Lucknow recently hosted a two-day workshop on ornamental fish rearing, organized by the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) and KVK Katia, Sitapur. The workshop aimed to empower women self-help group (SHG) members and farmers through training on ornamental fish rearing. This initiative was part of the ‘Mission Navshakti’ Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) Project, with an initial target of 50 SHG women. However, the programme attracted 66 participants, showcasing the interest and enthusiasm of the community.
The training provided participants with a startup kit that included essential equipment such as a 50-litre icebox, a solar light with a USB charger, and a weighing machine. These tools were aimed at improving hygiene, marketing, and operational efficiency in fish rearing. Participants were taught how to assemble aquariums, understand filtration systems, and set up their own setups. They also received equipment like filters, air pumps, lights, and fish nets to kickstart their ornamental fish rearing ventures.
Once the aquariums are ready, participants will be provided with ornamental fish to populate their setups. To facilitate communication and updates, a WhatsApp group will be created to connect all participants and experts involved in the programme. This will ensure ongoing support and guidance for the SHG members and farmers as they embark on their ornamental fish rearing journey.
The workshop was led by Dr U K Sarkar and coordinated by Poonam Jayant Singh and Daya Shankar Srivastava, with support from Indramani Raja and other experts in the field. Their expertise and guidance were instrumental in providing valuable insights and practical knowledge to the participants, empowering them to start their own ornamental fish rearing businesses.
In addition to the workshop, recent articles published by the Times of India highlighted the importance of monitoring fish catches and resource management in the fishing industry. Experts emphasized the need for sustainable practices to maximize and sustain bumper fish catches, such as the recent phenomenon along the Caranzalem-Miramar stretch. These articles underscore the significance of responsible fishing practices and the importance of conservation efforts in preserving marine resources for future generations.
Overall, the workshop in Lucknow and the related articles shed light on the potential for empowering women SHG members and farmers through ornamental fish rearing. By providing training, support, and resources, initiatives like these can create opportunities for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities. It is through such collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing that we can work towards a more inclusive and environmentally conscious future for all.
