Fish farmers for parity in electricity charges with agriculture sector

Though, the fish productivity of the state is highest in the country, still there is immense scope to boost fish production through the introduction of appropriate technologies and practices. Dr O S. Parmar, Director Extension Education (DEE), GADVASU, addressing the members of executive committee of Punjab Fish Farmers Club (PFFC) has emphasized on the development of sustainable aquaculture industry in Punjab in order to meet the consumer’s demand for high quality nutritive and competitively priced food, to generate employment opportunities in rural areas and for the long term economic growth of the farmers.

Fish farmers discussed their problems with the technical experts, Dr Kamaldeep Kaur and Dr Asha Dhawan, they were advised to use quality seed, balanced feed and scientific management practices.

For making fish farming more profitable, they were also advised to integrate fish farming with poultry or dairy or piggery. All the members stressed that the electricity charges on commercial rates is the major constraint in the development of aquaculture as an industry in the state.

As the fish pond water is not only used for raising fish and bathing cattle, but its nutrient rich water is also used for irrigation as and when required, so aquaculture should be considered at par with agriculture especially with respect to electricity charges.

Source: LUDHIANA Newsline