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Brainstorming Workshop on “Scientific Farming of GIFT Tilapia” to be Held in Capital on May 21

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Fisheries Minister Ramvichar Netam to Inaugurate the Session

Raipur, May 2026 : A one-day brainstorming workshop on the theme “Scientific Farming of GIFT Tilapia” will be organised on May 21 at Hotel Babylon, VIP Road, Raipur, starting at 10 a.m. The event is being jointly organised under the aegis of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Department of Fisheries, Government of India, and the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).

The workshop will be inaugurated by Agriculture Development and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ramvichar Netam. The session will focus on scientific methods of GIFT (Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia) cultivation and will include detailed discussions on linking the state’s inland water resources with global export value chains.

It is a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh that under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, the state has been recognised as the only Tilapia cluster in the country among 34 clusters notified by the Union Government.

India’s marine products exports reached a historic level of Rs 72,325.82 crore in the financial year 2025–26. To further accelerate this growth, special emphasis is now being placed on the scientific cultivation of species such as Tilapia, which have strong potential in both domestic and international markets.

The programme aims to explore advanced aquaculture techniques, improve production efficiency, and enhance export competitiveness by promoting sustainable fish farming practices in inland water bodies.

Senior officials including the Agriculture Production Commissioner and departmental secretary are also expected to participate in the workshop, along with experts, scientists, and stakeholders from the fisheries sector.

The deliberations are expected to provide key policy inputs and practical strategies for strengthening the fisheries ecosystem in Chhattisgarh, boosting farmer incomes, and integrating local production with global seafood trade networks.