Meet Sultan Singh: A Trailblazing Fish Farmer From Haryana

Farmer Sultan Singh is a pioneering figure in the fish production sector hailing from Butana village in Karnal district, Haryana. With a rich legacy spanning 40 years in fish farming, Sultan Singh has not only earned accolades including the Padmashree award in 2019 but has also become a guiding light for aspiring farmers across several states.

In 1982, Sultan Singh embarked on his journey into fish farming, utilising 30 acres of land for his innovative fish farm in Butana. He established the first fish hatchery in North India, specialising in breeding 14 different species of fish.

Sultan Fish Seed Farm

His main focus revolves around the rearing of IMC, EMC, and catfish varieties. Operating under the brand name 'Sultan Fish Seed Farm,' he not only breeds freshwater fish but also deals in frozen fish.

The path to success wasn't without its challenges, especially in a state like Haryana where vegetarianism prevails. In the early days, Sultan faced resistance due to lower consumption of meat and fish. Undeterred, he persevered, expanding his business and eventually reaping substantial profits.

Sultan Singh's commitment to sharing knowledge has made him a mentor for many aspiring fish farmers. His influence extends to states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra, and, of course, Haryana. By imparting his expertise, Sultan has enabled numerous individuals to establish successful fish farming ventures.

Profit Worth Lakhs

Sultan's market reach extends to Delhi, where the demand for his fish is substantial. To ensure freshness, he transports live fish in water-filled trucks, offering customers a premium product. His cost-effective approach results in an annual expenditure of Rs 10 lakh per hectare, yielding impressive returns of up to Rs 23 lakh.

Through Krishi Jagran, Sultan encourages fellow farmers to explore fish farming as a lucrative venture. He emphasises that even barren land can be turned into a source of income through this innovative agricultural practice. Sultan Singh's journey is not just a tale of triumph over challenges but a beacon of hope for farmers seeking sustainable and profitable alternatives.