Fisheries Day celebrations conclude at vet varsity

The College of Fisheries (COF) at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana, witnessed vibrant festivities as the two-day World Fisheries Day (WFD) celebrations concluded with an array of educational and cultural activities.

The second day began with the ceremonial stocking of fish fingerlings at the instructional-cum-Research Farm of the COF by chief guest Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice-Chancellor.

Students enthralled by aquatic diversity

Medical students from Government Senior Secondary Smart School, PAU, BCM Arya Model Senior Secondary School, Police DAV Public School and Shifaly International School visited COF for an educational showcase. They explored aquatic biodiversity and its role in food, nutrition and livelihood security at global, national and regional levels. Many expressed excitement about pursuing fisheries science as a career option after Class XII.

The celebrations featured a poster-making competition on the theme ‘Conserve Aquatic Resources – Save Life’, with 55 entries from COF students. A recipe competition saw 10 entries from GADVASU, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI).

Winners were honoured with certificates, souvenirs and cash prizes for their innovative ideas and culinary skills.

Fish delicacies draw crowds

Stalls showcasing value-added fish and shellfish products remained a major attraction. Prepared by undergraduate and postgraduate students along with budding entrepreneurs trained at COF, stalls offered delicacies such as fish soup, kababs, shrimp popcorns, fish fingers, pickles, samosas and fish fry. Visitors thronged the counters, relishing the diverse offerings.

Focus on sustainability

The celebrations emphasised the importance of sustainable fisheries and conservation of aquatic ecosystems. The activities also promoted fish consumption while expressing solidarity with fishermen and fish farmers. The event aligned with the national WFD-2025 theme: “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Value Addition in Seafood Exports”.

With enthusiastic participation from students, faculty and the public, the World Fisheries Day celebrations at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University concluded on a high note, reinforcing the message of conservation, innovation and community engagement in fisheries.