ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), Kolkata Centre, successfully conducted a 3-day skill development training programme on ‘Modern Methods of Freshwater Aquaculture’ for 20 fish farmers from Dibrugarh, Assam, from 27th – 29th November 2024. The programme was held at the Department of Fisheries, Dibrugarh.
The event was graced by Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, Director & Vice-Chancellor, ICAR-CIFE Mumbai, who emphasized the importance of modern scientific approaches in aquaculture for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of freshwater fish farming.
During the technical sessions, the farmers were introduced to a variety of key aquaculture practices, including:
- Composite fish culture
- Feeding strategies
- Water and soil quality management
- Fish disease control
- Integrated fish farming
- Nursery management
These sessions were designed to help farmers boost their profits through scientifically managed fish farming.
In addition to the theoretical knowledge, practical demonstrations were provided on:
- Water quality testing (pH, DO) using ICAR-CIFE kits
- Farm-made feed preparation
A field visit was also organized to showcase hatchery operations, live food culture, low-cost feed production, and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This hands-on experience helped the farmers gain valuable insights into enhancing their farming practices and improving their livelihoods.
In the valedictory programme, the District Fisheries Officer (DFO), Department of Fisheries, Dibrugarh addressed the participants and encouraged them to apply the scientific methods they learned in their own aquaculture practices. He emphasized the significance of adopting these new techniques to improve nutritional, economic, and social security for their families.
This training is part of ICAR-CIFE’s ongoing efforts to support and empower fish farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the evolving aquaculture industry.