What’s Behind the New 'Indravati Fish' Brand in Kalahandi?
Kalahandi's New Fish Branding Initiative
Bhawanipatna: The government of Odisha has given the green light for the establishment of a unique brand named 'Indravati Fish' aimed at distinguishing the fish sourced from the Indravati reservoir located in Kalahandi district.
As per official reports, J Kerketa, the Joint Secretary of the state, instructed the Fisheries Director on September 11 to compile and present a comprehensive report regarding fish farming practices in the reservoir along with the branding proposal.
This initiative stems from a suggestion made by Prateek Joshi, the district coordinator for the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM) and Swavalambi Bharat Abhiyan (SBA), who urged the government to initiate this branding effort. The Chief Minister’s Office has since directed fisheries officials to draft a detailed project report.
Officials noted that the Indravati reservoir holds considerable promise for fishery advancements. Local fishermen have relied on this resource for years, and the district fisheries department has been advocating for cage culture, which involves breeding fish in enclosures within the reservoir. This method has enabled numerous local farmers to attain self-sufficiency.
In a pilot project launched in the Sanchatrang area of Thuamul Rampur block, one circular and two rectangular cages were installed in the reservoir, stocked with Amur Carp fingerlings.
Within a span of three to four months, the fish reached a weight of 1 kg each, yielding between 30-40 kg per cubic meter, according to officials. The district boasts around 10,000 registered fish farmers, collectively producing 31,000 metric tonnes of fish each year. In 2020, Kalahandi was acknowledged as the top-performing district in fisheries across the country.
Officials further mentioned that the demand for high-quality freshwater fish is on the rise in Odisha, and the Indravati reservoir is well-positioned to satisfy local requirements while also generating surplus for export to neighboring states.
If effectively marketed under the 'Indravati Fish' brand, Kalahandi could emerge as a significant fisheries center, decreasing reliance on fish from Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal.
Joshi expressed optimism that this initiative would enhance production, fortify fisheries cooperatives, boost income for women’s self-help groups, and secure livelihoods throughout the district.