Recognising his contribution to fisheries, aquatic sciences and public health microbiology, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has conferred on Dr. I. Karunasagar, Director of Research, Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Science University (KVAFSU), the highly prestigious Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Award. This Award is given once in two years to a scientist who has made outstanding research contributions. The Award given to Karunasagar consisted of a Gold medal, Citation and cash prize of Rs. 3.0 lakh. This Award was handed over to him by the Union Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Sharad Pawar on July 16 at a glittering function held at National Agricultural Science Complex, New Delhi. According to the citation, the award has been given to Dr. I. Karunasagar in recognition of his research that has contributed to improvement in fish and shrimp health management and in the assessment of food safety. Dr. Karunasagar’s research has led to the development of technology for rapid detection of shrimp viruses and public health related pathogens like Salmonella,Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus. Technology developed for the rapid detection of toxic algae responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning has potential application in monitoring shellfish like clams, mussels, oysters and in ensuring their safety for human consumption.