Ambikapur, December 4, 2024 With the help of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, Gangadhar Paikara, a resident of Karabel village in the Mainpat block of Surguja district, has transformed his life. From living with financial struggles to becoming a prosperous fish farmer earning lakhs, his story is a testament to determination and the benefits of government support.
The Beginning: Learning the Basics
Gangadhar, a graduate in Bachelor of Fisheries Science from the College of Fisheries, Kawardha, had always aspired to pursue a postgraduate degree. However, financial constraints in his agricultural family made further studies impossible. Determined to build a career in fisheries, he started working at fish farms to gain practical experience. Though the pay was modest, the knowledge he gained laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey.
Turning Point: Starting His Venture
In 2023, Gangadhar decided to start his own fish farming business and approached the fisheries department. With guidance and support under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, he established 18 cage units in the Kunwarpur Reservoir of the Lakanpur block. The government approved a 60% subsidy, amounting to ₹32 lakh, which enabled him to set up the infrastructure and stock approximately 40,000 fish seeds.
Results: From Struggles to Success
Within just nine months, Gangadhar achieved remarkable success. He produced 35 tons of fish, valued at ₹33.44 lakh, and sold them in wholesale markets in cities like Renukoot and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), as well as Ambikapur and Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh). After deducting costs, he earned a net profit of ₹10 lakh within this short period.
Gangadhar expressed his joy, saying:
“Fish farming is truly a profitable venture. I first learned the nuances of the work and then started my business. It feels great that, having once lived in poverty, I am now able to provide employment to others.”
Empowering Others
Gangadhar’s success is not limited to his personal achievements. He has created employment opportunities for 8-10 individuals in his cage farming operation, contributing to the local economy.
Impact of Government Initiatives
Gangadhar credits his success to the supportive schemes launched by the government. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana have played a pivotal role in attracting educated youth towards agriculture and allied activities, including horticulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries.
His story highlights the potential of such initiatives to uplift farmers and youth, enabling them to achieve prosperity through innovative and sustainable practices. With determination and proper support, Gangadhar Paikara has not only changed his own life but has also inspired many others to explore the opportunities in agriculture and fish farming.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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