Chashma, Mianwali – May 10, 2025 — In a significant development for Pakistan’s aquaculture sector, Prof. Dr. Noor Khan, Project Manager, Malik Muhammad Ramzan, Team Leader successfully led the distribution of Wallago attu (Mali) catfish seed to local fish farmers at the Fish Biodiversity Hatchery, Chashma, Mianwali. This activity was conducted under a research initiative funded by the Punjab Agricultural Research Board (PARB), Project ID 20-157, titled “Prospects of Induced Breeding of Catfish Species (Pangasius hypophthalmus and Wallago attu) for a Sustainable Supply of Seed to the Fish Farming Community of Pakistan.”

The project, executed in collaboration with the Fisheries Department, Government of Punjab, focuses on establishing a sustainable, indigenous seed supply system for two commercially valuable catfish species — Pangasius hypophthalmus (Vietnamese catfish) and Wallago attu (Mali).

Farmers from Mianwali and surrounding districts attended the seed distribution event. They were provided with high-quality, hatchery-bred seed produced using advanced induced breeding protocols developed during the course of the research. In addition to seed distribution, technical sessions were conducted by Prof. Dr. Noor Khan, Dr. Hafiz Abdullah Shakir (Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore), Mr. Muhammad Arshad, and Dr. Saleem (Fish Biodiversity Hatchery, Chashma), covering best practices for seed handling, transportation, rearing, feed and feeding strategies and grow-out management.

“The development of local hatchery-based catfish seed production systems is crucial for reducing dependency on imports and strengthening rural economies,” said Prof. Dr. Noor Khan. “This project not only supports our national goals for food security and aquaculture sustainability but also enhances livelihood opportunities for small-scale farmers.”

The event was warmly received by the local farming community, who praised the efforts of the research team and PARB’s continued commitment to applied research that directly benefits grassroots stakeholders.