ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) commemorated Kisan Saman Diwas, also known as National Farmer’s Day, on December 23, 2024, at Barijanga village in the Balianta block of Khordha district, Odisha. The event, held in honor of the birth anniversary of India’s fifth Prime Minister, Chaudhary Charan Singh, brought together approximately 150 farmers, including 110 women, demonstrating the institute’s commitment to empowering rural communities.
This celebration formed part of ICAR-CIFA’s ongoing Swachhata Pakhwada campaign, observed from December 16 to 31. Organized in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Khordha, the event featured active participation from scientists like Dr. G. S. Saha, Dr. U. L. Mohanty, Mr. S. Singh, and Mrs. H. Banu. The experts addressed challenges in fish farming, advocating organic farming practices across agriculture, horticulture, and aquaculture. Women farmers were especially encouraged to engage in innovative practices such as biofloc-based fish farming.
A key highlight was the felicitation of six progressive farmers for their significant contributions to aquaculture and agriculture. The honored farmers included:
- Mr. Prasanna Kumar Swain from Taraboi
- Mr. Siddharth Kumar Behera and Mr. Khirod Dalei from Barijanga
- Mr. Bikramsen Nayak from Purohitpur
- Mr. Arttatrana Khatoi from Siddhakutila
- Mr. Mohan Kumar Parida from Bramhankhandi
Mr. Bikramsen Nayak, one of the awardees, shared his inspiring journey, motivating fellow farmers to actively adopt sustainable agricultural practices. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Singh, who acknowledged the contributions of all participants.
The program was lauded as a transformative initiative, offering practical insights and sustainable solutions to enhance aquaculture and agriculture practices in the region.
