Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, undertook a visit to shrimp farms in Lahli village, Rohtak, and the Regional Centre of ICAR-CIFE, Rohtak, Haryana. Engaging directly with shrimp farmers, Dr. Likhi delved into the grassroots challenges faced by those involved in saline water shrimp farming.
As part of the National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP) scheme, the Secretary distributed pedigreed common carp seed to selected farmers—an initiative pioneered by ICAR-CIFE. The move is set to bolster the aquaculture sector and enhance the quality of produce.
During discussions, Dr. Likhi underscored the imperative of converting barren land into lucrative aquafarming ventures. Scientists at ICAR-CIFE, during the visit, highlighted the extensive impact of groundwater salinization in inland states, affecting millions of hectares primarily in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Proposing aquaculture as a sustainable solution, Dr. Likhi emphasized its economic viability, foreseeing it as a key player in generating income through fish, prawn, and shrimp crops.
Presently, the four north Indian states mentioned produce 8554.15 metric tons annually from 2167 hectares of saline water aquaculture. However, the untapped potential spans 58,000 hectares in these states. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Department of Fisheries has approved a substantial project for the Genetic Improvement of Common Carp in Inland Saline Aquaculture, with an investment of Rs. 9.29 Crore.
Commending ICAR-CIFE for its commendable genetic improvement program, Dr. Likhi reviewed various activities undertaken by the institution. The Centre’s breakthrough technology, fortifying deficient ions in inland saline water, has been extended to thousands of acres across Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, contributing to a significant increase in production areas.
Expressing congratulations for this technological breakthrough, Dr. Likhi urged for greater awareness and widespread adoption of the technology in the four states boasting suitable acreage for saline water aquaculture. This strategic initiative aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to harnessing the full potential of 58,000 hectares, with the ultimate goal of doubling the income of fish farmers. The plan aims to revolutionize aquaculture practices, breathing new life into saline areas, turning them into thriving hubs of sustainable fish and shrimp farming.
