Srinagar: A two-day event, ‘Coldwater Fisheries in Jammu and Kashmir: Challenges and Opportunities’ held to commemorate the World Fisheries Day (WFD) concluded on Wednesday at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir’s Faculty of Fisheries, Rangil campus.
A number of programs including expert lectures, scientist-farmer interaction, awareness program, debate and painting competitions were held to highlight the various aspects of this year’s theme.
Fishery plays a vital role in global food security and nutrition, providing over 20% of the animal protein intake for nearly 3 billion people worldwide. However, overfishing, climate change and pollution have posed significant threats to the sustainability of fisheries, endangering aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of fishers. World Fisheries Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about these challenges and promote responsible fisheries management practices that balance conservation with the needs of fishing communities.
Director, Education, SKUAST-K, Prof MAA Siddique, who was the chief guest, stressed on fisheries scientists to develop new technologies for the enhancement of fish production in the UT. He also encouraged the fisheries professionals to start their own business ventures like Ornamental Fisheries, Opening of Fish Kiosks, Fish Processing and postharvest to become the employers rather than the employees.
Dean Faculty of Fisheries, SKUAST-K, Prof Farooz Ahmad Bhat, discussed the genesis and importance of the celebration of World Fisheries Day. He highlighted the challenges and issues like low fish production, slow fish growth, high input cost, less fish diversification for culture practices, destruction of aquatic resources, pollution and climate change etc. being faced by the coldwater fisheries sector.
Dr Mohd Ashraf Rather, Organizer of the event shed light on the theme of the Seminar. Prof Irfan Ahmad, Head, Div. of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology presented the vote of thanks.

KR Desk