Ornamental fish culture training program held

Last Updated on March 2, 2023 by SPN Editor

A two-day training program on “Entrepreneurship Development through Ornamental Fish Culture” was commenced yesterday for Scheduled Caste farmers of Manipur.

The training program is being held at the seminar hall of the Department of Commerce at Manipur University and is jointly organized by the Department of Zoology at Manipur University in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research, Bhimtal.

The program was inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of Manipur University, Professor N Lokendra Singh, as the chief guest. Professor GKN Chhetry, Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences at Manipur University, was the guest of honor. Professor Th Binoy Singh, Head of the Department of Zoology at Manipur University, and Dr. Pramod Kumar Pandey, Director of ICAR-DCFR, were present as the functional president.

Speaking as the chief guest, Professor Naorem Lokendra emphasized the importance of ornamental fish culture in the socio-economic development of the Scheduled Caste farmers of the State. He said that through the business of ornamental fish culture, people can earn significant amounts of money with minimal investments.

Professor Lokendra encouraged the fish farmers, particularly the youth, to keep a close watch on this viable business and make efforts to become successful entrepreneurs. He also urged the participants to learn how to make aquariums through the training program, noting that if they develop this skill, they could also export aquariums outside the State.

In her welcome address, Dr. Rameshori Yumnam, Assistant Professor at the Department of Zoology, shared that the program will educate the participants about ornamental fish culture, aquarium-making, aquarium maintenance, and how these activities can improve their economic condition and standard of livelihood.

In his presidential address, Dr. Pandey emphasized the role of the sector in the development of rural women folk, adding that the sector can play a crucial role in strengthening the economy of the State.

The inaugural program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Pragyan Dash, a Scientist at ICAR-DCFR.

Around 30 fish farmers belonging to the Scheduled Caste community from various districts of the State attended the training program, which is scheduled to end today.