designs and the infrastructure for smart biofloc system, periphyton and copefloc based farming, aeration requirement, nutrition, health and water quality management in biofloc based farming, smart tools on biofloc system, etc. Trainees visited Muttukadu experimental shrimp, finfish hatchery and feed mill at the Muttukadu experimental station of ICAR-CIBA, Muttukadu. The participants were imparted with theoretical as well as practical sessions so that trainee can gain hands-on experience and can take up the culture with confidence. The post- evaluation assessment of the trainees was also conducted to know the impact of the training.
In the valedictory session, the trainees shared their gained experience during the training programs and expressed their satisfaction. The trainees were felicitated with certificates. The program was co-organised by Dr. Kumaraguru Vasagam, Principal scientist, NGBD and scientist team of Crustacean Culture Division, ICAR-CIBA,Chennai.
