IGNOU DAQ Admission: 2026
The Diploma in Aquaculture (DAQ) is a specialized, one-year vocational programme offered by the School of Sciences (SOS) at IGNOU. This diploma is designed to develop interest, provide technical knowledge, and promote green practices in the field of aquaculture, which involves the controlled breeding and rearing of aquatic animals and plants. The sector is critical for providing food security, combating malnutrition, and generating alternative livelihood opportunities, especially for traditional fisher-folk.
Last Updated: January 2026
A key objective of the DAQ programme is to foster entrepreneurship and update the technical knowledge of professionals already engaged in aquaculture activities. Successful candidates gain expertise in both freshwater and coastal aquaculture systems. IGNOU DAQ Admission is offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and is open to candidates who have completed their 10+2 with a science background.
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IGNOU DAQ (Diploma in Aquaculture) Highlights
The DAQ programme is a skill-based, one-year diploma with a provision for extension up to three years. The curriculum is delivered in English medium and includes a mandatory practical/project component. Key details regarding the IGNOU DAQ Admission are listed below.
| Programme Name | Diploma in Aquaculture |
| Programme Code | DAQ |
| School | School of Sciences (SOS) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Total Programme Fee (Approx.) | Rs. 8,000/- for the full programme |
| Total Credits | 28 Credits |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals with a genuine interest in aquatic life and sustainable food production will find this programme highly rewarding. It is particularly suited for residents of coastal or freshwater regions who want to back their practical observations with scientific principles. If you are comfortable working in outdoor environments and have a keen eye for biological details, this curriculum fits your profile.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often select this course because it bridges the gap between traditional fishing practices and modern scientific farm management. The flexibility allows learners to understand seed production and hatchery management without pausing their existing seasonal work. It provides a structured way to learn about disease control and water quality, which are often the biggest challenges in real-world pond culture.
Where Does This Programme Help?
This programme is instrumental when navigating the technicalities of setting up a small-scale fish farm or an ornamental fish unit. It helps students understand the environmental impact of aquaculture, ensuring that their farming practices remain sustainable and compliant with ecological standards. The knowledge gained is also applicable when dealing with cooperative societies or local fisheries departments for technical consultations.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often transition into roles as farm supervisors or technicians in private shrimp and fish hatcheries. Many students use the certification to gain credibility when applying for government schemes and subsidies related to blue revolution initiatives. Others choose to venture into entrepreneurship by establishing their own aquaculture feed businesses or aquarium trade exports.
Programme Coordinator Details
For academic queries or administrative support related to the **IGNOU DAQ Admission** or course content, students can contact the programme coordinator at the School of Sciences.
| Coordinator Name 1 | Prof. BanoSaidullah |
| Contact Email 1 | banosaidullah@ignou.ac.in |
| Contact Email 2 | |
| Contact Number 1 | 011-29572818 |
| Contact Number 2 |
Programme Coordinator details mentioned above are based on information published in the official IGNOU Prospectus and are provided here only for general reference. IGNOUED is an independent educational information platform and does not represent Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer directly to the official IGNOU prospectus or website.
IGNOU DAQ Admission – Important Details
Admission to the DAQ programme is offered in both the January and July cycles. The fees mentioned are for the entire programme, excluding the non-refundable registration and development fees. Since this is a specialized science diploma, candidates are advised to verify the availability of the practical/laboratory component at their chosen Study Centre during the IGNOU DAQ Admission process.
IGNOU DAQ Admission Last Date
The university offers **IGNOU DAQ Admission** twice a year. The deadline for fresh admission is subject to change, but general timelines for the two sessions are as follows:
| Admission Session | Last Date (Expected) |
| January Cycle | January 31, 2026 |
| July Cycle (Next) | July 31, 2026 |
Applicants must check the official IGNOU admission portal for the exact final date and any potential extensions for the current cycle.
IGNOU DAQ Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNOU DAQ Admission, applicants must meet the following mandatory requirement:
- Must have passed 10+2 (Intermediate) or its equivalent qualification from a recognised Board/University, with a Science Stream background.
- There is no specific minimum percentage required or an age limit for admission.
IGNOU DAQ Fees Structure
The total fee for the Diploma in Aquaculture (DAQ) is to be paid upon confirmation of IGNOU DAQ Admission. This structure outlines the main components of the fee:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
| Programme Fee (DAQ) | Rs. 8,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time, non-refundable) | Rs. 300/- |
| Development Fee | Rs. 200/- (As per common prospectus) |
| Total Payable (Approx. at Admission) | Rs. 8,500/- |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU DAQ Admission
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Admission Samarth Portal.
- Click on the NEW REGISTRATION tab to register a new user account with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Log in to the portal and select the Programme Code DAQ (Diploma in Aquaculture).
- Fill in the detailed application form, ensuring all personal and educational details are accurate.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents (10th/12th Science certificates, photograph, signature, etc.).
- Pay the full programme fee, registration fee, and development fee using the online payment gateway (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking).
- Submit the form and download the final application summary for your records.
DIRIL Curriculum and Course Structure
The DAQ curriculum is a mix of theory, practical work, and a project, totaling 28 credits. Students must successfully complete the two compulsory courses (Basics of Aquaculture and Project) and then choose between one of the two streams:
- Stream I: Freshwater Aquaculture
- Stream II: Coastal Aquaculture
The programme aims to provide practical technical know-how in the chosen stream.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| BAQ 1 | Basics of Aquaculture (Compulsory) | 8 |
| BAQP 1 | Project (Compulsory) | 6 |
| BAQ 2 / BAQ 3 | Freshwater Aquaculture / Coastal Aquaculture (Optional Theory) | 8 |
| BAQL 1 / BAQL 2 | Laboratory I: Freshwater Aquaculture / Laboratory II: Coastal Aquaculture (Optional Practical) | 6 |
| Total Credits | 28 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU DAQ Admission
The Diploma in Aquaculture provides the necessary technical foundation for employment in the rapidly growing fisheries and aquaculture sector. Graduates are equipped for various field and supervisory roles, promoting entrepreneurship in aqua farming.
- Aquaculture Technician: Managing daily operations at fish/shrimp farms, focusing on water quality and feed.
- Fishery Officer / Extension Worker: Working with government fisheries departments to implement schemes and provide technical advice.
- Farm Manager: Overseeing large-scale commercial aquaculture units.
- Entrepreneurship: Starting one’s own fish/shrimp farming business or consultancy services.
- Research Assistant: Supporting research activities in academic or private research institutes focused on aquatic life.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the minimum educational requirement for IGNOU DAQ Admission?
The minimum eligibility is a pass in 10+2 (Intermediate) or its equivalent qualification from a recognised Board, specifically with a Science background.
Q2: Is the Diploma in Aquaculture a full-time or distance learning programme?
The Diploma in Aquaculture (DAQ) is offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode by IGNOU, making it flexible for working professionals and learners.
Q3: How many credits must be completed for the IGNOU DAQ Admission?
Students must successfully complete a total of 28 credits, including compulsory courses (Basics of Aquaculture and Project) and courses from either the Freshwater or Coastal Aquaculture streams, to be awarded the Diploma.
Q4: Is the total fee for IGNOU DAQ Admission refundable?
The registration fee (Rs. 300/-) is non-refundable. The programme fee refund policy is subject to university rules and depends on the time elapsed after admission confirmation.
Q5: Does IGNOU DAQ Admission require an entrance test?
No, IGNOU DAQ Admission is generally granted directly based on the fulfillment of the minimum eligibility criteria (10+2 Science pass). No entrance examination is required.