Indian Veterinary Association welcomes Centre’s move for establishment of ICFVR

Ranchi: The Indian Veterinary Association (IVA) has welcomed the move of Government of India for establishing India Council of Fisheries and Veterinary Research (ICFVR) or Bhartiya Fisheries & Livestock Research Council (BFLRC) on the lines of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Gross value added (GVA) of the Livestock Sector and Fisheries Sector is respectively 5.50% and 1.069% to National GVA. This accounts for 30.23% and 6.86% of agricultural GVA by the two sectors respectively. The historic move to establish ICFVR/BFLRC is expected to accelerate growth trajectory of India’s livestock, poultry, and fisheries
sectors—ultimately strengthening the nation’s economy.

IVA national spokesperson Dr Nandani Kumari said that Indian Veterinary Association, an umbrella organisation of over 62 thousand veterinarians of the country, has been requesting for establishment of a separate apex body for Veterinary and Fisheries research for a long time.

Reason behind the demand has been primarily focussed research and development, timely sector specific scientific input and implementation along with greater autonomy. Further, the separate apex body would help universities and research institutions with targeted curriculum and enhanced funding for the two sectors, she added. While ICAR will continue to be the torchbearer in agricultural research, its legacy and benchmarks will guide the newly proposed ICFVR/BFLRC in delivering excellence in veterinary and fisheries research.

On behalf of veterinarians and allied professionals across the country, the IVA has expressed gratitude towards the Central Government for this progressive decision hoping early realization of this institutional framework.