On 28 April 2026, the NACA Secretariat was privileged to welcome Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MOFAHD), Government of India. Dr. Likhi, who led a high-level delegation from the Indian Embassy, visited NACA’s Bangkok headquarters to engage in discussions aimed at deepening the collaborative bonds between India and the regional aquaculture community.

The visit underscored India’s pivotal role as a founding member of NACA. For decades, India has remained a cornerstone of the organisation, contributing significantly through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). During the meeting with NACA Director General Dr. Eduardo Leano, the delegation discussed advancing regional aquaculture development with a specific focus on aquatic disease surveillance and transboundary knowledge exchange, sharing insights on how innovation can further modernise the sector.

This visit coincided with Dr. Likhi’s participation in the 5th World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress (5th WSSFC) being held in Hua Hin, Thailand. As the world’s second-largest fish producer, India’s continued partnership is vital for the socio-economic development and food security of the region. NACA is deeply appreciative of this visit and look forward to scaling new heights in aquaculture innovation alongside our Indian partners.