ARDF–IAFA NATIONAL FISHERIES & AQUACULTURE EXCELLENCE AWARDS – 2026
Celebrating the Pioneers | Recognising Excellence | Inspiring Innovation
A Special National Initiative on the Occasion of World Fisheries Day – 21 November 2026
RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE | ENCOURAGING INNOVATION | HONOURING CONTRIBUTIONS
INTRODUCTION
The Indian Aquaculture & Fisheries Association (IAFA), with the institutional support of AgroVet Research & Development Foundation (ARDF) and media partnership with Pashudhan Praharee, proudly announces the ARDF–IAFA National Fisheries & Aquaculture Excellence Awards – 2026.
This national initiative is dedicated to recognising outstanding contributions, promoting scientific knowledge, encouraging entrepreneurship and celebrating professional excellence in fisheries, aquaculture, fish production, research, technology development and allied sectors.
India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector plays a vital role in nutritional security, livelihood generation, rural development, employment creation, exports and the national economy. With growing opportunities in scientific fish farming, modern aquaculture technologies, entrepreneurship and sustainable production, the sector has enormous potential to contribute to India’s economic and social development.
The 2026 initiative features three distinguished national award categories instituted in memory of eminent personalities and pioneers whose contributions have helped shape the development of Indian fisheries and aquaculture.
These awards aim to recognise not only scientific and academic achievements but also practical innovations, successful enterprises, progressive fish farmers, technology developers and institutions making meaningful contributions to the fisheries sector.
The entire nomination, application, scrutiny and evaluation process will be conducted online. The results of the awards will be announced on 21 November 2026, on the occasion of World Fisheries Day.
The selected awardees will be physically honoured with awards, citations and mementoes during the VAI–AGRI–VET–BIOFOOD 2026 Conference on 11 December 2026 at MGM Hills, Gandheli, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
IAFA invites fisheries scientists, researchers, academicians, entrepreneurs, fish farmers, aquaculture professionals, hatchery operators, industry leaders, institutions and other eligible contributors from across India to participate in this national initiative.
THREE DISTINGUISHED NATIONAL AWARD CATEGORIES – 2026
1. Prof. Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri Memorial National Fisheries & Aquaculture Excellence Award – 2026
Honouring the Pioneer of Induced Fish Breeding in India
Prof. Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri (1921–2014) is remembered as one of the greatest pioneers of modern Indian fisheries and aquaculture. He is widely recognised for his pioneering contribution to induced fish breeding in India and the development of scientific aquaculture.
His historic contribution to the successful induced breeding of Indian major carps on 10 July 1957, using pituitary extract, laid the scientific foundation for modern hatchery-based fish seed production in India.
This breakthrough transformed freshwater aquaculture and opened new opportunities for large-scale fish seed production, scientific fish farming and the expansion of India’s fisheries sector.
His contribution remains a landmark in the history of Indian aquaculture and continues to inspire fisheries scientists, researchers, hatchery operators and fish farmers.
This award seeks to recognise individuals and institutions demonstrating outstanding contributions to fish breeding, hatchery technology, freshwater aquaculture, fish seed production and innovative practices that have strengthened India’s fisheries sector.
Key areas of recognition:
- Induced fish breeding and reproductive biotechnology.
- Fish seed production and hatchery management.
- Freshwater aquaculture development.
- Innovations in breeding and seed production technologies.
- Scientific fish farming and production enhancement.
- Sustainable aquaculture practices.
- Development of innovative and farmer-friendly technologies.
- Contributions to fisheries extension and capacity building.
2. Dr. K. H. Alikunhi Memorial National Fisheries Science & Development Award – 2026
Honouring Excellence in Fisheries Science, Research and Development
Dr. K. H. Alikunhi (1918–2010) was an eminent Indian fisheries scientist whose contributions to fisheries research, freshwater aquaculture, fish breeding, scientific education and fisheries development have had a lasting impact.
He served in important scientific and academic positions, including at the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Barrackpore, and as Director of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai.
Dr. Alikunhi, along with Prof. Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri, was associated with the historic breakthrough in induced breeding of Indian major carps in 1957, a landmark achievement in the development of modern Indian aquaculture.
His work and scientific leadership contributed to strengthening fisheries research, education, production and management in India.
This award recognises outstanding scientists, researchers, academicians, fisheries professionals and institutions whose work has contributed significantly to fisheries science, research, education, conservation, technology development and sustainable fisheries management.
Key areas of recognition:
- Outstanding contributions to fisheries science and research.
- Freshwater, brackishwater and marine fisheries development.
- Fisheries education, teaching and academic leadership.
- Scientific innovations and applied research.
- Fish breeding, production and resource management.
- Fisheries conservation and sustainable management.
- Scientific publications, books and technical literature.
- Fisheries extension, technology transfer and capacity building.
- Institutional development and policy-oriented contributions.
3. Dr. Arun Krishnan National Aquaculture Entrepreneurship Award – 2026
Recognising Leadership, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Aquaculture
Dr. Arun Krishnan is remembered as one of the important pioneers associated with the development of India’s Blue Revolution. Along with other eminent fisheries pioneers, his contributions helped strengthen the scientific, institutional and developmental foundations of India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The Blue Revolution represented a major effort towards modernising fisheries, expanding aquaculture production, promoting scientific fish farming and strengthening the livelihoods of fish farmers.
The Dr. Arun Krishnan National Aquaculture Entrepreneurship Award was originally instituted by Pashudhan Praharee in 2020 to recognise entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership in aquaculture.
The 2026 award continues this initiative by recognising individuals, entrepreneurs, startups, enterprises and institutions whose innovative ideas, business leadership and professional achievements are contributing to the growth and modernisation of India’s aquaculture industry.
Key areas of recognition:
- Outstanding aquaculture entrepreneurship and business leadership.
- Innovative commercial fish farming models.
- Modern aquaculture technologies and production systems.
- Biofloc, Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and cage culture.
- Integrated fish farming and diversified aquaculture.
- Hatchery development and quality fish seed production.
- Fish processing, value addition and marketing.
- Fisheries startups and technology-based enterprises.
- Employment generation and farmer empowerment.
- Women and youth entrepreneurship in fisheries.
- Sustainable and climate-resilient aquaculture practices.
- Contribution to domestic markets, exports and value-chain development.
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE AWARDS
- Recognise outstanding contributions to fisheries science, aquaculture and fish production.
- Honour eminent scientists and pioneers whose work has shaped Indian fisheries development.
- Encourage research, innovation and technology adoption.
- Promote entrepreneurship and investment in aquaculture.
- Recognise progressive fish farmers and successful aquaculture models.
- Encourage young researchers, professionals and entrepreneurs.
- Promote sustainable, responsible and climate-resilient fisheries.
- Strengthen the connection between research institutions, industry and farming communities.
- Highlight contributions to employment, nutrition security and rural livelihoods.
- Inspire the next generation to contribute to the growth of India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Nominations are invited from eligible individuals, professionals, entrepreneurs and institutions whose contributions are relevant to the objectives of the respective award categories.
- Fisheries scientists and researchers.
- University faculty members and academicians.
- Research scholars and PhD holders.
- Fisheries and aquaculture professionals.
- Fisheries department officials and technical experts.
- Progressive fish farmers and aquaculture practitioners.
- Hatchery owners and fish seed producers.
- Aquaculture entrepreneurs and startup founders.
- Fish processing, marketing and export professionals.
- Fisheries cooperatives, FPOs and producer organisations.
- NGOs, societies, research organisations and institutions.
- Women and youth entrepreneurs in fisheries and aquaculture.
- Professionals contributing to fisheries extension, conservation and sustainable development.
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- The nominee must have demonstrable achievements or contributions relevant to the selected award.
- The nomination must be supported by appropriate documentary evidence.
- Professional experience, qualifications, achievements and contributions should correspond to the objectives of the award.
- Both individual and institutional nominations may be considered, wherever applicable.
- Practical achievements, grassroots contributions and innovative work will also receive due consideration.
The selection committee will assess nominations on merit, impact, innovation, relevance and supporting evidence.
IMPORTANT DATES – 2026
| Particulars | Schedule |
| Announcement of Awards | 1 November 2026 |
| Last date for online nominations | 15 November 2026 |
| Online scrutiny and evaluation | 16–19 November 2026 |
| Finalisation of awardees | 20 November 2026 |
| Announcement of award results | 21 November 2026 |
| Occasion | World Fisheries Day |
| Nomination and evaluation mode | Online |
| Physical Award Presentation Ceremony | 11 December 2026 |
| Conference | VAI–AGRI–VET–BIOFOOD 2026 |
| Venue | MGM Hills, Gandheli, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India |
Applicants are advised to submit their nominations well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical or documentation issues.
REGISTRATION FEE & PAYMENT DETAILS
A registration fee of ₹500 per award category/application is applicable.
Applicants wishing to submit nominations for more than one award category must submit a separate application and pay the prescribed registration fee separately for each category.
| Number of Applications | Total Fee |
| One | ₹500 |
| Two | ₹1,000 |
| Three | ₹1,500 |
Note: For every additional application, ₹500 shall be payable separately. The payment receipt or transaction proof must be attached with each respective application.
IMPORTANT – NON-REFUNDABLE FEE
The registration fee is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances, including withdrawal, cancellation, disqualification, non-selection or rejection of the application. Submission of an application shall be deemed acceptance of this condition.
BANK TRANSFER DETAILS
Account Name: PASHUDHAN PRAHAREE
Bank: IDBI Bank
Account Number: 1131102000001779
IFSC Code: IBKL0001311
UPI PAYMENT
Google Pay / Paytm / PhonePe
UPI Mobile Number: 8092877290
Applicants must retain the transaction receipt and submit proof of payment along with their nomination application.
TERMS & CONDITIONS – AWARD NOMINATIONS
- Each nomination must be submitted using the prescribed application form for the relevant award category.
- A separate application form and registration fee of ₹500 must be submitted for each award category.
- The nomination must clearly describe the nominee’s professional background, qualifications, experience, achievements and contributions relevant to the selected award.
- Supporting documents such as an updated CV, certificates, reports, publications, photographs, project details, testimonials and other relevant evidence should be attached wherever applicable.
- Individual as well as institutional nominations may be considered, depending on the award category.
- Where required, the recommender must provide professional details and a supporting recommendation statement.
- Incomplete applications or nominations without essential supporting documents may not be considered.
- The applicant or nominator shall be responsible for the accuracy and authenticity of all information submitted.
- The selection committee may seek additional information, documents or clarification wherever necessary.
- The organisers reserve the right to verify the claims, credentials and achievements mentioned in the nomination.
- The decision of the jury or selection committee shall be final and binding.
- The organisers reserve the right to reject any nomination that does not fulfil the prescribed eligibility criteria or submission requirements.
- The organisers reserve the right not to confer an award in any category if suitable nominations are not received or the nominations do not meet the required standards.
- Awardees may be requested to provide consent for publication of their names, photographs, professional profiles and achievements through IAFA, ARDF, Pashudhan Praharee and associated platforms.
- The prescribed registration fee is non-refundable, irrespective of the outcome of the nomination.
- Submission of a nomination does not guarantee selection or conferment of an award.
- The nomination, application, scrutiny and evaluation process shall be conducted online.
- The results of the awards will be announced on 21 November 2026, on the occasion of World Fisheries Day.
- Selected awardees will be physically honoured with awards, citations and mementoes during the VAI–AGRI–VET–BIOFOOD 2026 Conference on 11 December 2026 at MGM Hills, Gandheli, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
- Selected awardees will be informed about the physical award presentation and related arrangements through their registered email address or mobile number. Their participation will be subject to the instructions communicated by the organisers.
- The organisers reserve the right to modify the schedule or related arrangements, if required. Any such changes will be communicated through official channels.
APPLICATION & SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
All award nominations must be sent by email to:
pashudhanpraharee@gmail.com
Applicants must clearly mention the name of the award category in the subject line of their email.
Suggested Email Subject: Nomination – [Name of Award] – National Fisheries & Aquaculture Excellence Awards 2026
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR AWARD NOMINATIONS
- Duly completed award nomination/application form.
- Updated CV or professional profile of the nominee.
- Brief professional biography and summary of achievements.
- A detailed nomination statement highlighting the nominee’s major contributions and impact.
- Supporting certificates, reports, research papers, publications or project documents.
- Photographs of relevant activities, achievements, projects or institutional initiatives, wherever applicable.
- Recommender’s statement, wherever required.
- Proof of registration fee payment.
- Institutional profile and relevant supporting documents in case of institutional nominations.
- Any additional documents prescribed in the respective application form.
Applicants are encouraged to submit clear and properly organised documents to facilitate evaluation by the selection committee.
DECLARATION BY THE APPLICANT / NOMINATOR
Every nomination must be accompanied by a declaration confirming that:
- The information provided in the application is true and correct to the best of the applicant’s knowledge.
- The nominee’s achievements and professional contributions are genuine and supported by the submitted documents.
- The applicant has obtained the nominee’s consent wherever required.
- The applicant accepts the eligibility criteria, registration fee conditions and all terms and conditions of the awards.
- The applicant understands that the registration fee is non-refundable.
- The applicant understands that submission of a nomination does not guarantee selection.
- The decision of the selection committee shall be final and binding.
The declaration must include the applicant’s full name, designation, institution/organisation, postal address, mobile number, email address, signature and date.
ORGANISATIONAL COLLABORATION & INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT
Organising Association
INDIAN AQUACULTURE & FISHERIES ASSOCIATION (IAFA)
A national platform dedicated to promoting fisheries science, aquaculture development, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable growth in the fisheries sector.
Initiative & Institutional Support
AGROVET RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION (ARDF)
Website: www.agrovetfoundation.com
Promoting research, innovation, capacity building and sustainable development in veterinary science, animal husbandry, fisheries and allied sectors.
Media & Publication Partner
PASHUDHAN PRAHAREE
A dedicated media and knowledge platform for India’s animal husbandry, livestock, poultry, fisheries and allied sectors.
Website: www.pashudhanpraharee.com
The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to recognising professional excellence, promoting scientific knowledge, encouraging innovation and strengthening India’s fisheries and aquaculture ecosystem.
PHYSICAL AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY
The selected awardees of the ARDF–IAFA National Fisheries & Aquaculture Excellence Awards – 2026 will be physically honoured during the following conference:
VAI–AGRI–VET–BIOFOOD 2026 CONFERENCE
Date: 11 December 2026
Venue: MGM Hills, Gandheli, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India
The award presentation will provide an opportunity to bring together distinguished fisheries scientists, academicians, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, professionals and institutional representatives to celebrate excellence and encourage the future growth of India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The organisers will communicate further details regarding the award presentation to the selected awardees.
CONTACT & COMMUNICATION
INDIAN AQUACULTURE & FISHERIES ASSOCIATION (IAFA)
Organising Association
AGROVET RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION (ARDF)
Initiative & Institutional Support
Email: agrovetfoundation@gmail.com
Contact Number: +91 8092877290
Website: www.agrovetfoundation.com
PASHUDHAN PRAHAREE
Media & Publication Partner
Website: www.pashudhanpraharee.com
Email: pashudhanpraharee@gmail.com
Contact Number: +91 9431309542
For application-related queries, clarifications and submission support, applicants may contact the organisers through the above communication channels.
RECOGNISING THE PIONEERS. INSPIRING THE FUTURE.
The ARDF–IAFA National Fisheries & Aquaculture Excellence Awards – 2026 represent more than a series of recognitions. They are a national initiative to honour the pioneers, celebrate scientific achievements, encourage entrepreneurship and inspire meaningful contributions to India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
As we observe World Fisheries Day on 21 November 2026, let us recognise the scientists who expanded the frontiers of fisheries knowledge, the professionals who transformed research into practice, the entrepreneurs who created new opportunities and the fish farmers whose efforts contribute to national nutrition security and rural prosperity.
Every outstanding contribution deserves recognition.
Every meaningful innovation deserves encouragement.
Every successful enterprise deserves appreciation.
Every dedicated fisheries professional deserves a platform.
COME FORWARD. NOMINATE DESERVING PROFESSIONALS.
CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE. BE A PART OF THIS NATIONAL INITIATIVE.
ONLINE NOMINATIONS – PHYSICAL AWARD PRESENTATION
Last Date for Nominations: 15 November 2026
Results Announcement: 21 November 2026 – World Fisheries Day
Physical Award Presentation: 11 December 2026
VAI–AGRI–VET–BIOFOOD 2026 CONFERENCE
MGM Hills, Gandheli, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India.
ARDF–IAFA NATIONAL FISHERIES & AQUACULTURE EXCELLENCE AWARDS – 2026
Recognising Excellence | Encouraging Innovation | Honouring Contributions
