Model Village Initiative Gains Momentum: ICAR-CIFRI Distributes 2nd phase Aquaculture Inputs in Haldarpara, Kultoli, Sundarbans under SBI-CSR

Oct 2025 : In a major step toward rural empowerment and sustainable aquaculture development, the ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Barrackpore, successfully conducted the second phase of input distribution under its Model Village Development initiative at Haldarpara, Kultali, in the Sundarbans region. The initiative, implemented under the SBI-CSR project, is designed to enhance livelihood opportunities and promote environmentally responsible aquaculture practices in vulnerable rural communities.

As part of this mission, ICAR-CIFRI distributed 1200 kilograms of fish seed and 12 Metric Tons of cage grow feed to 100 identified beneficiary farmers. These inputs are expected to significantly boost fish productivity and income generation, especially in rainfed small water bodies that are abundant in the region. The distribution event was preceded by an interactive session where ICAR-CIFRI officials engaged with local fish farmers, emphasising the importance of adopting scientific fish culture techniques to improve yields and ensure long-term sustainability.

To prepare the farmers for effective utilisation of the inputs, ICAR-CIFRI have organised a three days off-campus training programme from October 28th to 30th, 2025, focused on small-scale aquaculture. These sessions aimed to build the technical capacity of fish farmers, equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to manage aquaculture operations efficiently. The training covered topics such as pond preparation, feed management, disease control, and market linkages.

Dr. B.K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, chaired the valedictory session of the training programme and distributed completion certificates to the participants. Addressing the trainees, Dr. Das remarked, “Empowering fish farmers with the right knowledge and resources is key to unlocking the potential of small-scale aquaculture. Our goal is to create sustainable livelihood models that can be replicated across similar rural landscapes. This initiative is not just about distributing inputs—it’s about building a resilient community through science and participation”.

The programme received strong support from local stakeholders. Mr. Lokman Molla, President of Kultali Milan Tirtha Society, expressed heartfelt gratitude to team CIFRI and SBI for their continued efforts in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the region’s fish farming community.

The second phase of input distribution marks another milestone in the collaborative efforts between ICAR-CIFRI and SBI Foundation under the CSR framework. By integrating scientific guidance, community involvement, and capacity building, the Model Village Development initiative continues to pave the way for sustainable fisheries-based livelihoods in the Sundarbans, contributing to food security, economic resilience, and rural development.

Team Maverick.