ICAR-CIFRI Signs Transfer License Agreement to Enhance In-situ Fish Fingerling Production

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) in Barrackpore, Kolkata, has signed a transfer license agreement for the ICAR-CIFRI Pen HDPE technology with Agrinnovate India Ltd., New Delhi, and M/s M. R. Aquatech, Bhubaneswar. This agreement marks a significant advancement in inland fisheries. The technology, which enhances in-situ fish fingerling production for reservoirs and wetlands, was previously commercialized and is being licensed for the second time.  

Dr. B. K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, highlighted that this marks the commercialization of the institute’s eighth technology in the last five years. He emphasized the importance of this innovation, which allows for high-quality fingerling production directly in the aquatic environment, ensuring that reservoirs and wetlands are efficiently stocked without compromising on fish quality.

The event was graced by Subhash Chandra, Director of the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, who acknowledged the institute’s continued efforts in advancing sustainable fisheries.

Dr. B. K. Behera, Chief Executive of the National Fisheries Development Board, Hyderabad, remarked that this technology will revolutionize fish production methods in India. The Pen HDPE system supports eco-friendly production directly in natural water bodies by eliminating the need for conventional hatcheries.

Dr. Praveen Malik, CEO of Agrinnovate India Ltd., reiterated the transformative potential of the technology, stating that it will strengthen India's fisheries sector by meeting the growing demand for quality fish seed.

The non-exclusive license is granted for a five-year period, allowing M/s M. R. Aquatech to manufacture and sell the technology across India, further enhancing the country’s fish production capabilities.