Nepal has over 27,000 fish ponds situated mainly in the Terai districts. The poor are mainly involved as small farmers who either own or lease small ponds to rear fingerlings up to table size for sale through small traders. Several ethnic groups are involved in fish production including the Malaha, Tharu, Mukhiya, Mushar and Majhi. However, only a small minority of ponds are managed by women.
Current productivity levels are low at about 3.8M t/ha, but there is evidence that this yield could more than double with improved management. Under-performance at the pond-level is mainly due to poor pond management practices, improper feeding and the use of low-quality fry and fingerlings.
Samarth-NMDP is focused on developing new business models for feed manufacturers, aqua chemical companies, hatcheries and nurseries to reduce barriers that prevent them from reaching smaller farmers. Through improved packaging, enhanced promotion and provision of information, the interventions aim to improve access of farmers to inputs, services and market - resulting in significant increases in productivity and incomes.
Current Interventions
1. Better Hatchery Management
2. Brood Stock Management
3. Improve Trade and Marketing
4. Enhance information of Aquaculture
Samarth-NMDP is implementing this project with Devtec.
