Shillong, Mar 4: The ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam is developing an aqua-village at Mawdwar under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) to promote scientific fish farming and enhance rural livelihoods.
The initiative is being implemented by the Division of Animal and Fisheries Science (DAFS) through a phased training programme. The first phase comprised a five-day training programme focused on alternative livelihood opportunities through value-added fish products such as fish pickle, fish sausages, fish cutlet, and fish samosa.
A three-day training session was conducted from February 27 to March 2 under the second phase, which focused on promoting composite fish culture using high-yielding varieties and feed-based aquaculture practices to improve productivity and sustainability.
A total of 30 fish farmers from the village participated in the programme and gained knowledge on key aspects of scientific aquaculture, including pond preparation and management, identification of suitable fish varieties for culture, quality fish seed selection and stocking techniques, low-cost feed formulation, water quality management, aeration practices, fish health care, and marketing strategies.
The valedictory programme of the second phase was held on March 2 with around 50 participants in attendance, including trainees, members of three Self-Help Groups, and representatives of the local dorbar shnong.
ICAR-NEH Director Dr. S. Ghatak encouraged villagers to adopt the aqua-village model to strengthen fish production in the region.
KHADC Executive Member (Fishery) Isynei Hinge emphasised the importance of scientific interventions to enhance fish production and move towards self-sufficiency.
Under the TSP, essential inputs were supplied free of cost to the trainees following the second phase of training. These included 3,000 fish fingerlings, 600 kg of floating feed, 60 Khaki Campbell ducks, and two 5 HP water pumps. The custody of the water pumps was entrusted to the dorbar shnong to ensure their proper utilisation in aquaculture operations and other aqua-allied activities.
The programme concluded with the release of fish fingerlings and stocking of ducks in village ponds in the presence of officials and community members.
