Director’s Message
ICAR–CICFR, Bhimtal
World AMR Awareness Week (18–24 November 2025)
Theme: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”
On the occasion of World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week 2025, I extend my warm greetings to our farmers, researchers, extension workers, students, and all stakeholders associated with coldwater fisheries and aquaculture. This global campaign reminds us that antimicrobial resistance is not a distant threat—it is a pressing challenge that requires immediate and coordinated action.
The theme for this year, “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” resonates deeply with the work we undertake in the sensitive hill aquaculture systems of the Himalayan region. Coldwater ecosystems are ecologically delicate, and irresponsible antimicrobial use can have long-term impacts on aquatic biodiversity, water quality, and fish health. Protecting these resources today is essential for ensuring food security, livelihood resilience, and environmental sustainability in the years to come.
At ICAR–CICFR, Bhimtal, we remain strongly committed to promoting prudent and judicious use of antimicrobialsin hill aquaculture practices. Our institute continues to lead efforts in generating scientific knowledge and practical solutions through:
- routine disease surveillance and monitoring of AMR trends,
- development and dissemination of rapid fish disease diagnostics,
- strengthening farm-level biosecurity and good aquaculture practices (GAP),
- introducing non-antibiotic disease management strategies such as vaccines, probiotics, herbal immunostimulants, and environment-friendly therapeutics,
- capacity-building programmes for farmers and field officers across the hills.
As we observe this important week, I urge all farmers and stakeholders to join this mission by:
- avoiding indiscriminate or prophylactic use of antibiotics,
- consulting experts before administering any treatments,
- maintaining clean, biosecure culture systems,
- keeping proper treatment records and adhering to withdrawal periods,
- spreading awareness within their communities.
By acting now thoughtfully, responsibly, and collectively we can protect our aquaculture sector today and secure a safer, healthier future for generations to come.
Amit Pande
(Director)
ICAR–CICFR, Bhimtal