Training on Entrepreneurship Development in Aquarium Fish Keeping Organised

21 November 2025, Jharkhand

ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Jharkhand, organised a three-day SCSP training programme on ‘Entrepreneurship Development in Aquarium Fish Keeping’ from 19 to 21 November 2025 at its campus. The initiative aimed to empower Scheduled Caste youth through skill development and livelihood diversification in the ornamental fish sector an emerging micro-enterprise with growing demand in urban and peri-urban markets. The programme was organised under the guidance of Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI.

The training was inaugurated on 19 November 2025 by Dr. S. K. Mahanta, Campus In-charge, ICAR-IARI Jharkhand, who highlighted the commercial potential of aquarium keeping and stressed the importance of technical skills, entrepreneurship, and market awareness for rural youth.

The Nodal Officer (SCSP) underscored the need for technology-driven, skill-based interventions to support SC youth, promote inclusive development, and strengthen sustainable micro-enterprises. The inauguration also coincided with the release of the 21st instalment of PM-KISAN, addressed by the Prime Minister, reinforcing the alignment between national income support schemes and grassroots capacity-building initiatives.

The training was led and coordinated by a Scientist (Fish Nutrition), with support from the Co-coordinators and other faculty members. The programme featured a combination of lectures and hands-on sessions covering key aspects of aquarium entrepreneurship. A major highlight was the participation of two successful entrepreneurs who shared their journeys from hobbyists to owners of multimillion-rupee businesses in the ornamental fish sector. Interactive discussions and practical demonstrations throughout the training ensured active engagement and peer learning.

On the final day, 21 November 2025, the programme concluded with a valedictory session and feedback interaction, during which participants expressed strong enthusiasm to initiate their own ventures. To support their entrepreneurial efforts, 30 small aquarium setups complete with accessories and ornamental fish were distributed to them.

A total of 30 participants, attended the programme from Tatijhariya, Ichak, and Padma blocks of Hazaribagh district.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Jharkhand)