Rupala to Launch ‘Report Fish Disease’ App Developed by ICAR-NBFGR under NSPAAD

In a bid to enhance the reporting of aquatic animal diseases and bolster the farmer-based disease reporting system, the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, will officially launch the Report Fish Disease (RFD) App today at Krishi Bhawan.

The event will be attended by Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, along with senior officers from DARE, ICAR, and NSPADD. Developed by ICAR-NBFGR under the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD), which is funded by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India, this app aims to revolutionize disease reporting in the agricultural and aquaculture sectors.

The RFD app provides farmers with a convenient platform to report the occurrence of diseases in finfish, shrimps, and molluscs on their farms. By connecting farmers with field-level officers and fish health experts, the app facilitates the exchange of information and enables farmers to receive scientific advice for effective disease management. The data collected through the app will be stored on both temporal and spatial scales, allowing for the mapping of disease cases.

The launch of the RFD app is expected to have a significant positive impact on the farming community. Farmers will benefit from improved reporting mechanisms, scientific guidance, and reduced losses resulting from diseases. Consequently, this will contribute to increasing farmers' income and promoting the sustainability and resilience of aquaculture systems. Furthermore, the app will play a vital role in fish disease management by facilitating early detection, rapid response, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. It will minimize the adverse effects of fish diseases on fish populations, industry, and ecosystems.

The aquaculture sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with total export earnings estimated at approximately Rs. 57,586.48 crores during the 2021-22 period. However, diseases pose a significant challenge to the further development of this sector. Early detection of diseases is crucial for their eradication and containment. Unfortunately, many cases of diseases in aquaculture go unreported due to the lack of a field-level disease reporting mechanism. Recognizing this need, the Report Fish Disease App serves as a vital bridge between farmers, field-level officers, and fish health experts.

By leveraging technology and creating a seamless communication network, this innovative app will streamline disease reporting, improve disease management, and ensure the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.

To participate in the program, please click on the link provided below:

• Link: https://dof-vc.webex.com/dof-vc/j.php?MTID=mc18ca9bbedcc19b4210d410e774ef094

• Date & Time: Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, 3:00 PM | Delhi

• Meeting number: 2552 235 3903

• Password: Y4pJ2AmKdG2 (94752265 from video systems)