Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 30: In a significant step toward strengthening the livelihoods of fish farmers in the region, Mr. Manojit Halder, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Harinagar, held an important meeting on 30th April, with Mrs. Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, Secretary (Fisheries, Agriculture & Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services), to discuss pressing challenges in the aquaculture sector and explore solutions for reviving high-yield fish farming. A key issue raised during the discussion was the urgent need to procure freshwater fish seeds from the mainland. Mr. Halder highlighted that nearly a decade ago, the Fisheries Department supplied farmers with mainland-sourced seeds of species such as Golda (Prawn), Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal fish. These varieties were known for their remarkable growth performance, often reaching 4 to 5 kilograms within a year, greatly benefiting cultivators.
However, in recent years, the shift toward locally produced seeds has led to a substantial decline in productivity. According to the Pradhan, these local varieties typically grow only 0.5 to 1 kilogram annually, resulting in reduced yields and lower earnings for farmers dependent on aquaculture for their livelihoods. Mr. Manojit Halder informed the Secretary that Gram Panchayat Harinagar currently has around 300 to 350 active cultivation ponds, making fisheries a major source of income for numerous families. He stressed that the reintroduction of high-growth mainland seeds could transform the sector, enhance production, improve profitability, and contribute significantly to the local economy and food security.
Mrs. Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, gave a patient hearing to the concerns raised and assured the Pradhan that the department would examine the feasibility of procuring mainland fish seeds to address the issue effectively. Apart from fisheries, Mr. Manojit Halder also discussed several other developmental matters pertaining to Agriculture and Veterinary department concerning Harinagar Gram Panchayat.
The meeting concluded on a constructive and optimistic note, with the Pradhan expressing confidence that timely intervention by the department would bring lasting benefits to hundreds of farming families across the region.
