ICAR-CIBA Signs MoU with Agrocel Industries to Enhance Shrimp Farming

In a significant effort to enhance the shrimp aquaculture sector, ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Kachchh, Gujarat. The collaboration focuses on conducting contract research to assess the efficacy of "AQUALAABH," a natural mineral mix, and its variants in shrimp farming. The research will be carried out at ICAR-CIBA’s Navsari Gujarat Research Centre (NGRC) in Navsari, Gujarat.

Agrocel Industries is an Indian company specializing in minerals, specialty chemicals, and plant and animal nutrition. It holds a leading position in India’s bromine-based marine chemical industry. “AQUALAABH”, a seawater-derived natural mineral mix produced by Agrocel in Kachchh, is designed to enhance shrimp farming productivity and sustainability.

India, the world’s second-largest aquaculture producer, is also among the top shrimp-producing and seafood-exporting nations. This sector plays a critical role in providing sustainable livelihoods to over 30 million people, primarily from marginalized and vulnerable communities. Recognizing the importance of strengthening this sector, Dr. Kuldeep K Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, highlighted the value of collaborations between private enterprises and research institutions to drive innovation and validate solutions scientifically.

The MoU signifies a commitment to leveraging ICAR-CIBA’s expertise for the scientific evaluation and validation of Agrocel’s products. As the nodal agency for the development of brackishwater aquaculture in India, ICAR-CIBA aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications in the aquaculture industry.

This partnership is expected to enhance productivity, improve product effectiveness, and contribute to the sustainable development of the shrimp farming sector.