In the wake of Telangana’s recent spell of heavy rains, nature has unveiled an unexpected boon for farmers and fishermen alike. Lakes, ponds, and farmlands are now teeming with fish, a delightful consequence of abundant rains providing breeding opportunities for aquatic life. However, this phenomenon is not merely a stroke of luck but a testament to Telangana’s visionary efforts to boost fish production and support the sustainable livelihoods of fishermen. In this article, we explore Telangana’s “Blue Revolution” – a transformative initiative that has elevated the state’s status in freshwater fish production, benefiting both the environment and its people.
In Vemulawada town and nearby areas, the recent heavy rains have led to rivers, streams, and rivulets overflowing. This has resulted in a unique opportunity for local fishermen as large fish have become trapped in their nets. On July 28th, a significant gathering of fishermen and residents took place around Vemulawada temple Cheruvu, also known as Gudi Cheruvu and Moolavagu, to engage in fishing. Surprisingly, they managed to catch fishes weighing over 15 kilograms in the pond.
Karimnagar’s fishermen have also capitalized on the overflowing water bodies. They took the unconventional approach of laying down nets on main roads where water was overflowing, and this tactic proved highly successful. The video of their unconventional fishing method went viral on social media platforms recently.
The Genesis of Telangana’s Blue Revolution:
Telangana’s journey towards becoming a hub for freshwater fish production was carefully orchestrated. In 2017, the Telangana Government initiated the distribution of free fish seedlings in approximately 11,067 water bodies, setting in motion a chain of remarkable events. This endeavor involved stocking around 51.08 crore fish seedlings at a cost of Rs 44.6 crore, with a promising outcome of 2.62 lakh tonnes of fish production within 8-10 months. Since then, the state has witnessed a substantial increase in the release of fishlings and shrimp into its water bodies, including reservoirs and tanks.
Telangana’s Abundant Water Resources:
Telangana proudly boasts of being home to the country’s third-largest inland water spread, encompassing an expansive 5.73 lakh square km. This extensive network of water bodies, including reservoirs, forms the canvas upon which the “Blue Revolution” is painted. In 2023, the state initiated the release of fish seedlings as early as February, harnessing its water resources to the fullest. The government’s steadfast commitment to this initiative is evident in the substantial investment of Rs 415 crore allocated thus far.
The Phenomenal Growth in Fish Production:
The results of Telangana’s “Blue Revolution” are staggering. In 2022-23, the state ascended to the fifth position in India in terms of freshwater fish production, contributing to an estimated value of Rs 6,100 crore. This remarkable achievement signifies a three-fold growth compared to the fish production worth Rs 1,993 crore recorded in 2017-18. Over the past seven years, Telangana has witnessed a remarkable 195 percent increase in fish production.
Economic Upliftment through Aquaculture:
The Fisheries Department of Telangana has not only contributed to environmental sustainability but also catalyzed economic prosperity. In 2016-17, the department reported a revenue of a modest Rs 2,252 crore, which has surged to an impressive Rs 6,656 crore by 2022-23. Such remarkable growth in revenue is a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering sustainable aquaculture practices
Prawn Production:
Prawn production in Telangana has also experienced substantial growth, mirroring the broader success of the “Blue Revolution.” From a modest 7.78 tonnes valued at Rs 171.23 crore in 2017-18, prawn production has soared to a staggering 11,734 tonnes, worth approximately Rs 425 crore in 2022-23. This remarkable growth illustrates the diversified and inclusive approach of Telangana’s aquaculture initiatives.
Empowering Fishermen and Cooperative Societies:
Beyond statistics, the impact of Telangana’s aquaculture efforts is profoundly felt by the fishing community. Various intervention programs implemented by the State Government have significantly elevated both the average income levels of the Fishermen Cooperative Societies (FCS) and their members. The number of FCSs has surged by 15 percent from 4,002 in 2016-17 to 4,604 in 2020-21. Moreover, membership in these cooperatives has increased by eight percent during the same period, from 2.85 lakh in 2016-17 to 3.09 lakh in 2020-21. This surge in cooperative participation underscores the socio-economic impact of Telangana’s aquaculture initiatives, bringing economic empowerment to the grassroots level.
In totality, Telangana’s “Blue Revolution” is a remarkable testament to what strategic planning, environmental stewardship, and government commitment can achieve. It has transformed the state into a freshwater fish production powerhouse, benefiting farmers, fishermen, and the environment alike. As Telangana continues its journey towards sustainable aquaculture, it sets a precedent for other regions to emulate, demonstrating that harmonizing economic growth with environmental sustainability is not only possible but also imperative for the future. The “Blue Revolution” not only enriches the waters of Telangana but also the lives and aspirations of its people.
