Fish Farming: A Profitable Path to Self-Reliance, Says DC Preeti

Kaithal, August 5, 2025
In an effort to promote sustainable livelihoods and better use of natural water bodies, the District Fisheries Department organized a Fish Ranching and Conservation Program at Kotikoot Tirth, Kyodak. The event was graced by Deputy Commissioner Preeti, who released fish seeds into the lake and interacted with local villagers about their concerns.

Ranching for Fish Conservation and Livelihood

DC Preeti emphasized that fish farming is not just an income-generating activity, but also a smart and sustainable method to utilize water resources.

She explained that the ranching program aims to:

• Increase fish populations in natural water sources
• Protect and manage fish resources
• Support farmers’ incomes through low-investment, high-return models

“Ranching involves releasing young fish into rivers, ponds, or reservoirs to help rebuild natural populations,” she noted. “It’s a key part of the government’s mission to balance conservation with community benefit.”

Government Support Through PM Matsya Sampada Yojana

Highlighting the Prime Minister Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), DC Preeti informed villagers that the government is offering up to 40% subsidy on various fisheries-related infrastructure and projects, including:

• New pond excavation
• Fish seed nurseries
• Saline and alkaline land pond development
• Backyard and medium-scale ornamental fish units
• Cold storage and ice plant modernization
• Purchase of insulated or refrigerated transport vehicles
• Solar-powered systems for fish farming
• Leasing rural ponds for aquaculture

She encouraged the public to actively participate in this mission and become economically independent and self-reliant.

Community Awareness and Broader Message

Apart from fish farming, DC Preeti also advised villagers to:

• Follow traffic rules to ensure safety
• Stay away from drugs to contribute to a healthier society
• Focus on children’s education and moral development

“You can save your own and others’ lives by following traffic rules. Staying away from drugs will make you strong contributors to society. And educating your children is the foundation for a successful future,” she added.

Kaithal’s Impressive Fishery Stats

District Fisheries Officer Dilbagh Singh shared that currently, around 802 hectares are under fish farming in Kaithal, including:

• 650 ponds leased from Panchayats
• 152 privately-owned water bodies

In 2024–25, Kaithal produced 8,664 tonnes of fish. Popular varieties include:

• Rohu
• Katla
• Mrigal
• Prawn
• Common carp
• Silver carp
• Grass carp

In-depth Information on Government Schemes

Fisheries Officer Surya Prakash elaborated on available schemes, emphasizing that subsidies also extend to:

• Decorative fish farming
• Cold storage units
• Ice boxes and insulated motorbikes for small-scale vendors

These initiatives are aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector while ensuring inclusivity and reach at the grassroots level.

Villagers Raise Local Concerns

During the event, Village Sarpanch Jasbir Singh requested action on several issues including:

• Repair of dysfunctional tube wells in water supply systems
• Cleaning of village ponds and sewer lines
• Assistance for residents whose homes collapsed due to recent rains

DC Preeti assured the villagers that all genuine concerns will be addressed promptly, and encouraged them to visit her office anytime for support.