प्रमुखज्यूको मन्तव्य

The National Fishery Research Centre (NFRC), Godawari, Lalitpur (formerly the Fisheries Research Division, Godawari, Lalitpur) was established in 1993 following the creation of NARC in 1991. The primary goal of the Centre is to advance research, build capacity, and foster linkages and partnerships in the fisheries sector. This annual report provides a compilation summary results of the activities completed of both on-station and on-farm research works and production programs during the fiscal year 2080/81 (2023/24). The major research activities of centre was stock improvement of cultivable asala (Schizothorax richardsonii) based on morphological and genetic studies, fish species characterization and domestication efforts, inventory and macrohabitat studies of wetland fish fauna, evaluation of drugs for controlling pathogenic bacteria and parasites, disease surveillance and management, integrated bedding materials using nitrogen-fixing and phosphorus-solubilizing bacterial consortia to enhance carp culture production and productivity and quality assessment of fish product (physicochemical, microbial and sensory changes). Additionally, the report highlights the diversification of quality fish products and summarizes outreach research activities undertaken by the centre. The participatory research programs implemented are playing an increasingly significant role in supporting the growth of carp and trout farming across the country. It is anticipated that the findings and information in this report will assist in addressing various challenges faced by the fish farming community.

I eagerly welcome constructive feedback and valuable suggestions from relevant institutions and individuals to help us improve the quality of our work. This annual report will be very useful to policy makers, extension officers, farmers and persons who directly and indirectly involved in agriculture. I extend my gratitude to the Executive Director and Directors of Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) and continuous support to all staff members of NFRC, Godawari, Lalitpur who directly or indirectly contributed to the research and preparation of this annual report. On behalf of the National Fishery Research Centre, I also thank the farmers, associated institutions, and stakeholders for their support, provision of experimental sites, and the necessary information required for our studies.

Umita Sah
A. Chief
National Fisheries Research Centre
Godawari, Lalitpur
December 2024