Institution based intervention on promoting composite fish culture in rural Odisha: A case of KVK-Khordha

Abstract

The present study deals with an institution driven technology dissemination approach in promoting composite fish culture in Khordha district of Odisha. A sample of 42 fish farmers benefitted from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) were analysed to understand the adoption of Scientific Management Practices (SMP), effectiveness of KVK activities and constraints faced by farmers. Majority of the farmers were of middle aged group, practicing grow-out culture by utilizing their own financial resources. The adoption of SMPs was found to be higher after the intervention of KVK in the respective villages by practicing soil and water analysis, scientific stocking density, supplementary feeding techniques and other relevant practices to increase fish production. The respondents of the study perceived that the Front Line Demonstrations was the most effective method compared to other activities/services of KVK. Constraints faced in practicing aquaculture were high cost of feed, lack of financial support, poor retention of water in ponds, disease outbreak and issues related to lease period and value. The study concludes that institutions are vital for the welfare and also updating with technical know-how to achieve higher fish production.