ICAR–MGIFRI, Motihari Promotes Fish-Based Integrated Farming for Climate-Resilient Agriculture under Khet Bachao Abhiyan–Rabi 2026

28 October 2026, Motihari, Bihar

The ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute, Motihari, Bihar, organised a farmer exposure visit and awareness programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan (KBA)–Rabi 2026 to promote fish-based Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) for sustainable livelihoods and agricultural self-reliance in waterlogged and low-lying areas. A group of 27 farmers from Siwan district visited the Institute to learn about integrated farming models, resource recycling and diversified agricultural practices suited to flood-prone ecosystems.

Under the guidance of Dr Raghavendra Singh, Director, ICAR–MGIFRI, the programme emphasised the development of location-specific and climate-resilient farming systems for small and marginal farmers. He highlighted the potential of fish-based integrated farming to convert seasonally waterlogged and underutilised agricultural lands into productive resources through scientific land and water management. He encouraged farmers to integrate fisheries with crops, horticulture and livestock to diversify farm income, strengthen nutritional security and improve livelihoods.

The technical sessions covered fish species selection, pond preparation, stocking density, feed management, water quality monitoring and fish health management. Scientists also explained practices such as raised-bed cultivation, farming on pond embankments, nutrient recycling and the use of pond water and nutrient-rich sediments to improve crop productivity and reduce external input costs.

During the exposure visit, farmers learned about suitable farming models for waterlogged areas, including fish cultivation in water-retaining fields and the integration of compatible horticultural and livestock enterprises. Discussions also highlighted soil health management, efficient water utilisation and environmentally sustainable farming practices.

An interactive farmer–scientist session addressed challenges related to prolonged waterlogging, limited crop diversification, fish production costs and the management of low-lying agricultural fields. Scientists provided practical guidance on selecting suitable farming components according to local agroecological conditions, available resources and farmers' needs.

The programme highlighted fish-based integrated farming as a promising approach to improving resource utilisation, diversifying agricultural production and strengthening climate resilience in the waterlogged ecosystems of eastern India. It also reinforced ICAR–MGIFRI's efforts to promote sustainable and diversified farming systems under Khet Bachao Abhiyan–Rabi 2026.

(Source: ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute, Motihari, Bihar)