Suttur, June 30, 2021: ICAR JSS Krishi Vignan Kendra, in collaboration with the Bhootanala Fisheries Research and Information Centre, Vijayapura, organized a training program on “Fisheries and Sustainable Fish Farming Ecosystem” at their premises. The event saw the participation of esteemed resource persons, including Dr. Vijaykumar S., Dr. Vijaykumar Atnur, and Dr. Rakshit Raj U.M., Assistant Professors from the Fisheries Research and Information Centre, Vijayapura.
During the program, Dr. Rakshit Raj U.M. highlighted the favorable conditions in Mysuru District, where an average annual rainfall of 700-800 mm and ample water resources like the Kaveri and Kabini rivers contribute to a good groundwater level. Farmers equipped with pump sets can take advantage of this situation by creating agriculture ponds in their fields, enabling them to cultivate crops without solely relying on rainfall. Dr. Rakshit Raj U.M. further emphasized the income-boosting potential of undertaking fisheries in these ponds, including the storage of rainwater.
Dr. Vijaykumar, the main resource person, stressed the significance of fisheries and explained its growth trajectory. He shed light on the health benefits associated with fish consumption and urged farmers to consider incorporating fisheries into their agricultural practices. Dr. Vijaykumar provided insights into various fish species suitable for breeding, feeding techniques, and the estimated expenses involved. He pointed out that a single acre of land can accommodate the breeding of 4-5 thousand fish, each weighing approximately 1 kg within a year. With a market price of Rs. 100 per kilogram, farmers can potentially earn an annual income of two to two-and-a-half lakh rupees per acre, after deducting expenses.
Highlighting the demand for fish in the market, Dr. Vijaykumar emphasized that unlike crops that may go to waste during protests, there have been no instances of fish being discarded on the roads due to the consistent demand for this product. He encouraged farmers to identify market demands and prioritize the supply of high-demand products to maximize their income.
In addition, Dr. Vijaykumar Atnur addressed the attendees, discussing the various diseases that can affect fish, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. He also shared preventive measures to safeguard fish health.
The training program, conducted virtually on the Google Meet app, witnessed the participation of more than 25 individuals, including Smt. H.V. Divya, Senior Scientist, Incharge Head JSS KVK, and scientists Sri Shamraj, Smt. Netravathi Yettinamani, Dr. Vinay G.M., Sri Rajanna, Sri Sundarraj, Sri Gangappa Hipparagi, Sri Kumaraswamy, along with several progressive farmers. The session fostered an interactive environment, with attendees exchanging valuable questions and answers.