The agricultural landscape in Kadapa district of Nation is undergoing a significant transformation, with many farmers increasingly turning their focus towards fish farming. This shift comes on the heels of recent amendments to aquaculture regulations by the state government, aimed at streamlining processes and providing greater assistance to farmers venturing into pisciculture.
Farmers across Porumamilla, Jammalamadugu, and Chapadu mandals are embracing fish farming, with numerous existing ponds in operation and a surge in applications for the construction of new ponds. Notably, agricultural lands are being repurposed for fish ponds, marking a notable departure from traditional farming practices.
Official records indicate the presence of 130 acres of fish ponds in Chapadu mandal, 80 acres in Porumamilla, and 15 acres in Jammalamadugu mandal, with more acreage anticipated to be allocated to this burgeoning industry.
Karnati Narayana Reddy, a farmer hailing from Kuchupapa village of Chapadu mandal, exemplifies this trend by converting 30 acres of land into fish ponds, with plans for additional expansion. Reddy sources fish seedlings from farmers in East Godavari or Nellore districts, each weighing around 8-10 grams. With a rapid growth rate, these seedlings mature within 4-5 months, yielding substantial returns.
Investments in pond excavation and infrastructure, totaling approximately Rs. 1 crore, have already yielded significant profits for Reddy, with fish sales amounting to Rs. 80 lakh and an additional Rs. 50 lakh expected from the next harvest. Favourable proximity to the Kundu River ensures consistent water supply, further bolstering the viability of his venture.
Fisheries farm technician Vasudeva Raju emphasizes the importance of meticulous pond management, emphasizing the significance of water quality, feed selection, and health monitoring for optimal outcomes. Raju asserts that a well-maintained fish farm promises lucrative returns, surpassing those from traditional food grain crops.
Officials from the Fisheries Department corroborate the surge in fish farming, attributing it to improved water availability across the district and government incentives. Anticipating increased demand, new permits for fish farms are set to be issued shortly, with fish hatcheries in Kadapa poised to supply seedlings to interested farmers.
In light of these developments, the Fisheries Department invites aspiring fish farmers to explore opportunities and seek guidance at their offices, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation in aquaculture across Kadapa district.
Source: Deccan Chronicle