The tribal fishers in Manipur’s Mapithel Reservoir demonstrated the effectiveness of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMC) fingerling raising using Pen Culture technology. The initiative, undertaken by the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), aimed at enhancing fisheries and promoting sustainable resource management in the region.
Manipur, with 41% of its population belonging to Scheduled Tribes, heavily relies on agriculture, contributing 50-60% to the state’s GDP. Despite the state’s considerable water resources potential, only 32.94% of areas have been developed for fisheries. More than 95% of Manipur’s population consumes fish, leading to significant fish imports from other Indian states.
The Mapithel Dam, the largest reservoir in Manipur, has posed challenges for the tribal population, displacing over 12,000 people. To support the livelihoods of the affected Tangkhul tribe, ICAR-CIFRI provided two Pen HDPE pens, 50,000 fish seeds, and 2 tons of pelleted feed, along with a motorized FRP boat. The objective was to enhance fish stocks in the reservoir and improve the income of displaced tribal fishers.
ICAR-CIFRI conducted training for 14 selected tribal fishers on “Reservoir Fisheries Management for Production Enhancement” before initiating the pen culture activity. Two HDPE pens, each covering 100 m2, were installed in the reservoir, equipped with features to adapt to monsoon conditions and prevent fish escapement due to flooding.
The pen culture involved stocking Indian Major Carp species, including Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal, with a survival rate ranging from 80 to 88%. The five-month culture period, from September 2022 to January 2023, resulted in impressive average weights for the fish species. The specific growth rate (SGR) and net fish production per pen were also recorded, showcasing the success of the initiative.
The harvested fish, totalling about 8.1 tonnes from two pens, were released back into the reservoir, contributing to reservoir fish production and providing livelihood support to the displaced tribal fishers. The technology demonstration proved to be an eye-opener for the cooperative society, motivating them to implement similar strategies for reservoir productivity enhancement in the future. The success of ICAR-CIFRI’s innovative approach promises increased fishery productivity, additional income for fishers, and a sustainable model for the region.
