ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai organized a hands-on training programme on “Omics data analysis” during 31 August to 4 September 2026 at ICAR-CIBA. The five-day training programme was designed to provide the participants with theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the analyses and interpretation of high-throughput omics datasets, with particular emphasis on prokaryotic genome assembly, transcriptomics and metagenomics. A total of 20 participants (14 female and 6 male) including researchers and professionals interested in applying omics and bioinformatics approaches to biological research participated.
The training was organized with an objective of strengthening capacity of researchers, scientists and professionals in application of modern bioinformatics approaches for biological data analysis. With an increasing use of next-generation sequencing technologies in aquaculture research, the ability to analyse and interpret large-scale genomic and omics datasets has become essential.
The training programme commenced on 31 August 2026 with a formal inaugural programme. During the inaugural session, the Dr. M. Kailasam, Director, ICAR-CIBA, highlighted the growing importance of advanced molecular and bioinformatics technologies in contemporary aquaculture research. The importance of capacity building in bioinformatics was also emphasized, particularly in view of the rapidly increasing volume and complexity of sequencing data generated through modern sequencing platforms. The training was considered an important initiative for enabling researchers to effectively utilize such datasets for addressing emerging challenges in aquaculture and agriculture. As part of the inaugural programme, the training manual prepared for the programme was formally released.
While participants were exposed to basic analytical tools like Linux, R and Python, emphasis was given to prokaryotic genome assembly, transcriptomics and metagenomics. The hands-on component helped participants understand how raw sequencing data can be systematically processed, analysed and interpreted. The practical exposure was intended to improve participants’ confidence in handling omics datasets and applying bioinformatics workflows in their own research.
The training programme was concluded on 4 September 2026 with a formal valedictory programme. The organizers acknowledged the active participation and enthusiasm of all 20 participants throughout the training. Course Director Dr. K. Vinaya Kumar presented a detailed report on the training programme. Dr. P.K. Patil, In-charge, PME stressed the need to get equipped with bioinformatics skills and incorporate them to present research programs. Dr. K. Ambasankar, Course convener and Head, Nutrition Genetics and Biotechnology Division (NGBD) advised all the trainees to apply the learned knowledge in their own studies. Dr. M. Kailasam, Director, ICAR-CIBA emphasized the importance of bioinformatics in the present era and advised trainees to apply high-end technologies towards solving biological problems. Programme was ended by vote of thanks proposed by Dr. J. Ashok Kumar. The scientists of NGBD division, J. Ashok Kumar, K. Vinaya Kumar and Mrs.Mary Lini conducted this hands-on training.
