Stakeholder Meeting Organised to Promote Ornamental Aquaculture in Sindhudurg

18 June 2025, Goa

A stakeholder meeting aimed at promoting ornamental aquaculture in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, was held today at the ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa. The meeting brought together members of the Pratibha Fisheries Development Co-operative Society and ICAR-CCARI scientists to discuss the formulation of a dedicated District Ornamental Fish Culture Policy.

Key discussions highlighted the Government of Maharashtra’s financial support for the sector, including funding provisions through District Cooperative Banks. The Sindhudurg District Bank expressed readiness to implement interest subvention schemes to support emerging entrepreneurs in ornamental fish farming.

Stakeholders provided valuable insights into the practical challenges facing the sector, such as limited breeding capacity, export pricing issues, inadequate logistics for transporting live fish, and regulatory constraints. Suggestions included revisiting existing subsidy schemes, easing loan conditions, and improving marketing systems.

Participants strongly advocated for the development of essential infrastructure, including hatcheries, feed plants, and live feed production units. The discussions also emphasized positioning Sindhudurg as a model hub for ornamental aquaculture through strategic interventions such as:

•    Skill development and capacity building
•    Establishment of a dedicated R&D centre
•    Use of digital platforms for outreach and trade
•    Promotion of eco-tourism through fish parks and community aquariums
•    Development of cluster-based production zones

A comprehensive export strategy was recommended, focusing on branding, sustainability, and fostering international collaborations`
The meeting concluded with a guided visit to ICAR-CCARI’s advanced aquaculture facilities, reinforcing the region’s potential to emerge as a national leader in ornamental aquaculture through integrated efforts across science, policy, infrastructure, and market development.

(Source: ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)