Foundation day celebration @Visakhapatnam Centre of ICAR-CIFT

Chief Guest Dr. K.S. Krishna being greeted	Lighting of the lamp

The Visakhapatnam Research Centre of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology celebrated its 67th Foundation Day on April 29, 2024. Dr. K.S. Krishna, a distinguished Professor and Dean of the School of Sciences at GITAM Deemed University, honoured the event as the Chief Guest. During his speech, he praised the institute's incredible journey since it began in 1957, highlighting the importance of studying ocean dynamics and advocating for the protection of our seas. Dr. Krishna emphasized how crucial it is to manage ocean resources sustainably to ensure the well-being of our marine ecosystems.

Before this, Dr. U. Sreedhar, Scientist-in-Charge, Visakhapatnam Research Centre of ICAR-CIFT, talked about the important achievements of ICAR-CIFT. In his speech he mention that the 67^th Foundation Day of ICAR-CIFT represents not just an institution, but reflects the spirit of innovation, commitment, and progress that has greatly influenced our fisheries sector. For over sixty years, ICAR-CIFT has been leading the way in groundbreaking research, technological advancements and sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture. From the shores to inland waters, the institute has been pivotal in transforming the fisheries industry and boosting the productivity.

Dr. Joe K. Kizhakudan, who heads the Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI, was the Guest of Honour at the event. During his speech, he praised the efforts of ICAR-CIFT in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. He also encouraged students to get involved in ocean conservation and work towards protecting the health of our oceans.

On the auspicious occasion of the 67^th Foundation Day, the Visakhapatnam Research Centre of ICAR-CIFT felicitated the most senior retired personnel of the centre. As part of the celebrabations, a science project competition themed "Balancing Ocean Health and Human Needs" was organized for high school students, drawing enthusiastic participation from various schools in Visakhapatnam. GVMC High School, Madhuranagar, clinched the first prize, followed by St. Aloysius Anglo Indian High School and Visakha Valley School securing the second and third prizes, respectively. Dr. K.S. Krishna and Dr. Joe K. Kizhakudan presented the prizes and certificates to the winners.

An open house day was orchestrated at the institute, where the Fishing Technology, Fish Processing, and Biotechnology laboratories were unveiled to students and the general public. Approximately 100 students and civilians availed themselves of the opportunity to visit the centre, with scientists and technical staff providing explained on ongoing research activities. Officials from the Department of Fisheries, Fishery Survey of India (FSI), CIFNET, NIFPHTT, EIA, MPEDA, NETFISH, NIO and Andhra University graced the celebrations.

Dr. Viji P., Senior Scientist, ICAR-CIFT welcomed the gathering. Dr. Jesmi Debbarama, Senior Scientist, ICAR-CIFT, expressed a vote of thanks on behalf of the organizing institution. Later in the evening, there was a delightful cultural program where staff members and their families showcased their talents. The evening started with a melodious Telugu Carnatic Sangeetham song and from there, it was a commotion of performances representing different cultures. There were energetic Sambalpuri and Garba dance, a hilarious Hindi comedy skit, and soulful recitals of poems and stories. Later in the evening melodious songs of Hindi, Malayalam, Telugu, and Oriya were sung by the staff, adding a touch of diversity and joy to the evening.

Section of the Audience	Shri.P.M.Patnaik, RTD staff being felicitated
Smt.DAL.Ananthalaxmi being felicitated at home( Due to ill health)	A voice recording of Smt.DAL.Ananthalaxmi being played on the foundation Day
Science Exhibition	Open house
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GVMC High School, Madhuranagar getting first prize in Science Exhibition	St. Aloysius Anglo Indian High School getting second prize in Science Exhibition
Sambalpuri dance during cultural evening	Humorous skit during cultural evening