Despite multiple initiatives launched by the State government to achieve self-sufficiency in fish seed production, aquaculturists are grappling with a significant crisis due to delays in procurement and distribution of fish seeds. Many fish farmers, who have already prepared their ponds, pen units, and enclosures, are awaiting hatchlings, which the Fisheries Department has yet to supply.
Farmers warn that further delays in ranching could result in heavy losses, as rising temperatures will adversely affect the growth of fish. “Many of these projects are at a standstill, severely impacting our livelihood. If the seeds are distributed right before the summer, there won’t be enough water to sustain them. Like agriculture, fish farming follows a strict calendar, and failure to adhere to it will have disastrous consequences,” explained Purushothaman, an award-winning fish farmer from Kannur.
The Crisis Deepens
The State government had introduced the Backyard Fish Seed Production Scheme, which aimed to produce over 600 lakh seeds of pearl spot and murrel, benefiting nearly 620 farmers. The scheme was designed to ensure a steady supply of high-quality seeds to boost aquaculture production. However, aquaculturists like Sivaprasad from Alappuzha, who runs a licensed hatchery producing pearl spot seeds for the Janakeeya Matsya Krishi initiative, have been left in limbo. He said, “June, July, and August are ideal for ranching, but no steps have been taken to procure the seeds this year. We’re stuck with hatchlings, and maintaining them costs over ₹50,000 per month.”
Unable to sell their seeds to the State, farmers are being forced to sell to other states at significantly lower prices. Farmers had even approached authorities with a proposal to provide seeds on credit, but the response has been unsatisfactory.
Department’s Response
Officials have cited a lack of funds as the reason for the delay in implementing the seed production schemes. “We are working on several projects, including brackishwater culture, shrimp farming, and cage culture. We understand the concerns of the farmers, and this issue will be resolved soon,” said a senior Fisheries Department official.
As aquaculturists await action, the crisis has left hundreds of fish farmers and seed producers uncertain about their future.
Source: The Hindu
