KhetBachaoAbhiyan: ICAR-CIFRI Trains Bihar Farmers on Sustainable Fisheries and Vermicomposting to Combat Soil Degradation

June 2026 : In a major push towards sustainable agriculture and climate-resilient farming, ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Barrackpore, organized a Capacity Enhancement Programme on Inland Fisheries Management for 29 progressive farmers and rural youth from Patna district, Bihar, This programme held on 2^nd  June, 2026 under the national KhetBachaoAbhiyan. Aligned with the campaign’s core themes of Soil Health Management, Natural Farming, Integrated Farming Systems, and Balanced Fertilizer Use, the programme equipped participants with scientific knowledge and hands-on skills in eco-friendly aquaculture, sustainable nutrient management, and vermicomposting-based farming solutions.

Dr.Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, highlighted the adverse impacts of indiscriminate fertiliser use on soil and aquatic ecosystems. He noted that excessive chemical application accelerates soil degradation and nutrient runoff, threatening fish health, biodiversity, and water quality. Advocating a science-based approach, he emphasized soil test–based fertiliser use, integrated nutrient management, biofertilisers, and organic inputs for sustainable agriculture and aquaculture. “Nature-based solutions, including scientific vermicomposting and regulated inland fisheries management, are key to reducing costs, conserving resources, and advancing Viksit Bharat 2047,” he stated.

Scientists from ICAR-CIFRI conducted a series of technical sessions focusing on soil health conservation, balanced fertilizer application, pond-bottom soil assessment, and sustainable nutrient management in fisheries. The sessions emphasized practical approaches to improving fish production while maintaining ecological balance. Participants also engaged in interactive discussions with scientists .

A key highlight of the programme was the demonstration of vermicompost and vermiwash applications in aquaculture. These organic inputs, enriched with beneficial microorganisms and essential micronutrients, help enhance water quality, maintain pond ecosystem stability, and promote sustainable fish production.

Participants were introduced to ICAR-CIFRI’s innovative “waste-to-wealth” vermicomposting model, which converts biodegradable waste into nutrient-rich organic manure. The institute also showcased a cost-effective vermicompost-based culture medium for freshwater microalgae production in fish hatcheries, presenting a scalable and affordable technology for aquaculture development.

The programme concluded with hands-on demonstrations of vermicompost production techniques and reinforced the significant role of inland fisheries in ensuring nutritional security, generating rural livelihoods, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting climate-resilient agriculture.