ICAR-CIBA signed an MoU with HIET (Deemed to be University), Chennai, on 24th July 2025, to promote collaborative research and explore new avenues to improve the Advanced aquaculture technologies and career research and education opportunities . The MoU was signed by Dr. Muthukumar Subramanian, Registrar of HIET, and Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA.
Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA, highlighted the growth of the fisheries sector and stated that the MoU has addressed several challenges faced in the aquaculture sector through innovative solutions by the adoption of Nanotechnologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Automation, Machine Learning (ML), and Robotics.
Dr. Susan Elias. Professor & Director Research, HIET, explained the proposed plan of work and the facilities available at the institution. She narrated that these initiatives aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industrial application to provide advanced career research opportunities in the aquaculture sector. This type of integration of advanced engineering technologies is not only modernizing this sector but also creating new opportunities in Smart Aquaculture. She also congratulated the team from both the organisations to bring the BIRAC project granted along with other achievements.
Dr. Puspamitra Panigrahi, Scientist – F, briefed about the application of nano-sensors for the sustainable intensification of different aquaculture systems. Nanoparticles can be designed to absorb/sense pollutants and volatile organic compounds from aquaculture wastewater, thus improving water quality in aquaculture systems, water treatment, and bio-imaging,nanofertiliser for precise release of nutrients for improving productivity and enhancing conditions for the growth of aquatic organism/plants.
Dr. Anil K Thakur, Professor – CeHy put forth ideas to explore usage of infra-red rays to achieve higher productivity, precision monitoring, and efficient resource management in aquaculture. Mr. G Dinesh Kumar, Assistant Professor (S.G) – ANRO discussed the automated feeding to minimize the feed waste and enhance growth, use of drones to monitor feeding activity and animal behaviour.
Dr. G. Muthukumaran, Professor – CENSE (HEAD) highlighted the AI models to identify fish species, sizes, and health conditions quickly. Even AI algorithms analyse vast datasets to recommend optimized feed schedules, harvest time, and disease control measures. The Scientists and Heads of Divisions of ICAR-CIBA and the faculty of HIET, Chennai, were present on this occasion. The event was organized by the Institute Technology Management Unit (ITMU) CIBA, and Dr. P.K. Patil, OIC, ITMU-ABI expressed the vote of thanks.
