The Authority started its functions with 14 Aquaculturists and 11 Regional Aquaculture Extension Officers, who were newly recruited for the former Aquaculture Development Division of Ministry of Fisheries, under the guidance of a few experienced officers at senior positions. Over the years these newly recruited officers were trained locally and abroad, besides on-the-job experience they received during the last four years. In addition, the Authority filled newly approved positions of Aquaculture Economist, Aquaculture Engineer and Legal Officer / Board Secretary. The present cadre of the authority is given in the table.