Dima Hasao Fish Farmers Gain Expertise in Sustainable Aquaculture at Diyungbra Training

 

Haflong, May 9: Over 40 fish farmers from across Dima Hasao district sharpened their skills in sustainable fish farming during a two-day training programme on "Sustainable Aquaculture in Hill Ecosystem," held on May 6-7. Funded by ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Kolkata, the event equipped participants with scientific knowledge and hands-on techniques tailored to the hilly terrain, aiming to bridge the district's fish supply-demand gap and boost rural incomes.

Inaugurated by Dr. Ardhendu Chakraborty, Senior Scientist and Head at CIFRI, the programme kicked off with a call to action. "There's enormous potential in Dima Hasao's fisheries—farmers and youth must seize this for livelihoods and nutritional security," Dr. Chakraborty said, stressing scientific pond management, quality seeds, and feeds to ramp up production in hill areas.

Technical sessions delved into essentials. Mr. Baosring Nunisa, Subject Matter Specialist in Soil Science, covered pond soil management, explaining soil pH balance, liming, and preparation for optimal fish growth. Resource person Mr. Kabin Medhi, Fishery Development Officer from Goalpara, led discussions on fish disease control, nursery management, feeding, and water quality—key to cutting losses and maximizing yields.

Hands-on demos brought theory to life, showing lime and disinfectant applications for pond hygiene and disease prevention. Participants also received 1000 kg of fish feed and 6000 advanced fingerlings to kickstart expanded farming.

Local success story Shri Pabitra Nunisa of Nunisa Farm inspired the group, sharing his journey: overcoming challenges with smart practices that turned fish farming profitable. The event wrapped with lively Q&A, where farmers voiced field issues and pledged to adopt the new methods. Farmers hailed the training as a game-changer for Dima Hasao's aquaculture scene, promising higher production and economic gains.