Ludhiana 15 July 2025- Mr. Aritra Mukherjee, fisheries graduate from College of Fisheries (COF), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, bagged the prestigious Dr. T.J. Varghese Award for securing 4th rank in All India Ranking for Best Fisheries Graduate of India Examination (2024-25). 
It was conducted by the Professional Fisheries Graduate Forum. The award was presented to the top 5 fisheries graduates of India, during the 2nd Indian Fisheries Outlook- 2025 organized at College of Fisheries, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar from 12th to 14th July, 2025.
Dr. Meera D. Ansal, Dean COF applauded the outstanding achievement of Mr. Aritra and informed that this award was conferred at national level through a rigorous evaluation process, involving different phases of examinations and personal interviews. Special classes are arranged for the graduating students of the college for recognition and securing placement in institutes of repute through national level competitive examinations, she added.
Dr. J.P.S. Gill, Vice Chancellor of the university extended warm congratulations to the student for his outstanding achievement and bringing laurels to the alma mater.
With an intense passion for advancing in fisheries education, Mr. Aritra was among the top merit holders (17th position) in All India Entrance Examination for Admission 2024 in postgraduate/doctorate degree in agriculture and allied sciences, informed Dr. Ansal. Presently, he is pursuing his master degree in Fish Processing Technology (M.F.Sc.- FPT) with Junior Research fellowship from Central Institute of Fisheries Education of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Mumbai, a deemed university for fisheries education in India.