Kolkata, June 21 -- The state Fisheries Department is set to introduce reservoir ranching in at least half a dozen reservoirs in Purulia to create sustainable year-round employment in fish harvesting, processing and marketing while strengthening fishing cooperatives and local livelihoods.
"Reservoir ranching-the practice of stocking water reservoirs with fish seed and allowing them to grow naturally on wild forage-is highly advantageous for West Bengal. It will boost rural economies and help maintain inland aquatic biodiversity without the need for daily feed," a Fisheries Department official said.
Sources said the managing director of Benfish and senior department officials have already inspected the identified reservoirs for ranching of Rohu, Katla and Mrigel. "Approval for the initiative has already been received and the tender process is being initiated," the official said.
Muruguma Dam, Turga Dam, Upper Dam and other reservoirs in and around the Ayodhya Hills region have been selected for the project.
The Assistant Director of Fisheries (ADF) concerned has been asked to coordinate with self-help groups and Fish Producer Groups for implementation. The state government will provide the entire ranching support. Once the fish attain a weight of 1.5 kg to 2 kg, they can be harvested and sold.
Officials said the technique enables productive use of large open-water systems for aquaculture without requiring dedicated land-based ponds.
The department is also planning similar reservoir ranching projects in Bankura and West Midnapore. The Fisheries Department has additionally identified villages in Purulia, West Midnapore, Kalimpong and North Dinajpur for implementation of the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA), aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable development in tribal regions through pisciculture.
All selected villages have populations of more than 500, with tribals accounting for at least 50 per cent of residents, according to the last Census. The Centre has approved Rs 503 crore for the scheme, under which 3,636 villages across West Bengal have been identified.
According to an official, individuals taking up pisciculture under the programme will receive a 90 per cent central grant, while community-based projects will be eligible for 100 per cent grant assistance.
"The scheme is being implemented to ensure sustainable livelihoods among tribal communities through fish farming," the official said.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.