West Bengal has achieved self-reliance in Rohu-Katla farming, reducing its dependency on imports from states like Andhra Pradesh. Termed the ‘Moyna Model,’ this initiative has revolutionized the fisheries sector in the state, resulting in a surge in domestic production and meeting the local market demands.
According to data from the Fisheries Department, the import of big Rohu and Katla fishes from Andhra Pradesh has plummeted from 80 thousand metric tons to just 40 thousand metric tons in recent years. This dramatic reduction underscores the success of the ‘Moyna Model’ in promoting indigenous fish farming.
More than 1 lakh farmers have embraced the ‘Moyna Model,’ utilizing fallow lands to cultivate Rui, Katla, Mrigel, and other large fishes. Dr. Amal Dhar, a prominent fishery scientist, highlights the model’s effectiveness in utilizing unsuitable lands for cultivation while meeting the growing demand for protein-rich fishes, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the Moyna block, the epicentre of this transformative initiative, farmers cultivate approximately 6 tons of fish per hectare annually. These fishes are not only supplied to various parts of the state but also exported to states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Each bheri, covering an area of 200 to 450 acres, is meticulously managed, with farmers constructing small embankments to prevent floodwater intrusion and ensure uninterrupted fish production.
The success of the ‘Moyna Model’ has translated into tangible benefits for the people of West Bengal, who now enjoy fresh and locally sourced fish, eliminating the need for imported ‘chalani maachh’ that often takes weeks to reach the market. Moreover, the prices of locally cultivated fishes are relatively lower, alleviating the financial burden on consumers exacerbated by escalating transportation costs.
Statistics from the Fisheries Department underscore the remarkable growth of the fisheries sector, with fish production surging from 17.82 lakh metric tons in 2019-20 to 18.43 lakh metric tons in 2021-22. This exponential growth reflects the transformative impact of the ‘Moyna Model’ in bolstering the state’s self-sufficiency in fish production and ensuring food security for its residents.