The innovative cage culture method of fish farming in Gumla district is yielding positive outcomes for numerous farmers, with an anticipated sale of about two lakh kilograms of fish, valued at Rs two crore, in the markets after the conclusion of the holy month of Shravan. The project, initiated in March last year, involves floating cages across 3,600 square hectares in the Dhansingh reservoir of Basia block for fish culture.
Originally conceived by former Deputy Commissioner Sushant Gaurav as part of special central assistance to generate employment opportunities in left-wing extremism regions, the initiative has been a collaborative effort involving the formation of different cooperative societies comprising 190 farmers, including 103 displaced individuals from Sakiya village. These farmers were allocated cages for fish farming and provided with essential resources such as fish feeds, medicines, paddle boats, and life jackets.
Gumla Fishery Officer Kusum Lata highlighted the success of the project, noting that the fish, now weighing over 700 grams each, are ready for sale. Each farmer is expected to earn around Rs one lakh from the venture, benefiting approximately 350 to 400 people directly and indirectly.
Gumla’s new Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi expressed plans to expand the initiative to other large water bodies in the district, recognizing the significant potential for pisciculture in Gumla. The district administration aims to ensure the sustainability of the project through proper market arrangements and effective management.