The meeting focused on sharing experiences in adopting scientific and modern aquaculture practices. Champion Fish Farmers, recognized as Brand Ambassadors of fish farming, have successfully implemented advanced technologies like Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Biofloc, setting scalable and sustainable models for others to follow.
The Government has actively supported the fisheries sector through programs such as the Blue Revolution Scheme, Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Saha Yojana (PMMKSSY). These initiatives provide infrastructure, finance access, technology adoption, and capacity-building opportunities to enhance sectoral growth.
During the session, Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (Inland Fisheries), highlighted the benefits of government schemes, emphasizing the role of Champion Fish Farmers in cluster-based growth, technology validation, and mentoring emerging farmers. Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General, ICAR, underlined the importance of modern technology adoption, disease management, and operational diversification for improving productivity and farmer incomes.
MP Shri B. Masthan Rao contributed insights on strengthening shrimp production and export potential. Padma Shri awardee Shri Sultan Singh and other Champion Fish Farmers raised practical challenges, including seed shortages, high feed costs, and energy expenses. Suggestions included promoting organic feed, integrating fish farming with animal husbandry waste, subsidized electricity, solar energy solutions, and RAS-based seed storage systems for regions with logistical constraints.
Farmers also stressed adopting eco-friendly, precision-based aquaculture, lower stocking densities, and enhanced capacity-building to improve production quality. The session concluded with Dr. Bijay Kumar Behera, CEO of NFDB, requesting Champion Fish Farmers to support upscaling the 34 notified fisheries production and processing clusters, and strengthening skills development within cooperatives to ensure sustainable sector growth.
