Demonstrations of “Integrated Aqua-Agri-Poultry- Goat Farming System” for livelihood and nutritional security of Tribal Communities in Gujarat

The Navsari Gujarat Research Centre of ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture demonstrated an “Integrated Aqua-Agri-Poultry and Goat-rearing Model Farm” for the livelihood and nutritional security of the tribal communities in Singod Village, Navsari District, Gujarat during April to October, 2021. The NGRC-ICAR-CIBA’s scientific team mobilized the Model Farm being run by a 40 Member Tribal Self-Help Group - Singod Halpati Samaj Yuva Matsya Udhyog Juth. It consists of 25 low volume cages (4 x 4 x 2 m) to grow fishes like Pangasius, Tilapia, Pearlspot and Rohu. The dykes of the pond were used for growing seasonal vegetables like Brinjal, Chilly, Cauliflower, Tomatoes, Fenugreek, etc., and fruit bearing trees like Mango, Coconut and Dragon Fruit, etc.

To create additional income for the members, a Poultry Unit (2,000 Birds) and a Goat Rearing (12 Goats) Shed were also erected on the other side dykes of the pond. The cage-based fish farming was planned as a multiple stocking and multiple harvesting mode wherein the harvest is staggered periodically to ensure the continuous flow of cash and income to the tribal beneficiaries.

The ICAR-CIBA provided livelihood development support through the Scheduled Tribes Component (STC) Plan like supply of cage nets, frames, Brackishwater and freshwater finfish seed & feed, poultry chicks (meat variety) and goats, etc. The beneficiaries were trained on management of cage nets, feeding, handling of fishes and aquatic animal health management.

The Institute also organized a Harvest Mela-cum-Interaction Meet on “Aquaculture and Allied Technologies for Livelihood Development of Tribal Communities” on 24th October, 2021at the farm site. During the occasion 800 kg of live Pangasius fish (size 1 to 1.5 kg) were partially harvested and sold to the local fish dealer.

Subsequently, around 500 to 600 Kgs live Pangasius and Tilpia Fishes will be supplied to local dealers on a daily basis.

During the programme, a sum of Rs. 1.85 Lakhs was distributed to the group against the sale of fish, poultry birds and vegetables. It is estimated that the farming system may generate a total income of Rs. 14 to 15 Lakhs for the tribal communities of Singod, Navsari, Gujarat.

(Source: ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai)