Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) was established in the year 1987 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, under the aegis of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The institute is committed to research, education, and development in freshwater aquaculture with a major emphasis on fish breeding, genetics, nutrition, health, and sustainable farming practices. It was earlier a part of the Pond Culture Division of the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Cuttack, and was elevated to an independent institute and given its current name in 1987. The institute serves as the Lead Centre for ‘Carp Farming in India’ under the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), operating under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs in aquaculture and fisheries science. These programs provide advanced expertise in freshwater aquaculture, fish genetics, fish health management, feed development, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability. Candidates should hold a postgraduate degree in fisheries science or allied sciences in order to be considered for admission.
Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture Bhubaneswar has well-established experimental infrastructure facilities, such as research ponds, hatcheries, and training centers dispersed over its campus. The institute also has up-to-date laboratories for fish genetics, nutrition, biotechnology, and water quality testing. Students and scientists have a well-equipped library with books, journals, and periodicals related to aquaculture and fisheries. Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture also conducts training programs, farmer workshops, and seminars for technology transfer and practical knowledge sharing among students, researchers, and practitioners of aquaculture.
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CIFA Bhubaneswar Highlights 2025
CIFA Bhubaneswar Courses 2025
Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar, offers its flagship program, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aquaculture. It spans a minimum of three years. The program is aimed at imparting advanced knowledge and training in disciplines like fish genetics, breeding, nutrition, biotechnology, fish health management, and sustainable aquaculture practices. To be eligible, candidates need to possess a postgraduate degree in Fisheries Science or a related field.
CIFA Bhubaneswar Admission 2025
The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar, conducts admission mostly on the merit of ICAR entrance examinations and academic records. Candidates can apply online through the official website of the institute or visit the campus in person for proper guidance. The key steps of the CIFA admission process are provided below:
CIFA Bhubaneswar FAQs
Where is the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture located?
The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) is located in Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It is about 12 km away from Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 14 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport.
When was the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture established?
CIFA Bhubaneswar was established in 1987 under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It evolved from the Pond Culture Division of CIFRI, Cuttack, and is committed to freshwater aquaculture research, education, and development.
Is CIFA Bhubaneswar approved by any regulatory agency?
Yes, CIFA Bhubaneswar functions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It is a national research institute known for freshwater aquaculture, genetics, nutrition, and eco-friendly fish farming technologies for the development of India's aquaculture.
What courses does the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture provide?
CIFA Bhubaneswar provides Ph.D. courses in Aquaculture and allied fishery sciences. It also conducts short-term training programs, workshops, and skill-development courses for students, researchers, and fish farmers to develop knowledge and practical skills in aquaculture.
What are the eligibility conditions for Ph.D. at Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture Bhubaneswar?
Candidates should possess a master's degree in Fisheries Science or allied disciplines to be eligible for Ph.D. courses at Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture. Admission is based on ICAR entrance exams and interviews and academic merit.
What facilities does the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture offer?
Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture has well-equipped laboratories, experimental research ponds, hatcheries, a library, training centers, and modern classrooms. Hands-on training, advanced research, and practical demonstrations for fish farming and aquaculture biotechnology are also facilitated by the institute.
Is practical training facilitated at the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture?
Yes, CIFA Bhubaneswar emphasises hands-on practical training in laboratory, hatchery, and experimental pond conditions. Students and farmers acquire firsthand experience in fish genetics, health, feed formulation, aquaculture biotechnology, and sustainable farming.
Are extension programs arranged at the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture?
Yes, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture organizes workshops, farmer training, and awareness seminars on a regular basis. These are outreach activities and include technology transfer, sustainable aquaculture practices, fish breeding, feed management, and disease prevention measures for the benefit of larger communities.
Does the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture offer career counseling?
Yes, CIFA Bhubaneswar facilitates career development through research studies, internships, training schemes, and industry experience. It directs students and researchers towards careers in fisheries research, aquaculture management, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for higher education.
