Nimbudera, November 2: Integrating fish farming with paddy cultivation, horticulture and livestock production could help farmers diversify agricultural activities, utilise farm resources more efficiently and improve incomes. A three-day training programme organised by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nimbudera, focused on pond-based integrated farming systems, equipping 25 farmers and farmwomen with technical knowledge of aquaculture, crop diversification and livestock integration.
The programme was conducted from October 29 to 31 at Duke Nagar in Swadesh Nagar Gram Panchayat under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan (KBA) – Rabi 2026. It focused on combining different farming enterprises, recycling agricultural waste and improving productivity through the integrated use of available farm resources.
Subam Debroy, Subject Matter Specialist (Fisheries) at ICAR-KVK, Nimbudera, conducted sessions on the scientific planning and management of pond-based farming systems. He covered fish species selection, pond preparation, water quality management, integration of livestock with fish farming and fish health management, including disease prevention.
Rakesh Dawar, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy), explained how farmers could diversify pond-based systems by incorporating paddy cultivation, horticultural crops and spice production. His session examined the integration of multiple agricultural activities to improve resource utilisation, productivity and farm income while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Manoj Kumar, Subject Matter Specialist (Agricultural Engineering), addressed the technical requirements for developing integrated farming infrastructure, including farm layout planning and pond design and construction.
Sanjib Sutradhar, Fisheries Inspector at the Fisheries Sub-Station, Billiground, discussed scientific fish feeding practices and feed management. He also outlined government schemes and support programmes available to the fisheries sector.
The training included a practical demonstration of applying probiotics in fish ponds. The exercise highlighted their use in maintaining water quality and pond health, as well as supporting fish growth and productivity.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of Y. Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist and Head (In-charge), ICAR-KVK, Nimbudera, and Jai Sunder, Director (Acting), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram.
