Srinagar, June 19: In a significant achievement for Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Misba Rehman, a PhD scholar in the Faculty of Fisheries, has secured an international research grant of US$6,500 from the US-based Wild Animal Initiative.

The grant will support the project, “Assessing Behavioural and Physiological Welfare Indicators for the Kashmir Loach (Triplophysa kashmirensis),” led by Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq as Principal Investigator, with Misba Rehman as lead applicant.
The study focuses on generating scientific evidence on the welfare indicators of the critically endangered Kashmir Loach, an endemic fish species of Kashmir, to support science-based conservation and management strategies.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated Misba Rehman and Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq, stating that the achievement reflects the growing global recognition of research at SKUAST-K and strengthens the university’s commitment to impactful research and biodiversity conservation.
Dean, Faculty of Fisheries, Prof. Farooz Ahmad Bhat, described the grant as a major accomplishment, noting that the project addresses an important yet understudied area of fish welfare and conservation.
Head Division of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr Tasaduq Hussain Shah, said that the international funding reflects the scientific merit and growing relevance of the research being undertaken by the Division.
Expressing gratitude, Misba Rehman acknowledged the support of the university and her supervisor, stating that the grant will enable innovative research to better understand the conservation and welfare needs of the Kashmir Loach.
The award further underscores SKUAST-K’s growing international recognition in biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquatic resource research.