NABARD, after coordinating with the College of Fisheries (CoF) is set to initiate an effort of exploiting Biofloc Fish Farming (BFF) in Nagaon district to uplift the unemployed youth and fish farmers. With the ambition of strengthening skills and increasing income, two BFF Units, one at CoF, Raha, and the other at Gramsri Krishak Sangha (GKS), Garajan, Rupahihat, have been established. These units are running now and they use to cultivate various fish species like Singhi, Magur, Koi, Amur Carp. They also showcase ideal locations for training and exposure activities. Classes given by NABARD and CoF to the local youths and farmers and enlightened them on fish species selection, disease management, BFF economics, and enterprise setup.
Bifloc, an organic matter from proteins, serves as a microbial protein for fish, thereby improving their growth. BFF technology employs microbial processes inside the tank/pond that serve as a food source for cultured plants and animals. These circular BFF tanks made of tarpaulin plastic sheets can hold up to 10000 liters of water. The NABARD officials witnessed during a recent tour the utility and replicability of the BFF units. Assistant Professor Kaustubh Bhagawati emphasized that CoF has graduated around 165 fish farmers and had around 145 students on study visits. These units have become profitable businesses, pushing the youths to deviate into less costly fish farming.
Through the CoF’s BFF Unit under the revenue-generating model of AAU, the BFF systems will be disseminated to more marginalized fish farmers, and substantial revenue will be generated for its sustainability. This coordinated effort represents a crucial stage towards sustainable aquaculture and community upliftment in Nagaon district.
