Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya – 22nd August 2024: A day-long training program on the Paddy cum Fish Integrated Farming System, also
known as integrated fish and rice cultivation, was successfully organized by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ri Bhoi in collaboration with the Block Mission Management Unit
of the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihood Society (MSRLS) represented by Ms Naphisabet Lapang, Cluster Coordinator and Ms Monalika Maiong Senior CRP along with 23 farmers on August
22, 2024, at Lalumpam Village, Ri Bhoi District.
The training was led by Mr. Bankitkupar Mukhim, Subject Matter Specialist (SMS) in Fisheries, who provided an in-depth explanation of
the Paddy cum Fish Integrated Farming System and its numerous benefits for the agricultural community. The system, which integrates rice cultivation and fish farming in the same field,
is recognized as a sustainable agricultural practice that leverages the natural synergies between rice and fish, resulting in enhanced productivity and sustainability.
During the training, participants learned how the system works, with rice being cultivated as the primary crop while fish are reared in the
same field. The paddy field is strategically modified by digging canals or trenches, providing suitable habitats for the fish. Water levels are carefully managed to ensure optimal conditions
for both rice and fish growth.
Mr. Mukhim also highlighted that the canals are dug at a depth of at least 0.5 to 0.6 meters and are 1 meter wide, serving as refuges for the fish.
The elevated dykes, with a gentle slope, retain water and protect against overflow, while inlets and outlets are installed with fine screening to ensure proper water flow.
In this system, two weeks after paddy transplantation, fingerlings of Amur common carp (main species), catla, rohu, mrigal, silver carp, and gonius are
stocked at a density of 6,000 to 7,500 fingerlings per hectare of paddy. Fish production from one hectare is expected to yield around 400 kg, while paddy production can reach 3.5 to 4.5 tonnes per hectare.
Given Meghalaya's hilly terrain and its reliance on agriculture, particularly paddy farming, this integrated approach is expected to significantly boost productivity.
The promotion of this technology will not only enhance rice and fish yields within a short period but will also improve nutritional security and livelihoods for farmers across the region.
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