Training programme on “Poly-culture of Mugil cephalus with Penaeus monodon in Bheries” under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) at Digha Regional Station, ICAR- CMFRI

The Digha Regional Station of ICAR-CMFRI successfully conducted a three-day hands-on training programme on “Polyculture of Mugil cephalus with Penaeus monodon in Bheries” under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) from 29 th to 31 st July 2025. The programme aimed to empower 16 beneficiaries from three groups Mahakal Group, Monalisa Group, and Maa Chandi Groupcomprising members of various Scheduled Caste communities, including Namasudra, Keot, Jalia Kaibarta, and Rajbanshi.

The participants, residing in the coastal villages of Kalikapur and Deulbatta in the Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal, primarily depend on marine fishing, fish marketing, and related activities for their livelihood. In light of declining marine fishery resources, polyculture of various finfish and shellfish species presents a sustainable and income-enhancing alternative. This farming practice enables fishers to diversify their livelihoods while alleviating pressure on wild fish stocks and promoting the long-term sustainability of coastal fisheries.

The valedictory session and certificate distribution were graced by Dr. Prasad Chandra Tudu, Scientist-D, Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre (MARC), Zoological Survey of India, Digha. The training was efficiently coordinated by Dr. Subal Kumar Roul, Senior Scientist and Scientist-in-Charge, Digha RS, ICAR-CMFRI, with valuable technical support from Mr. Sudip Mandal, Young Professional-I, Digha RS, ICAR-CMFRI.