A Study on Community Based Aquaculture Promoted by KVK-Khordha, Odisha, India

Since 1960s Community aquaculture gained its importance in India through the attempts of Research and Development agencies. Demonstration of fish culture practices in community ponds are challenged by its nature as water bodies are common property resources which requires substantial support from communities, local bodies and other agencies. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Khordha, the Farm Science Centre under Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) works on Front Line Demonstration of community aquaculture in Khordha district. Promotion of community aquaculture by KVK is through the identified ponds and also requests from interested communities. Technical inputs and one time provision of fingerlings of Indian Major Carps viz., Catla, Rohu and Mrigal are supplied for the farmers to adopt the practice. A participatory approach is envisaged for mobilizing communities, stocking ponds and adopting all Scientific Management Practices. During 2011-13, KVK demonstrated fish culture in five community ponds covering an area of 6 ha. An average production was 22.41 q /ha realized against the farmers practice of 15.46 q/ha. High production costs, risks of poaching and other constraints were also elicited by members who adopted the practice. This paper presents the works done by KVK in promoting community aquaculture and its impact in fish production.