Jashpur: The state Fisheries Department has rolled out an intensive drive to modernise fish farming, aiming to make the activity both more productive and financially rewarding for local cultivators. By blending scientific principles with hands‑on coaching, officials hope to shift conventional methods toward sustainable, high‑return enterprises.
Scientific Fish Farming Takes Center Stage
A three‑day immersion program gathered 300 farmers from every development block of Jashpur. The agenda mixed classroom lectures with field visits, allowing participants to witness cutting‑edge aquaculture setups in operation and learn how to replicate them on their own holdings.
Key modules covered pond‑level management, selection of premium seed, balanced feeding regimes, and disease control. Trainers stressed that systematic oversight at each production phase can dramatically lift yields and farm incomes.
Live Demonstration of Pond‑Liner Systems
One of the highlights was a tour of a local fish‑farm that employs modern pond‑liner technology. Farmers observed the installation steps, learned how liners stabilise water quality, and picked up maintenance tips that promote optimal growth conditions.
Speakers highlighted that robust liners, paired with quality seed and disciplined management, form the backbone of a profitable pond operation.
Cage Culture Insights at Rajpuri Reservoir
The delegation also visited Rajpuri Reservoir in Surguja district to explore cage culture – a technique that suspends fish‑rearing cages within a larger water body. Participants watched live demonstrations, received a concise briefing on the method, and discussed its potential to diversify production and increase earnings.
This exposure was designed to show farmers how cage culture can complement traditional pond farming, opening fresh avenues for income generation.
Full Spectrum Modern Aquaculture Process
Throughout the three days, trainers guided the farmers through every stage of the fish‑farming cycle. Topics included:
- Selecting disease‑free, high‑performance seed and employing contemporary seed‑production techniques.
- Applying scientific pond‑management practices.
- Designing feeding schedules that meet nutritional needs while minimising waste.
- Recognising common fish ailments, preventing outbreaks, and administering effective treatments.
Applying New Skills to Local Ponds
Officials are confident that the practical knowledge gained will translate into tangible improvements on participants’ own farms. By upgrading pond upkeep, using superior seed, balancing feeds, and responding swiftly to disease threats, farmers can boost production levels and enhance the profitability of their existing water resources.
Assistant Director of Fisheries Jitendra Kumar Paikra, who oversaw the programme, affirmed that broader adoption of these modern techniques could raise overall fish output in Jashpur and secure a stronger income stream for the region’s aquaculture community.
