Fisheries — The Strong Foundation of Self-Reliance and Economic Stability

A New Identity of Rural Prosperity: Journey of Progress through Technology and Hard Work

Raipur, Oct 2025 : Chhattisgarh Silver Jubilee Celebration: A Strong Foundation of Livelihood, Self-Reliance, and Economic Stability

The year 2025 marks the Silver Jubilee of the formation of Chhattisgarh, celebrating 25 years of the state’s remarkable journey towards inclusive growth and prosperity. Over these years, all departments have made significant contributions toward public welfare and social upliftment. Among them, the Fisheries Department of Bilaspur district stands out as a shining example — having laid a strong foundation of livelihood, self-reliance, and economic stability across villages through the optimal use of water resources.

4,946 Ponds under Fisheries in Bilaspur District

When Chhattisgarh was formed in 2000, fish farming in Bilaspur was largely traditional and considered a supplementary livelihood. At that time, only 3,333 ponds were leased for fisheries, producing about 21,120 metric tonnes of fish annually.
Through 25 years of planned initiatives and innovations, the district’s Fisheries Department transformed the sector completely. Today, 4,946 ponds are used for fish farming, with the leased water area expanding from 5,679 hectares to 10,960 hectares. The number of rural ponds rose from 227 to 4,884, resulting in a massive jump in fish production — now reaching 48,488 metric tonnes.

Modern Techniques Attracting Farmers and Youth

This progress reflects not just numbers, but the prosperity of thousands of fisher families whose lives have become stable and dignified. The department has introduced scientific and commercial fish farming practices, including Plankton Grower technology (810 units), Shrimp culture (517 units), Cage culture (436 units), Biofloc and Pond Liner systems, which have improved both the quantity and quality of production.
These modern techniques have drawn significant interest from small farmers and rural youth, who now view fish farming as a profitable enterprise.

Insurance and Financial Security for 8,980 Beneficiaries

The Fisheries Department ensured that every beneficiary received the benefits of welfare schemes. Over 8,980 fishers are now covered under insurance and savings-cum-relief schemes, while the Kisan Credit Card Scheme has made access to financial support easier.

Chhattisgarh’s First Hi-Tech Fish Market

In 2016, the state’s first Hi-Tech Fish Market was established in Torwa with the support of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) at a cost of ₹1 crore. The market features 15 wholesale shops, 27 retail shops, an ice plant, and live fish sale facilities.
Beyond being a commercial hub, it has provided fish vendors with a dignified and organized marketplace. Alongside traditional water sources, river-based fish farming has also been promoted. For instance, 300 hectares of water area at the Jondhra barrage on the Shivnath River has been leased to a cooperative society for 10 years, enhancing organized fish production.

Bilaspur – The Leading District in Fisheries Development

A remarkable example of success is Mr. Ignatius Minj from Bhaisajhar village, Kota block, who has demonstrated how the fusion of technology and hard work yields great results. He produces 55 metric tonnes of fish annually through Pangasius fish farming. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, he was also provided a fish transport vehicle, distributed by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao.

Today, Bilaspur district proudly holds the distinction of being Chhattisgarh’s leading district in fisheries, symbolizing not only successful implementation of schemes but also a living example of policies effectively realized on the ground.