Rise in Local Fish Production Reduces Dependence on Andhra Pradesh in Cuttack District

by Fishery News

The district of Cuttack in Odisha has witnessed a remarkable increase in fish production, leading to a significant reduction in dependence on the Andhra Pradesh market to meet consumer demand. Previously reliant on imported fish from Andhra Pradesh due to local unavailability, Cuttack’s shift towards fish farming has proven both viable and profitable over the past three to four years.

The impact of this transformation is substantial, with local fish production tripling post-COVID-19, attributed in part to migrant workers finding fish farming attractive due to favourable climatic conditions and suitable markets in Cuttack. Currently, the district produces over 26,000 metric tonnes of fish annually, a substantial increase from the pre-2019 annual production of 10,000 metric tonnes.

Various initiatives have contributed to this surge, including Biofloc fish farming and the involvement of around 200 women self-help groups (SHGs) in fish farming within gram panchayat tanks. These efforts, supported by the state government’s self-help group movement, have played a crucial role in boosting fish production.

District Fisheries Officer Itishree Rath highlighted the successful execution of pisciculture in 326 tanks, exceeding the target of 320, with 40-60% input subsidy. Additionally, women SHGs have engaged in fish farming across 135 hectares in Cuttack district, benefiting from a 60% subsidy.

Despite these positive developments, the district still faces a shortfall of 3,000 to 4,000 metric tonnes in meeting the annual fish demand of approximately 32,000 tonnes. This gap is primarily filled by importing fish from Andhra Pradesh or Balugaon. The price range for locally produced fish is Rs 180 to Rs 250 per kg, while fish imported from Andhra Pradesh is priced between Rs 160 to Rs 180 per kg.

Cuttack currently houses about 40 fish godowns, and approximately 20 tonnes of fish are imported daily from Andhra Pradesh to meet the local demand. The increase in local fish production not only boosts self-sufficiency but also supports the livelihoods of fish farmers in the district.

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