Composite fish culture enhances fish productivity in rural Tripura, Northeast India

Abstract

Fish is highly esteemed in Tripura, Northeast India, where 95% of the population consumes fish, surpassing the recommended 11 kg per capita per annum. However, local production falls short due to technological gaps. This study aimed to augment fish production by introducing the four-species composite fish culture (CFC) technology. Over three years, demonstrations were conducted in fifteen
ponds across four villages in Dhalai district under low-input conditions. Annual fish production increased remarkably from 297-380 kg/ha before intervention to 935-1577 kg/ha after intervention. Gross profit per hectare surged from ₹ 58,386 to ₹ 223,192, and net profit per hectare rose from ₹ 15,719 to ₹ 112,383. The benefit-cost ratio escalated from 1.36 to 1.93, indicating improved economic returns. CFC adoption emerges as a promising means to enhance fish productivity in Tripura, presenting sustainable pathways for self-sufficiency in the region.