During the monthly meeting of the Innovative Fish Farmers Association (IFFA) at the College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, farmers were educated on the management of fish ponds, with special emphasis on environmental fluctuations during the monsoons.
The monsoon season management practices, including freeboard to accommodate rainwater, a maximum level sieved outlet to prevent stock escape/loss due to overflow, liming for pH control, dyke height to prevent flood water, along with unwanted polluting materials, from entering the catchment area, dyke strength to prevent dyke breach and stock loss, and entry of predatory/weed fish in the pond with canal water, were discussed by Vaneet Inder Kaur.
Abhishek Srivastava educated farmers about the significance of maintaining water quality to ensure the well-being and growth of fish. Meanwhile, Amit Mandal informed farmers about diverse approaches to sustainably develop aquaculture ponds and maintain an ideal population of natural food to boost productivity. Furthermore, they offered practical solutions and strategies to tackle snail infestations in fish ponds during the monsoon season in response to farmers’ inquiries.
Meera D Ansal, the College of Fisheries dean, highlighted that the monthly gatherings of IFFA serve as a means for farmers to stay engaged with the university, ensuring they receive regular technical updates and prompt solutions to their issues and inquiries. Furthermore, she emphasized that the valuable feedback provided by farmers aids in the development of targeted, regionally relevant problem-solving research.
Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, mentioned that the forthcoming IFFA meeting will coincide with the upcoming Pashu Palan Mela at the university from September 14-15. During this event, the association will establish an exhibition booth to engage with fish farmers and other stakeholders involved in the fisheries supply chain. This interaction will benefit those looking to venture into fish farming as a primary enterprise or as an integrated subsidiary activity to enhance their income.