ICAR-CCARI, Goa established a small-scale demonstration unit of ornamental fish culture in Sanquelim, Goa

   ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI), Goa, established a small-scale ornamental fish culture unit for the skill development of SHGs at Sanquelim village in North Goa under the project "Entrepreneurship Development and Livelihood Improvement through Demonstration and Training of Sustainable Ornamental Fish Culture in Goa," funded by NABARD, on 14th August 2024. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. A. Raizada (Director In-charge of the institute), along with Shri Trivesh S. Mayekar and Dr. Shirish D. Narnaware (Scientists from Animal Science and Fisheries Sciences). Shri Kishore (Project Officer SHG North Goa), Smt. Harshada H. Ballal (President of Safal Self Help Group), and other SHG members also participated in the event. Around 20 women farmers from Sanquelim are expected to benefit from this unit.

   A warm welcome was extended to all dignitaries and attendees by Shri Trivesh S. Mayekar, who outlined the project's goals, action plan, and ICAR's initiatives to support entrepreneurship development in Goa. A demonstration of bamboo aquariums was conducted to showcase entrepreneurship opportunities. Dr. Shirish D. Narnaware emphasized the potential of ornamental fish farming as a livelihood option, highlighting the importance of ornamental fisheries.In his inaugural speech, Dr. A. Raizada, the Director In-charge, underscored the significance of local community involvement and the role of Self Help Groups in promoting ornamental fish culture as a viable source of income. He stressed the importance of focusing on marketing and assured the Self Help Group and local farmers that the institute would provide full technical support. The Institute encouraged SHGs to establish more ornamental fish units in the region, fostering entrepreneurship among women and youth.The SHG members expressed their gratitude for the support provided by ICAR and NABARD. A farmer-scientist interaction was held to discuss future plans of action. The institute looks forward to continued collaboration with stakeholders to enhance community well-being through entrepreneurial initiatives in ornamental fish culture. The program was coordinated by Shri Trivesh S. Mayekar, Dr. Sreekanth G.B., Melbin Lal (Young Professional), and Vishwajit Prajapati.