The Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Mr. Abhilaksh Likhi, visited Getalsud Dam in Ranchi, Jharkhand, to review the growing field of cage fish farming. This place is a hub for cage culture for Pangasius and Tilapia fish species.
The initiative was undertaken in collaboration with the Jharkhand Department of Fisheries. The fish farmers practising cage culture from 16 surrounding villages are members of fisheries cooperative societies. The farmers use galvanized iron (GI) pipes or modular cages. The average production per cage is 3-4 tons and overall profit is more than Rs.4 lakhs per annum with reservoir cage culture.
The fishermen sell the fish at an average price of Rs. 120.00/kg, contributing to the economic well-being of the region.
Mr. Abhilaksh Likhi, during his visit, interacted with cage fish farmers to understand their issues and challenges. He highlighted the immense potential of India’s vast reservoir resources, estimated at 32 lakh hectares that is currently underutilized for fish production.
The cage culture, initiated in 2012-13, has seen significant success with 365 cages installed under the Blue Revolution, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
