State - 3 weeks ago

ICAR-CIFRI and Visva Bharati Promote Ornamental Fish Culture among Tribal Communities.

0 2 min read

The ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Barrackpore, in collaboration with the A.K. Dasgupta Centre for Planning and Development, Visva-Bharati, Shantiniketan, organised an input distribution and awareness programme under the Schedule Tribe Component (STC) at Shantiniketan on 14th November, 2025.

As a part of the initiative, ornamental fish tanks and culture kits were distributed to 30 tribal fishers of the district, aiming to create sustainable livelihood opportunities through ornamental fish farming. The programme focused on enhancing income generation, entrepreneurship, and skill development among tribal communities.

Experts from ICAR-CIFRI and Visva-Bharati sensitised the beneficiaries on scientific fish culture practices, tank maintenance, and market linkages for ornamental fish trade.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Aparna Roy, Scientist, ICAR-CIFRI, emphasised, “Ornamental fish farming offers an eco-friendly and economically viable livelihood option for small-scale fishers. With proper training and support, tribal communities can transform this activity into a viable source of income”.

Professor Bidhan Chandra Roy, Chair Professor, AKD Centre, delivered an encouraging address, assuring continued support for the initiative. The programme also included hands-on demonstrations by CIFRI experts, equipping participants with practical knowledge of ornamental fish culture.

Led by Dr. B. K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, the event was part of the institute’s commemoration of Tribal Pride Year Fortnight 2025 (Jan Jatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada 2025) under commemoration from 01st November, 2025 to 15th November, 2025, honouring the tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The programme highlighted his legacy and contributions to tribal rights while reinforcing ICAR-CIFRI’s commitment in uplifting the socio-economic status of tribal communities through innovative and sustainable fisheries-based livelihood models.

Team Maverick