A study on the economics of scientific based inland fish farming practices in Kalyana Karnataka

Abstract

The burgeoning human population in India has escalated the demand for fish, pressuring aquaculture to augment fish production as the natural supply falls short. This study explores the potential of inland fish farming to meet this demand, emphasizing the need for scientific methods and adequate nutrition. Using an ex-post-facto research design, the study was conducted in Raichur district of Karnataka with a sample size of 120 fisheries farmers. Costs were categorized into fixed and variable costs, encompassing various expenses from seed to labor. Results indicated that substantial initial investments in pond construction, with variable costs like feed and labor constituting 73.04% of total expenses. The economic analysis revealed a cost-benefit ratio of 2.44, demonstrating the viability of inland fish farming. The study explains the importance of government support through subsidies and loans and the adoption of scientific practices for enhancing productivity and profitability. It provides baseline data on the economic advantages, costs and returns of scientifically managed inland fish farming, aiming to inform and persuade farmers towards improved practices for sustainable growth.