The 37th International Scientific Session, organized by the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), commenced ceremoniously today (02) at the NARA headquarters premises.

Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, attended this significant event as the chief guest.

The Session, held under the timely theme “Aquatic Research for Climate Resilience, Food Security, and Blue Growth,” the sessions brought together local and international experts, university representatives, and numerous stakeholders in the field. The event features the presentation of the latest research papers and findings across several key areas, including the fisheries industry, aquaculture, post-harvest technology, aquatic biotechnology, the aquatic environment and climate change, oceanography, and fisheries socio-economics.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Minister of Fisheries, Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, highlighted the pivotal role the fisheries industry plays in ensuring national food security. He affirmed the government’s full commitment to building a robust ‘Blue Economy’ in Sri Lanka while uplifting the fishing community, even amidst global climate challenges. Furthermore, he emphasized that the scientific guidance and data derived from research conducted by NARA are crucial for formulating future national fisheries policies. He also noted that making such scientific research accessible to the fishing community would help ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.

Addressing the conference, Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa emphasized that decision-making in the fisheries sector must be based on scientific evidence derived from continuous and reliable data, rather than merely on tradition. He further highlighted the need to move towards an “Aquatic Bioeconomy”—where aquatic resources are utilized for innovations such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, rather than being limited solely to food—and stressed that research should not remain confined to academic papers but must progress through practical application and commercialization (Research → Prototype → Pilot → Commercialization).

The keynote address at the conference was delivered by Dr. Fujino Tadanori, a fisheries expert from Japan’s Overseas Fishery Cooperation Foundation (OFCF). During the scientific session, awards were presented to recognize outstanding research that has made significant contributions to the field, and prizes were awarded to the winners of the NARA photography competition. In addition, the event was attended by Professor Sanath Hettiarachchi (Chairman, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency – NARA), Mr. Nawras Nazar (Chairman, Ceylon Fisheries Corporation), Mr. Kapila Bamunuarachchi (Chairman, Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation), Mr. Wasantha Mannapperuma (Chairman, Cey-Nor Foundation), and Mr. Samantha Gunasekara (Chairman, Marine Environment Protection Authority). Also present were representatives from the countries and organizations that have facilitated scientific research and training opportunities for NARA, along with numerous officials from the Ministry and researchers from both Sri Lanka and abroad.