Service: Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 1990 batch, Madhya Pradesh cadre
Current Position: Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (since July 2025)
🎓 Educational & Professional Background
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi holds a Ph.D. in Aquatic Sciences, specializing in fishery resource management and marine ecosystem conservation. Prior to joining the IAS, he contributed extensively to academic research and fisheries extension.
🏛️ Administrative Career
A senior IAS officer with over three decades of experience, Dr. Likhi has served in key roles across state and central governments. His previous significant positions include:
- Commissioner of Fisheries in Madhya Pradesh, where he spearheaded sustainable fishery and aquaculture initiatives.
- Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, overseeing agrarian livelihood programs and agricultural extension.
- Advisor to the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog), focusing on rural development and allied sectors, including horticulture and animal husbandry.
đź“Ś Tenure as Secretary (Fisheries)
Dr. Likhi assumed office in July 2025, leading India’s fisheries policy and regulation. His key focus areas include:
- Sustainable Aquaculture: Promoting eco‑friendly, high‑yield aquaculture systems to boost rural incomes and meet nutritional goals.
- Blue Economy: Integrating fisheries into India’s broader Blue Economy policy—strengthening coastal and marine fisheries livelihoods.
- Fisherfolk Welfare: Expanding social security, credit access, mechanization, and infrastructure support for fishing communities.
- Value Chain Development: Enhancing post‑harvest infrastructure, cold‑chain logistics, and value‑added seafood processing.
- Fisheries Diplomacy: Engaging in international forums and agreements to encourage sustainable fisheries, traceability, and market access.
đź“ť Summary
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi is a technically skilled and policy‑oriented leader in the fisheries domain. As Secretary of Fisheries, he brings together scientific insight, academic rigor, and administrative experience to drive sustainable aquaculture, empower fishing communities, and align India’s fisheries sector with global practices and rural development goals.