approach would indeed be unwise and ultimately unsustainable, involving risks that

could impose human costs and constraints on economic growth and development.
Hence, realizing the full potential of the oceans and waterways will demand
responsible and sustainable approaches to its economic development. A greener
and more effective seafood chain can contribute to sustainable growth and food
security, and pave the way for less pressure to be placed on marine and land
resources.
This is why FAO has launched the FAO Initiative on Blue Growth in
Support of Food Security, Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Management of
Aquatic Resources. This initiative encompasses the contribution of aquatic
renewable resources from Oceans and freshwater to the Blue Economy.
With the Blue Growth Initiative, we aim to enable the catalysis of policies,
investment and innovation which would underpin sustained growth and give rise to
new economic opportunities such as ecosystem services. It would integrate key
aspects of food security, economic performance, such as poverty reduction, job
creation and social inclusion, with those of environmental performance, such as
mitigation of climate change, eco-systems and biodiversity loss. It would mobilize
technical support and build local capacity for the design and implementation of
Blue Growth Strategies and create action-oriented policy options and institutions
tailored to the respective economic circumstances and constraints of Member
Countries.
The initiative would aim to intensify partnerships among industry,
governments at all levels, civil society organizations and communities. The
recognition of the fundamental role the private sector, CSOs and public-private
partnerships will play in changing current behaviors, practices and technologies,
and accepting that short- term economic impact will be superseded by long-term
economic gain, is essential.
I look forward to discussing with you the possibilities for collaboration on
this FAO Initiative and the FAO work in support of the Blue Economy in its
Member Countries.
Thank you for your attention.
Dr. Lahsen Ababouch
Director, Fisheries Policy and Economics Division, FAO, Rome.

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 These statistics indicate clearly why the oceans, seas, lakes and rivers are at
the centre of an important economic activity to feed and provide livelihoods to a
global population set to rise by 2 billion over the next 40 years. But is the current
trend sustainable? Unfortunately not.
The aquatic environment is already under stress from over-exploitation,
pollution, declining biodiversity, climate change, increase in hypoxic areas,
expansion of invasive species and ocean acidification. This is because economic
growth in Fisheries and Aquaculture in recent decades has been accomplished in
several parts of the world through unsustainable exploitation of many aquatic
resources. In the case of Fisheries, such growth has commonly not allowed fish
stocks or habitats to regenerate, resulting in overfishing, ecosystem degradation and
habitat and biodiversity loss. Consequently, the share of marine fish stocks that are
over-exploited has increased during the last decades from 10% in 1970 to nearly
one third in 2009. A further 52% of the fish stocks are fully exploited. Illegal,
Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing is estimated at 15 to 20 million tonnes
a year. Fishing continues to be one, if not the most hazardous occupation in the
world, resulting in over 24,000 deaths annually, mainly on board small fishing
vessels. Disease outbreaks have cost the global aquaculture industry tens of billions
of dollars over the last 20 years. The tsunami of December 2004 in the Indian Ocean
caused massive loss of life (over 230,000 deaths), severe damage to the physical
infrastructure of many Asian countries estimated at over US $ 10 billion and
another 11 billion for its reconstruction and left over 1.7 million people homeless.
More recently, Typhoon Haiyan has had similar devastating effects in South East
Asia, particularly in the Philippines affecting 16 million People, causing the death
of 6,300, displacing 4.1 million, and destroying some 1.1 million homes and
causing the loss of income for 5.9 million workers
The good news is that in some regions, the introduction of proper fisheries
management schemes has restored fish stocks’ vitality. In fact, FAO and the World
Bank estimate that the potential economic gain from restoring fish stocks and
reducing fishing capacity to an optimal level is on the order of USD 50 billion per
year.
FAO is of the opinion that Fisheries and Aquaculture can be vital in the
transition towards a Blue Growth due to their interconnectivity with, and reliance
on aquatic ecosystems and the potential for people employed in it to act not only as
resource users but also as resource stewards. To continue a “business as usual”
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Aquaculture has made and continue to make to global food security, poverty
alleviation and sustainable management of natural resources.
Indeed, Fisheries and Aquaculture supply around 19.4 kg/capita per year
and 17% of global animal proteins in addition to essential micronutrients such as
vitamins A, B and D, or minerals such as zinc, iodine, selenium, calcium or iron.
These micronutrients are vital for the eradication of nutritional deficiencies that still
affect millions of people, especially children, in the developing world. Populations
in Low Income Food Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), in Africa or Asia rely even more
on fish for their intake of animal proteins, at respectively 25% and 18%.
In fact, per capita fish consumption has more than doubled since 1973. This
was possible despite the stagnation of capture fisheries during the last
20 years because of the important increase in aquaculture production, estimated at
an average 8.3% yearly growth during the period 1970 – 2010, making it the fastest
growing food production system. As a result, the average annual contribution of
fish from aquaculture for human consumption has increased seven fold, from 7%
in 1970 to 48% in 2012. This trend is projected to continue, with the contribution
of aquaculture to fish food supply estimated to reach 53%- 65% by 2020 depending
on how innovations and investment would accrue to aquaculture to enable it to meet
the demand for fish.
But the Fisheries and Aquaculture sector is not only about its contribution
to food security. Its social and economic dimensions are equally important. Around
58 million people are directly employed in Fisheries and Aquaculture and some 200
million direct and indirect employment opportunities occur along the value chain
from harvesting to distribution, making the livelihoods of some 880 million people
(12% of the global population) dependent on the sector. Employment in the
Fisheries and Aquaculture sectors has grown faster than the world’s population and
faster than employment in traditional agriculture.
Finally, fish and seafood are one of the most traded food commodities.
Some 38% of the world production enters international trade in various shapes and
forms, generating a value of US$ 130 billion in 2012, up from a mere
8 billion in 1976. Over 53% of this trade originates in developing countries whose
net trade income (export – import), valued at US$ 36 billion in 2012, and was
greater than the net trade income of the other food commodities combined.

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 OPENING STATEMENT BY
DR. LAHSEN ABABOUCH
DIRECTOR FISHERIES POLICY AND ECONOMICS
DIVISION (FAO)

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I wish to thank the Government of Pakistan, the Department of Fisheries
and the Pakistan Fisheries Society for inviting me to speak at this 5th International
Fisheries Symposium. I wish also to congratulate them for the excellent
organization and for the wonderful hospitality
The 197 Members of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations (FAO) have an ambitious vision and have set ambitious goals for the
Organization. FAO’s vision is “A world free from hunger and malnutrition where
food and agriculture contribute to improving the living standards of all, especially
the poorest, in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner”.
Three Global Goals underpin this vision:
1) eradication of hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition, progressively
ensuring a world in which people at all times have sufficient, safe and
nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an
active and healthy life;
2) elimination of poverty and the driving forward of economic and social
progress for all, with increased food production, enhanced rural
development and sustainable livelihoods; and
3) sustainable management and utilization of natural resources, including
land, water, air, climate and genetic resources for the benefit of present and
future generations.
Fisheries, trade and investment, the theme of this 5th IFS edition, are at the
heart of this ambitious vision and these ambitious goals. Please allow me to share
with you relevant FAO statistics to highlight the key contribution Fisheries and

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draw his kind attention towards the genuine problems being faced by the private
fish farmers. The price escalations of inputs like fish feed, fertilizers and electricity
have put more economical burden on the shoulders of private fish farmers. In this
direction, patronization of the government in the shape of subsidy and tax rebates
will be commendable. Moreover, provision of the soft loans as previously extended
to the farmers may be revived, so that the deserving fish farmers could be
benefitted.
This symposium will be a way forward providing ample opportunities for
fisheries scientists/ technologists to share their knowledge and ideas for uplifting
of fisheries sector and suggest measures for increase in fish production per unit
area.
In fact, the Department of Fisheries Punjab is paying attention with heart
and soul to promote fisheries in the province. It is mentioned with pride and
pleasure that Department has launched seven (7) new development projects during
current financial year (2014-15). It is hoped that after completion of these
development projects not only the departmental personnel and private farmers will
be benefited with rich knowledge and hands on trainings but also fish production
per unit area will be increased. I am fully confident that this gathering of intellectual
will put in full blooded efforts to accept the challenges of 21st century focusing on
enhanced protein production. The assertive approach to accomplish the job of
addressing protein deficiency will be highly appreciable.
I am highly thankful to worthy Chief Minister and other eminent scholars
who have spared their valuable time for this noble cause of nation building.

THANKS

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 SPEECH BY
MR. MALIK MUHAMMAD ASIF BHA AWAN
MINISTER FOR FOREST, WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES
GOVT. OF THE PUNJAB

Worthy Chief Minister Punjab, Guest of Honour, Honorable Guests,

Fisheries Scientists and Participants
“Assalam-o-Alaikum’’
I feel immense pleasure to welcome all of you here on the eve of this
memorable 5th International Fisheries Symposium 2015. As for history of fisheries
is concerned, it is very old and dates back to 500BC. The fish is considered to be
best source of animal protein. Its flesh is blessed with essential minerals which play
vital role to maintain the human health. It is worth mentioning here that due to ever
increasing population, the requirement of quality protein has gained momentum.
Traditional sources of animal protein are under constant pressure. To augment
animal protein aquaculture is the best answer.
The natural waters are under continuous stress of over exploitation and ever
increasing pollution. Moreover, drought also adversely affected the water
resources. Under these circumstances it has become responsibility for fisheries
scientists to join hands and put in efforts to develop “Aquaculture Industry” on
modern lines.
No doubt, we are not pacing along with the advancements made by the other
nations in the field of science and technology but I am of the firm belief that our
scientists can abridge this gap by hard work, devotion and dedication.
Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal has said.

Presently, more than 8000 fish farms have been established on 60,000 acres
in Punjab, which are running successfully and this number is also increasing day
by day. Taking the opportunity of presence of Honorable Chief Guest I want to

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 MESSAGE FROM
MR. MIAN MUHAMMAD SHAHBAZ SHARIF
CHIEF MINISTER PUNJAB

Department of Fisheries has taken a laudable step by convening an

International Symposium on “Fisheries, Trade and Investment Opportunities”. This
symposium will provide an opportunity to the prominent researchers, scientists and
experts from both national and international communities, fish farmers and
business community to gather at one platform and share their views and discuss the
major issues and problems being encountered by this sector in the country and come
up with concrete proposals/ suggestions for its further development on modern
scientific lines. The Symposium will also create opportunities for the investors from
private sector to invest in field of fisheries and aquaculture to bring this sector at
par with the other developing nations of the continent. It is encouraging to note that
the declining fish production from the natural resources is being more than
compensated by the production from the private sector fish farms which are
operating under the technical guidance of the Department of Fisheries Punjab. The
fisheries sector has been given due importance in the manifesto of the PML (N). In
line with that the present government has increased development portfolio of the
fisheries department manifold.
It is the fundamental policy of this government to promote Public –Private
partnership as well as private sector investment in the sector and it is a matter of
satisfaction that department has launched a first ever PPP project “Feasibility
Studies for Establishment of Aquaculture Processing Zone under PPP Mode“.
I assure the participants of the symposium and especially the foreign
delegates that present government will facilitate the private investors in setting up
modern aquaculture Technology Park and fish export processing zone to initiate
fisheries export from Punjab province.
I take this opportunity to welcome all the delegates and wish them pleasant
and fruitful stay in Lahore. I hope that they will take some time out of their busy
schedule to visit the historical attractions in Lahore and enjoy the beautiful spring
weather. I also congratulate the organizers for making this useful symposium
possible.

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ideas shared during this Symposium will bear fruit in future planning to address
various issues. In the end, I again extend my gratitude to the Chief Minister
Punjab and Minister FW&F Department, Dr. Lahsen Ababouch, dignitaries,
National and International eminent scientists, researchers, academia,
Professionals, Students, fish traders and processors, investors and fish farmers
who spared time to participate in this Symposium and made it a huge success. I
would also like to acknowledge and thank the partners for this event especially
the UNIDO/EU, FAO and FDB.

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and SPS). The export of fish products requires certified test results from
recognized institutions i.e. accredited laboratories, especially regarding
parameters of food safety including microorganisms and chemical contaminants.
In Pakistan there is a federal legislation for “Inspection & Quality Control Act,
1997. Similarly Province of Punjab has Fish Quality assurance Act of 2007.
Likewise there are two well-equipped and certified Laboratories in Karachi and
other in Lahore. These are well equipped both for microbiological/chemical
testing with regard to personnel and facilities, analyzing and certifying fish and
fishery products meeting national and international quality standards and have
the facilities to conduct all the tests legally required by the fish exporters for
exports to EU.
Trade. The Department is making efforts for establishing Export
Processing Zone in the Southern Punjab, through a development project that will
be operating though Public Private Partnership (PPP) that will help export
quality fish and generate foreign exchange.
Aquaculture has been the main drive in National Food Security and foreign
fishery trade. As regards global Fisheries imports, Europe is the largest market,
followed by Asia and North America. In 2012, import growth slowed down in
the developed countries but remained stable in the developing regions. However,
a review of exports reveals that with increased value addition, Asian producers
have dominated in supplies of food fish in International trade (about 41% share).
FAO has reported that during 2012, the net export revenues earned by
developing countries from their fish and fishery products is higher than the entire
sum of all other food commodities combined.
Statistical Data reveals that that individual export value of Tilapia and
Pangasius catfish crossed US$ 1 billion supported by increasing consumer
demand in large, medium and small markets worldwide.
In this Symposium around 100 abstracts have been received from
Universities all over Pakistan including University of the Punjab, Lahore
College for Women University, UVAS, GCU, Faisalabad, GC Women
University, Faisalabad, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, BZU, Multan,
Karachi University, University of Jamshoro, Hyderabad, University of
Peshawar, Mardan University, KPK, AJK University and many others, besides
contributions from China, Morocco, Thailand and Rome. It is hoped that the

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lying vacant for about a decade may be filled in. Some previous in this regard
have already submitted their proposals to IPCC.
The endeavors of the Department of Fisheries have helped in the
dissemination of artificial fish breeding technology to the private sector and
presently a number of hatcheries exist in private sector that are catering to the
needs of the private sector for fish seed and also employment generation.
One of the salient achievements of the Department is the successful artificial
breeding of the endangered species mahseer Tor macrolepis during 2004.
Department is making all out efforts for adopting all conservational measure to
preserve the biological heritage.
The Department has established a Biodiversity Hatchery at Chashma
Barrage, District Mianwali, which offers a huge water potential covering around
358 km2 lake for study on endemic fauna of fish and other aquatic animals in the
lake covering all aspects particularly pertaining to the breeding behavior of
different species, so that these may also be included in our fish culture system.
The Department also plans to introduce the Intensive Culture System which
has already been adopted worldwide, for obtaining higher fish production from
minimum amount of water thereby addressing the issue of reduced availability
of freshwater in nature, resulted due to anthropogenic activities.
Fish has high nutritional quality, is relatively low in saturated fats and
cholesterol, High in polyunsaturated fatty acids, High in protein and minerals
(calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium and magnesium). Raw fish-highly
perishable commodity, its flavor and texture changes rapidly after death
Spoilage due to enzymatic/chemical and bacterial factors.
The WTO regime and implementation of Agreement on Sanitary and Phyto-
Sanitary (SPS) measures was done in 1st January, 1995. Fish export from
Pakistan is banned by the EU in 2005 on the grounds of poor quality fish/non
assurance of quality fish. The International markets for fish export require both
legislation and infrastructure to be of the same standards as those applicable in
their countries (EU Market). The International markets for fish export require
both legislation and infrastructure to be of the same standards as those applicable
in their countries (EU market). Measures are required to be adopted to overcome
risk of rejection of products in export markets due to lack of conformity (TBT

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 Presently fish farms established in Pakistan cover an area of around 70,500
hectares. That is facilitated by about 60 hatcheries in public and 130 in private
sector. About 110 million fish seed is stocked in public sector and
90 million is stocked in rivers, canals, lakes as a stock replenishment endeavor
for sustainable development.
The Government’s priority regarding this sector has been increasing over
past decades as is evident from the productions projected in the 10th 5 year plan
(2010-15) as against production bench mark of 170 million tons during
2004-05, 246 million tons has been produced in 2009-10 indicating 8.8% annual
rise from inland resources and against the production bench mark of 404 million
tons in 2004-05, 457 million tons have been produced in 2009-10 indicating
2.9% annual change.
However, the fisheries production targets of 10th 5 year plan 2010-15 have
been fixed for 313 million tons during 2014-15 against the bench mark of 246
million tons during 2009-10. Likewise, the production targets for marine
fisheries have been fixed for 582 million tons for 2014-15 against the bench
mark of 457 million tons during 2009-10.
The sector development is being undertaken by the respective provincial
Annual Development Program. The allocations during last 5 years for fisheries
sector in Punjab remained as Rs.235, 370, 250, 158 and 580 million during 2010-
11, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15 respectively, which shows that the
Punjab Government has recently enhanced the development allocation.
There is a need for a coherent and concerted effort to develop and promote
this sector to realize its full potential. The draft National Fisheries Policy
developed several years ago could not be approved. Similarly it is essential that
after devolution of this subject as a result of 18th Amendment, that each province
develop its own provincial policy in line with the National Fisheries Policy. At
present there are two federal agencies working for promotion and regulation of
fisheries sector at federal level. First is the all important office of Fisheries
Development Commissioner, attached with the Ministry of Ports & Shipping and
the second is FDB, which is attached with the Ministry of Food Security. It is
essential to devise a mechanism for integration and coordination of both these
organizations under one ministry. Moreover, the office of the FDC, which is

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 The Department of Fisheries, Government of the Punjab, has been
established for more than 100 years, with a vision to conserve, manage and
develop aquatic resources in the province to meet quality protein requirement of
the masses/ public. In the Punjab i.e., the land of five rivers, the natural water
resources cover a total area of about 3.00 million hectare.
Fish and fish products are a major source of human food, employment and
foreign exchange. Globally 54.8 million people are engaged in the fisheries and
aquaculture sector. It is an important part of diet of about 4.3 billion people and
constitutes about 15% of animal protein intake. The fish consumption in Pakistan
is only 1.8 kg/ capita/ year against the average world availability of 19.9 kg/
capita/ year. The World fish food supply having an annual growth of 2.1% from
2005-10 has outpaced the world human population growth of 1.2% per year
which indicates a promising future for fisheries business.
The statistics indicate that worldwide 156.2 million tons of fish are
produced out of which the share of aquaculture is around 41%, as 62.7 million
tones is produced in this way.
The global fisheries trends indicate that the contribution of aquaculture is
consistently increasing from 2000-2010 from 40 million tones to around
80 million tones. Asia is the biggest contributor amongst all the continents to
global fisheries supply as it contributes a lion share of 91% to world aquaculture.
In Asia-Pacific countries, Pakistan is the 10th major producer as it contributes
0.140 million tonnes of aquaculture produce annually.
Through the land of Pakistan, flows the mighty river Indus and its tributaries
Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej that finally culminates its journey into the
Arabian Sea in the South. Pakistan also enjoys a coastline of 1050 Km with its
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 25,000 km2 and inland water resources of
79,200 km2 comprising rivers, dams reservoirs, lakes, canals, Indus delta, flood
area and farms.
Pakistan produces 952,735 m tons of fish annually out of which the share
of marine fisheries is 667,762 m tons (70%) and that from inland resources is
284,793 m tones i.e. 30%. The share of aquaculture in inland production is
around 50%. At present it exports are around 124000 million tons of fish & its
earnings are around $US 315 million.

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 OVERVIEW OF FISHERIES SECTOR
BY
DR. MOHAMMAD AYUB
PRESIDENT PAKISTAN FISHERIES SOCIETY
DIRECTOR GENERAL FISHERIES, PUNJAB

I am feeling immense pleasure over the organization of the

th
5 International Fisheries Symposium and highly grateful to the worthy Chief
Minister, Punjab and Malik Muhammad Asif Bhaa Awan, Minister for Forestry,
Wildlife & Fisheries for sparing his precious time and gracing this event. His
presence also reflects his interest and concern of Government of Punjab, over
the issue of food security and poverty alleviation. I am also indebted to Dr.
Lahsen Ababouch, Chief of the Fisheries Industry Division at FAO Rome, who
has honored the Fisheries Department by accepting the invitation and chairing
the Symposium, being organized by the Department of Fisheries, Government
of the Punjab in collaboration with Pakistan Fisheries Society, FAO, EU,
UNIDO, WWF and others, with the main objective to create awareness, probe
and promote trade and investment opportunities in and around Pakistan
benefitting the public through employment and revenue generation thereby
alleviating poverty and providing food security.
Pakistan Fisheries Society was founded in 1990 as an interdisciplinary
scientific society that draws members from diverse biological backgrounds
under the unified discipline of Aquaculture and Fisheries with the main
objectives of Promotion of scientific research, publication and application of
knowledge of aquatic animals; Planning and implementing projects for the
advancement of scientific knowledge in Aquaculture and Fisheries;
Improvement of education and of professional qualifications in Fisheries
Science and Promotion of international cooperation in achieving the above
objectives. The Society has successfully organized 4 National and International
Symposia earlier during 1999, 2001, 2005 and 2009 which helped in
development of linkages between the scientific community and other
stakeholders associated with the fisheries business. Likewise, the Society is also
publishing scientific journal titled “Pakistan Journal of Fisheries”.

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 Upon recommendations of this committee following posters presentation
were selected were selected for first three positions.
1. Toxic Effect of Besphenol-A on organs of freshwater fish Catla catla by
Ms. Mehwish Faheem, GCU, Lahore (First Prize Rs. 10,000).

2. Fresh Fish Marketing System at Mangla Reservoir, Pakistan by Dr. Zahid

Sharif Mirza, DDF (FQCL) (Second Prize Rs. 7,000).

3.Study of Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Soil Texture

Determination for Establishment of New Fish Ponds in Lahore Division
by Ms. Kashifa Naghma Waheed, Principal Chemist FR&TI.
(Third Prize Rs. 5,000).

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University, Lahore and Dr. Muhammad Naeem Khan, Professor, Department of
Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore were awarded with honorary shields.
For glorious contributions in the field of Fisheries, Professor
Dr. Muhammad Ramzan Mirza was awarded with Dr. Muhammad Yaqoob Javed
Memorial Gold Medal. The following officers of the department were also awarded
with shield for their contributions in successful conduction of the symposium: Mr.
Iftikhar Ahmad Qureshi, Director Fisheries (Ext), Dr. Sikender Hayat, Director
Fisheries (Aqua), Dr. Imtiaz Begum, Director Fisheries (R&T), Mr. Muhammad
Ismail, Director Fisheries (H.M), Dr. Muhammad Zafar Ullah Bhatti, Director
Fisheries (Chashma), Mr. Anser Mahmood Chatta, Deputy Director Fisheries
(P&D), Mr. Amjad Rasheed, Deputy Director Fisheries (ADMIN), Mr. Imtiaz Gul,
Assistant Director Fisheries (Publicity) and Syeda Noreen Gillani, Assistant
Director Fisheries (I&E).
A special feature of this symposium was that for the first time,
Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mahoon Gold Medal, donated by Dr. Arshad Ali,
Professor Emeritus, University of Orlando, Florida was awarded for best oral
presentation for which an evaluation committee comprising the following members
was constituted.
1. Dr. Arshad Ali, Professor Emeritus, University of Orlando, Florida. Convener
2. Mr. Javed Ayub, Project Director, CDP, AJ&K. Member
3. Mr. Iftikhar Ahmed Qureshi, Director Fisheries (Ext.) Punjab. Member
4. Dr. Zafar Ullah Bhatti, Director Fisheries (Chashma) . Member
5. Dr. Atif Yaqub, Assistant Professor, GCU, Lahore . Member
In the light of committees recommendations this gold medal was awarded
to Mr. Haji Muhammad for his presentation on “Skin Disease in Different Fish
Species of Indus River at Taunsa Barrage, District Muzaffargarh”.
Likewise, an evaluation committee comprising the following members was
constituted for awarding cash prize to first three positions of poster presentation.
1. Dr. Quddosi Balqes Kazmi, Professor University of Karachi. Convener
2. Dr. Muhammad Naeem Khan, Professor Punjab University, Lahore. Member
3. Dr. Sikandar Hayat, Director Fisheries (Aqua), Punjab. Member

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¬ Mass awareness and motivation regarding fish production systems,
transportation, storage, fish processing, quality and food safety of fish and fish
products should be initiated. Electronic media now a day has a strong impact
which may be used for promotion of fish culture and stoppage of illegal fishing
practices. Literature for awareness/information may be published in local
languages and distributed among the real stakeholders i.e. fishermen
communities, contractors and law enforcing agencies.
¬ Indiscriminate capture of brood/ parent stocks is also highly destructive in case
of fresh water prawn M. dacqueti and M. malcomsomi. Several thousands of
developing embryos are also destroyed when every single brooder is killed.
This could have been aggravated by upstream migration of juveniles of
freshwater prawns synchronized with the closure of barrages.
¬ Pakistan being a member of FAO should fully participate in the newly launched
programme by FAO “Global Blue Growth Initiative for Food Security and
Poverty Alleviation “ to support fisheries sector.
While summing up all the proceedings, Dr. Muhammad Ayub, Director
General Fisheries Punjab thanked all the participants and expressed hope that
Fisheries & Aquaculture will acquire the status of industry and new openings will
be made available for foreign investment in the sector.
This session was followed by distribution of prizes, shields and gold medals
to the event participants. The chair and co-chair of all the sessions including Mr.
Bruno Valanzulo, Chief Technical Advisor, TRTA-II Programme, Dr. Ali Abbas
Qazilbash, Programme Officer, TRTA-II Programme, Dr. Afzal Kazmi, General
Secretary, Pakistan Fisheries Society, Dr. Muhammad Nazir Bhatti, Ex-Director
General Fisheries Punjab, Dr. Muhammad Shafiq Ahmed, Associate Professor,
Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Dr. Muhammad Sharif
Mughal, Professor, Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture, University of
Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Dr. Ameena Zubairi, Assistant Professor,
Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, Mr. Javaid
Ayub, Project Director, Community Development Project, Azad Jammu &
Kashmir, Dr. Naeem Tariq Narejo, Dean, Research and Graduate Centre,
University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Dean, Faculty of Fisheries
and Wildlife, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Dr. Atif
Yaqoob, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Government College

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 o Research & Development (R&D) institution/University may be developed
according to modern trends of Fisheries to attract international
communities.
o Center of Excellence for Fisheries may be established at all universities
offering courses on fisheries and aquaculture.
o Enhance support to and improve quality and relevance of research and
development applied to fisheries and aquaculture.
o Increase the reliability of fisheries and aquaculture statistical data country-
wide.
¬ Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries should be implemented by all the
concerned agencies in its true letter and spirit, to avoid waste by catch which is
mostly the juveniles . Code of conduct be available to local fishermen in their
own languages.
o Ban on the destructive fishing gears should be implemented in letter &
spirit. Enforcement staff may be appointed to monitor the illegal fishing
during closed season and other voilations. Illegal jetties along the coast and
in the creek areas be regulated
o Strategies and technologies may be developed to minimize Harvest/Post
harvest losses. Fishing gears/nets used may be of only permitted categories
for fishing to avoid small size of fisheries.
¬ Financial institution should place Fisheries sector at priority for financing.
There should be aquaculture financing in the sector for culture, harvesting,
processing and marketing. Government fish financing be aimed at assisting and
facilitating banks to penetrate the aquaculture/fisheries sector by rigorously
financing related activities.
¬ At a time when the conceptual and practical importance of biodiversity is
becoming clear, there is a shortage of trained personnel and lack of necessary
funds. Endangered fish species may be protected and efforts should be made
for their rehabilitation. Establishment of Fish Biodiversity Hatchery at
Chashma by the Department of Fisheries, Punjab is the first step towards
achieving this objective. Such projects may be launched/ supported for
maintenance of Biodiversity in natural aquatic resources.

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¬ and farms, organic waste management, quarantine and fish health, notification
of diseases, quality of feeds.
¬ High values fish species should be brought in culture system which have
acceptance in the world markets. New technologies may be applied to get
maximum yield per unit area.
¬ Value addition of the fisheries products can fetch better price in the market and
fish may become export commodity. Pakistani exporters should opt for value-
added products so that export could rise. For example, shell of shrimp which
are at present utilized in fish meal production can be utilized for production on
other commodities like chitin and chitonosis.
¬ Marine aquaculture in Pakistan is of negligible size and special attention be
focused on this sub sector. Shrimp and fish farming along the coast may be
promoted through provision of land to private sector, establishment of
demonstration farms, making hatcheries operational and development of other
infrastructure for such farming. Feasibility of farming of lucrative shellfish
species as well as finfish species such as cobia may be carried out and private
sector may be facilitated for establishment of such farming. Procedure for
making available land for shrimp and fish farming along the coast may be
simplified. Land Lease Policy of Balochistan already has provisions for
availability of land which may be further be simplified for shrimp and fish
farmers.
¬ Research and Education in Fisheries sector is not field oriented/applied nature.
Therefore dependence on International Fisheries institution for research and
training has become inevitable. It is recommended that:
o The research sections of the Punjab and Sind Fisheries may be
strengthened and research sections may be established in the Fisheries
Department of Balochistan, KPK and AJK to carry out research on
important issues being faced by the fisheries sector their respective
provinces/area.
o A strong link may be developed between academia, Fisheries Departments
and private sector involved in fish culture, processing and marketing. Joint
projects and development activities may be initiated.

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 CONCLUDING SESSION

A healthy discussion followed all these technical session. The proceedings

were finally summed up by the fisheries experts who made following
recommendations:-
¬ Reorganization of the fisheries and ancillary organizations with clear mandate
may be done and overlapping and conflicting functions may be sorted out. An
evaluation of the institutional set up of the fisheries sector may be carried out
and those areas which need further strengthening may be identified and
accordingly readjustment or new recruitments may be made to fill in the gaps.
¬ Fisheries sector may be got declared as an industry so that the schemes
including EOBI, collective bargaining, minimum wages, insurance,
compensation in cases of injury or death is made available for fishermen. Social
Welfare Department may be strengthened in the coastal area to provide special
assistance to the fishermen which are highly prone to natural calamities.
¬ Fisheries sector lacks ownership in the government and social hierarchy and
placed at very low level of the Govt. priorities. The contribution of the sector
need to be acknowledged and proper importance and ownership may be given
to the sector while making plans. Also ensure that social, economic, marketing
and institutional issues are adequately dealt with in relation to fisheries and
aquaculture development.
¬ The post of Fisheries Development Commissioner should be placed under
proper ministry (National Food Security & Research) and be filled through
relative representation from all provinces. Since the Fisheries Development
Commission (FDC) is the only office for international session, it must be
strengthened so that skill development opportunities/training facilities abroad
could be utilized.
¬ Aquaculture is the fastest growing sector contributing food security and
significant earning Aquaculture development may be governed through
legislation. Currently the fisheries laws do not cover aquaculture. Areas that
are not covered include pollution, introduction of new species, use of
antibiotics, pesticides and other drugs in feeds, residue levels in harvested
products, harvesting of wild post larvae or brood stock, registration of farmers

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SESSION 4

Fish Biology, Ecology & Limnology

1. IFS-2015-D-15: Preservation of Salted and Non-Salted Meat of
Cirrhinus mrigala by Sun Drying Process”: Fatima Kafayat.

2. IFS-2015-D-16: Fish Diversity and Socio- Economic Status of

Fishermen Community of District Muzaffarabad Azad Jammu &
Kashmir: Amir Latif Chughtai, Department of Fisheries &
Aquaculture UVAS, Lahore.

3. IFS-2015-D-19: Age and Growth Study of Minor Carp, Cirrhinus

reba (Hamilton) from Manchar Lake, District Jamshoro Sindh
Pakistan: Shaista Jalbani, Department of Freshwater Biology and
Fisheries, University of Sindh, Jamshoro.

4. IFS-2015-D-22: Effects of Hatchery Rearing environment on

Brain Structure and Stress Responses of Mahseer (Tor putitora):
Shahzad Ahmad, Imdad Ullah and *Amina Zuberi, Department of
Animal Science, Fisheries and Aquaculture Lab Quaid-I-Azam
University, Islamabad.

5. IFS-2015-D-17: Comparative Effect of Urea with 30% Crude

Protein Feed on Production of Labeo rohita under Polyculture
Conditions: Mehrunisa Shaukat, Department of Zoology, Wildlife
and Fisheries University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

6. IFS-2015-D-17: Transposons: Mehrunisa Shaukat, M.Phil.

(Zoology), Department of Zoology, Wildlife & Fisheries, University
of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

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 SESSION 2
Fish Health, Pathology & Toxicology

1. IFS-2015-B-20: Skin Diseases In Different Fish Species of Indus

River at Taunsa Barrage, District Muzaffargarh: Haji Muhammad
and Zafar Iqbal, Department of the Zoology, Quaid-e-Azam Campus,
University of the Punjab, Lahore.

2. IFS-2015-B-23: Zebrafish: an Inflammation and Infection Model:

Dr. Zakia Kanwal, Assistant Professor, Lahore College for Women
University, Lahore.

3. IFS-2015-B-25: Effect of Imidacloprid on the Amino Acid Profiles

of Labeo rohita: Shazia Qadir, Ph.D. Scholar Institute of Pure and
Applied Biology Zoology Division Bahauddin Zakariya University
Multan (Pakistan).

4. IFS-2015-B-26: Morphometric Relationships of Oreochromis

aureus in Relation to Body Size and Condition Factor From
Pakistan: Dr. Muhammad Naeem, Abdus Salam, Khalid Pervaiz,
Summera Yasmeen, Syed Ali Ayub Bukhari and Abir Ishtiaq, Institute
of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahaudin Zakariya University, Multan.

SESSION 3
Fish Biology, Ecology & Limnology

1. IFS-2015-D-1: Artificial Fish Migration: Thaworn Jirasoponrak

2. IFS-2015-D-2: Studies on The Fish Biodiversity of River Ravi in

Punjab Pakistan: Manzoor Husain Bhatti, Khalid Pervaiz, Anser
Mahmood Chatta, Sikender Hayat and Imtiaz Khalid Minhas,
Fisheries Research and Training Institute, Department of Fisheries,
Manawan, Lahore-Pakistan.

3. IFS-2015-D-7: an Ichthyofaunistic and Limnological Study of

Barganatu Dam, FR Bannu, Pakistan: Zaigham Hasan &
Jalaludin, Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar.

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7. IFS-2015-B-7: Comparative Study of Genotoxicity, Hematology and
Heavy Metals in Cyprinus carpio & Rita rita Sampled From Selected
Polluted Sites of Trimu Head: Naureen Aziz Qureshi* & Saba Bukhari,
Government College University, Faisalabad,* Government College
Women University Faisalabad.

8. IFS-2015-B-9: Isolation of Bacterial Pathogens from an Imported

Ornamental Fish Shubunkin, Carassius auratus L.: Farah Ansar and
Dr. Zafar Iqbal, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab,
Lahore.

9. IFS-2015-B-10: Fungal Infections in some Economically Important

Fishes of River Ravi in District Kasur, Pakistan: Zafar Iqbal and
Maria Ashraf, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab. Quaid-
e-Azam Campus, Lahore.

10. IFS-2015-B-11: Crustacean Parasites of Commercial Shrimps and

Fishes of Pakistan: Quddusi B. Kazmi, Marine Reference Collection &
Resource Centre, M. Afzal Kazmi, Zoology Department, University of
Karachi, Pakistan.

11. IFS-2015-B-13: Comparative Study on Partial Characterization Of

Kidney Catalase (Cat) Enzyme Purified from Control and Pb+Cd
Metal Mixture Stressed Oreochromis niloticus: Tanveer Ahmed,
University Of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

12. IFS-2015-B-15: Effect of Nickel Toxicity on Growth Parameters and

Hepatic Enzymes in Major Carp: Sobia Akhtar, Lahore College for
Women University, Lahore.

13. IFS-2015-B-16: Effect of Lead Toxicity on Growth Hormone and

Cortisol Levels in Major Carp Species of Fish: Saba Ghaffar.

14. IFS-2015-B-18: Genotoxic Effect of Metals Mixture to Cyprinus

carpio using Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis: Faiza Ambreen and
Muhammad Javed, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries,
University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

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 HALL-B
SESSION 1
Fish Health, Pathology & Toxicology

1. IFS-2015-B-1: A Study of Commonly Occuring Fish Disease of Fish

Farming Sector in Punjab Pakistan: Manzoor Hussain Bhatti, Khalid
Pervaiz and Imtiaz Khalid Minhas, Fisheries Research and Training
Institute, Department of Fisheries, Manawan, Lahore-Pakistan.

2. IFS-2015-B-2: Isolation and Identification of Some Pathogenic

Bacteria From Selected Fish Species of River Ravi: Asif Ali, Tariq
Mehmood, Ehsan Mehmood Bhatti, Sikender Hayat and Imtiaz Khalid
Minhas, Fish Quality Control Laboratories, Department of Fisheries,
Government of Punjab, Pakistan.

3. IFS-2015-B-3: Microbiological Assessment in Fishes of the River

Chenab from Marala To Trimu Headworks: Asif Ali*, Saima Yaqub
Shelly*, Ehsan Mehmood Bhatti*, Sikender Hayat*, Imtiaz Khalid
Minhas and Muhammad Shafiq Ahmed, ** Fish Quality Control
Laboratories, Department of Fisheries, Government of Punjab, Pakistan.

4. IFS-2015-B-4: Determination of Heavy Metals Concentration and

Histamine Levels in Marine Fish Species Collected From Super
Store and Fish Market of Lahore, Pakistan: Nasreen Kosour, Asif Ali,
Kashifa Naghma Waheed, Muhammad Arfan Hadyait, Ehsan Mehmood
Bhatti, Sikender Hayat and Imtiaz Khalid Minhas, Fish Quality Control
Laboratories, Lahore, Pakistan.

5. IFS-2015-B-5: An Evaluation of Chemical Approaches for

Controlling Snails in Aquatic Environment: Kashifa Naghma
Waheed, Zehra Khatoon, Nasir Hussain Naqvi, Sikender Hayat and
Imtiaz Khalid Minhas, Fisheries Research & Training Institute,
Department of Fisheries, Punjab, Lahore.

6. IFS-2015-B-6: Applying Chemical Means to Increase Dissolved

Oxygen Level During Drastic Conditions in Water: Zehra Khatoon,
Kashifa Naghma Waheed, Nasreen Kousar, Nasir Hussain Naqvi,
Imtiaz Khalid Minhas and Sikender Hayat, Fisheries Research &
Training Institute, Department of Fisheries, Punjab, Lahore.

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SESSION 3
Fish Breeding & Genetics

1. IFS-2015-C-1: Genetic Diversity in Different Populations of Mahseer

(Tor putitora) in Pakistan: A Rapid-Based Study: Nuzhat Shafi,
Khurshid Anwar, Fakhar-i-Abbas and Afsar Mian, University of Azad
Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, Bioresource Research
Center, Islamabad.

2. IFS-2015-C-2: Impact of restocking on genetic status of Catla catla in

River Chenab: Irum Shahzadi, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and
Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

3. IFS-2015-C-3: Applications of SSR Markers in Genetic Monitoring of

Fisheries: Nadia Nazish, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries
University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

4. IFS-2015-C-4: Atpase 6/8 Gene Assisted Genetic Variability Studies

among the Population of Labeo rohita: Syed Shafat Hussain,
M. Phil. Fisheries and Aquaculture, University of Veterinary & Animal
Sciences, Lahore.

SESSION 4
Fish Breeding & Genetics

1. IFS-2015-C-9: Multi-locus based genetic variability in hatchery

produced seed of Cirrhinus mrigala: Rabia Iqbal, Aquaculture
Biotechnology Lab, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries,
University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

2. IFS-2015-C-10: Characterization of Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora)

of Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir by microsatellites (SSR)
Loci: Nuzhat Shafi, Javaid Ayub and Tasleem Akhter, University of
Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Fisheries Department, Govt. of
Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan.

3. IFS-2015-C-14: Breeding and Culture of Mono-sex Tilapia in

Pakistan: Professor Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Director, Tawakkal
Tilapia Hatchery, Muzaffargarh, Pakistan.

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6. IFS-2015-A-13 Impact of Azomite Supplemented Diet on the Growth,
Body Composition and Endogenous Enzymes of Gmt Tilapia: Abdur
Rehman Azam, Dr. Noor Khan, Dr. Fayyaz Rasool, Usman Atique,
Matiullah, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries
and Wildlife UVAS, Ravi Campus Pattoki.

7. IFS-2015-A-14 Evaluation of Different Stocking Ratios of Channa

marulius and Oreochromis mossambicus on Growth Performance of C.
marulius in Fertilized Ponds: Iram Qadeer Department of Zoology,
Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

SESSION 2
Fish Culture, Nutrition and Growth

1. IFS-2015-A-16 Efficacy of Phytase Supplementation on Growth

Performance and Nutrient Digestibility of Cirrhinus Mrigala
Fingerlings Fed on Soybean Meal-Based Diet: Muhammad Mudassar
Shahzad, Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries,
GC University, Faisalabad.

2. IFS-2015-A-18 Forage Ratio and Feeding Behavior of Salmostoma

bacaila (Hamilton-Buchanan) Occurring in Stagnant Water of
Jamshoro Thermal Power Plant, Sindh, Pakistan: Dr. Mukhtiar Ahmed
Mahar.

3. IFS-2015-A-19 Growth Performance of Metals Mixture Stressed Fish

in Earthen Pond: Sidra Abbas and Muhammad Javed, Fisheries Research
Farms, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of
Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

4. IFS-2015-A-26 Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan

Nanoparticles and their Effects on Growth , Immunity and Body
Composition of Silver Carp Hypopthalmichthys molitrix: Naima
Younus, Amina Zuberi, Muhammad Akmal, Saba Rauf, Ahmad Shoaib,
Department of Animal Sciences, Fisheries and Aquaculture Lab.,
Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

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 SESSION 2
Fisheries and Aquaculture Development

1. Quality Control Standards & Labels in Fisheries: Professor

Dr. Muhammad Naeem Khan, Department of Zoology, University of the
Punjab, Lahore. President, Pakistan Aquaculture & Fisheries Society
(PAFS).

DAY 2 (25.02.2015)
HALL-A
SESSION 1
Fish Culture, Nutrition and Growth

1. IFS-2015-A-1 Studies on the Growth and Survival Rate of Channa

marulius (Saul) Under Different Feeding Regimes: Ehsan Mahmood
Bhatti, Zahid Iqbal, Abdul Rehman, Abdul Rehman Makki, Sikender Hayat,
Sajid Ali Naqvi.

2. IFS-2015-A-2 Impact of Extruded Feed on the Growth Performance of

Rohu (Labeo rohita) Fingerlings Reared at High Stocking Density
Under Semi Intensive Culture in Nursing Ponds: Muhammad Azeem,
Tariq Rashid*, Sikender Hayat, Imtiaz Khalid Minhas and Sajid Ali Naqvi
Fisheries Research & Training Institute, Lahore.

3. IFS-2015-A-5 Effect of Citric Acid and Phytase on Mineralization of

Whole Body, Bones and Scales in Labeo rohita Juveniles Fed Soybean
Meal Based Diet: Syed Zakir Hussain Shah*, Muhammad Afzal, Mahroze
Fatima, Syed Makhdoom Hussain, Tanveer Ahmad And Naheed Bano.

4. IFS-2015-A-11 Phytase Supplementation Improves Growth

Performance and Crude Protein Digestibility in Labeo rohita
Fingerlings Fed Barley Meal Based Diet: Mahroze Fatima*, Muhammad
Afzal, Syed Zakir Hussain Shah and Naheed Bano Fish Nutrition
Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of
Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan

5. IFS-2015-A-12 Studies on Liver Catalase Enzyme Activity in Catla catla

as Influenced by Season: Hina Amjad, Department of Zoology, Wildlife
and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

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 PLENARY SESSION

1. Fortification of Foods Opportunities in Pakistan: Munawar Hussain,

Program Manager, Food Fortification Global Alliance for Improved
Nutrition (GAIN).

2. Establishment of National Food Safety, Animal and Plant Health

Regulatory Authority: Ministry of National Food Security and
Research, National Animal & Plant Health Inspection Services (NAPHIS),
Government of Pakistan, Islamabad. February, 2015. Presented by: Itrat
Rasool Malhi (NAPHIS).

3. TRTA I & II Programmes & GSP+ Overview: Bruno Valanzuolo Chief

Technical Advisor (TRTA II), UNIDO.

4. The Role of Academia in Food Safety Management: Dr. Muhammad

Nasir, Officer In-charge, Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition,
UVAS-Lahore.

5. Strengthening Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Controls in Pakistan:

EU/TRTA II Programme: Dr. Ali Abbas Qazilbash, Programme Officer,
SPS Compliance & Laboratory Accreditation, EU-TRTA II
Programme.

6. Global Fisheries & Aquaculture: Challenges & Opportunities:

Dr. Lahsen Ababouch, Director, Policy & Economics Divisions Department
of Fisheries and Aquaculture (FAO) Rome, Italy.

7. Role of Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific in Sustainable

Aquaculture Development: Dr. Cherdsak Virapat, Director-General
(NACA).

SESSION 1
Fisheries Trade and Investment Opportunities

1. Role of Fisheries in Pakistan’s Trade: Mrs. Anjum Assad Amin, Director

General, (PITAD), Islamabad.

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Fisheries Society, FAO, EU, UNIDO, WWF and FDB with the theme
“Symposium on Fisheries, Trade and Investment Opportunities” at Pearl
Continental Hotel, Lahore on 24-25 February, 2015 with the objectives to
disseminate knowledge regarding this sector across the country, promote salient
research, trade and investment opportunities and provide food security & revenue
generation options for poverty alleviation. About 300 Fisheries experts,
businessmen, scientists, fish farmers, traders and students from Pakistan and other
countries attended the symposium.
The Minister for Forestry Wildlife & Fisheries Department,
Mr. Malik Muhammad Asif Bha Awan, representing the Chief Minister Punjab also
graced the function as Chief Guest. The Minister addressed the audience and read
the message of Chief Minister, Punjab. The symposium was chaired by Dr. Lahsen
Ababouch, Chief of Fisheries Industry Division, FAO, Rome. In his inaugural
address Dr. Muhammad Ayub, Director General Fisheries, Punjab welcomed and
thanked all the delegates/ participants & presented a worldwide review of fisheries
sector. Dr. Lahsen Ababouch, Chief of Fisheries Industry Division, FAO, Rome,
made his presidential speech. Dr. Chardek Virapat Director General, Network of
Aquaculture Centers in Asia Pacific (NACA), Mr. Thaworn Jiraso Phonark,
Provincial Fisheries Director, Thailand, Mr. Asif Riaz, Fisheries Development
Commissioner, Ministry of Ports and Shipping Islamabad, Mr. Faisal Iftikhar,
Chief Executive Officer, Fisheries Development Board, Islamabad, Ms. Anjum
Asad Amin, Director General, Pakistan Institute of Trade and Development
(PITAD), and Mr. Bruno Valanzulo, Technical Advisor, TRTA Programme II,
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNDIO), also participated
in the seminar.
More than 100 research papers from different universities & institutions of
Pakistan, Morocco, China and other countries were received for this symposium.
On the 1st day the programme comprised inaugural session followed by plenary
session and two technical sessions, while on the 2nd day, four technical sessions
were conducted in two halls in which more than fifty research papers were
presented. Their details are as follows:-

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 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 5TH TWO DAYS
INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES SYMPOSIUM
HELD ON 24-25 FEBRUARY, 2015

Aquaculture practices are rapidly growing among the World’s food

production sectors. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
database, 156 million metric ton fish is being produced annually, out of which, 133
million ton is used as food. Presently, Aquaculture is producing more than 62
million ton fish per annum which indicates that 50 % of world’s edible fish is being
provided through fish farming and aquaculture.
Pakistan is an agricultural country and possesses enormous agricultural
aquatic resources. In our country, 9.53 metric ton fish including 6.67 hundred
thousand ton marine fish and 2.85 hundred thousand ton fresh water fish is
produced annually.
Fisheries sector is advancing swiftly in Punjab. 45,000 metric ton fish is
produced from natural aquatic resources of Punjab and 61,000 acre area is used for
fish farming. In this way, Punjab is producing 94,000 metric ton fish annually.
Department of Fisheries, Punjab is making continuous efforts for the growth of this
fisheries sector. As a realization of the importance of this sector, Government of
the Punjab has considerably enhanced its allocation of funds. As a result of
sufficient funding a number of projects are introduced in the annual development
program of this department. One of these development projects is titled as “Mass
Motivation Campaign for Promotion of Fisheries/ Aquaculture in Punjab”.
Under this project a huge campaign for promotion of fisheries all over the Punjab
has been launched & fish melas have been organized persuading the farmers to opt
this business that will ultimately help to address the protein scarcity issue & provide
healthy food for human consumption.
An International Symposium was also organized under this project as such
occasions provide a platform for sharing expert opinion and latest research on any
issue. The government also realizes the importance and need of investment by the
private sector at national and international level. Therefore, the department
organized a two day International Symposium in collaboration with Pakistan

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