ICAR-CIFRI’s Vision for Sundarbans: A Model Village for Sustainable Growth

In a significant stride towards sustainable rural development, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), in collaboration with Kultoli Milan Tirtha Society and State Bank of India, Kolkata Circle, inaugurated a transformative project under CSR initiatives aimed at uplifting 100 families in the Indian Sundarbans through backyard pond culture. The inception workshop for the project was held on April 26, 2025, at Haldar Para, Uttar Mokamberia Gram Panchayat, Basanti Block, South 24 Parganas. The inaugural ceremony took place at Kultoli Milan Tirtha Society, Kultoli, marking the formal launch of the initiative that seeks to develop the village as a ‘Model Village’ – sustaining fish culture, fostering economic growth and food security in the region.

ICAR-CIFRI, a premier research institute established in 1947, has been at the forefront of inland open water fisheries development across India. With a strong focus on research, extension, and training, the institute also actively engages in livelihood enhancement programmes targeting fishers, particularly women-fishers, across the country. The programme included several key activities such as an inauguration ceremony, interaction with beneficiaries, exhibiting the project site, distribution of fish feed, and the release of fish seed into the ponds of selected beneficiaries. As part of the initial distribution, 10 kg of fish seed and 120 kg of feed were handed over to the beneficiaries.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including the Chief Guest Vivekananda Singh, DGM, SBI, South 24 Parganas, Dr. B.K. Das, Director, ICAR-CIFRI and representatives from the partnering organisations. The Deputy General Manager (DGM) of State Bank of India appreciated Dr. B.K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI for his epoch-making initiative, and research efforts in making the Model Village Project a reality. Dr. B.K. Das, while addressing the gathering, emphasised that every family should focus on savings generated from fish farming to ensure their sustainable development. He also mentioned that if this initiative succeeds in creating one Model Village, it would pave the way for supporting many more families towards a sustainable future.

As per information provided by ICAR – CIFRI – fisheries inputs will be provided to the selected beneficiaries once again after six months. Continuous monitoring and need based skill training will be conducted periodically.  After one year progress will be assessed by team CIFRI. This initiative reflects the shared commitment of ICAR-CIFRI and its partners towards inclusive development and environmental sustainability, offering a replicable model for rural transformation in similar ecological and socio-economic settings.

Team Maverick