New Carp Eco-Hatchery Established in Arunachal Pradesh

An FRP-made carp eco-hatchery has been successfully established in the remote village of Rukmo, Lower Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, by the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Kolkata Center, in collaboration with the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lower Dibang Valley. This is a significant development for aquaculture. This innovative facility boasts a capacity of producing one million fish seeds per cycle and is the first of its kind in this region. 

Over the past three days, a comprehensive hatchery demonstration and hands-on training program were conducted under the NEH Scheme at Rukmo Village. This initiative focused on the induced breeding of Indian Major Carp, particularly Rohu, resulting in the production of approximately 800,000 spawn using the portable hatchery technology. The success of this program is expected to make the Lower Dibang Valley district self-reliant, or “Atmanirbhar,” in carp seed production, effectively addressing the seed demand of about 250 local fish farmers.

The training program saw active participation from 20 local farmers, including four women, who engaged in the practical and theoretical aspects of carp breeding. The hands-on approach provided them with valuable insights and skills in hatchery management and seed production, which are crucial for sustainable aquaculture practices. 

This eco-hatchery not only promises to boost local fish production but also aims to enhance the economic well-being of the community by empowering local farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to engage in aquaculture. The establishment of this hatchery is a vital step towards promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices in the region.

By meeting the local demand for fish seeds, this initiative will significantly reduce dependency on external sources, fostering economic growth within the community. 

The project reflects the commitment of ICAR-CIFE and the Krishi Vigyan Kendra towards sustainable development and self-sufficiency in the fisheries sector of Arunachal Pradesh.