In a major step toward advancing shrimp aquaculture, ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Kachchh, Gujarat. The partnership aims to conduct contract research on the efficacy of “AQUALAABH,” a natural mineral mix, and its variants in shrimp farming. The research will be carried out at ICAR-CIBA’s Navsari Gujarat Research Centre (NGRC), Navsari, Gujarat.
Agrocel Industries, a leader in India’s bromine-based marine chemical industry, specializes in minerals, specialty chemicals, and plant and animal nutrition. Its product “AQUALAABH,” derived from seawater minerals, is designed to enhance shrimp farming productivity and sustainability.
India, the world’s second-largest aquaculture producer and a top shrimp exporter, relies heavily on this sector for sustainable livelihoods, supporting over 30 million people, particularly from marginalized communities. Recognizing its critical role, ICAR-CIBA Director Dr. Kuldeep K Lal emphasized the importance of collaborations between private enterprises and research institutions to drive innovation and validate solutions.
This MoU underscores ICAR-CIBA’s commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and practical applications in the aquaculture industry. By leveraging ICAR-CIBA’s expertise, the partnership seeks to improve product effectiveness, boost shrimp farming productivity, and promote sustainable practices.
The collaboration represents a significant step toward enhancing India’s position as a global leader in aquaculture while ensuring sustainable development for the shrimp farming sector.