BASANTI, SOUTH 24 PARGANAS

 In a powerful demonstration of science-led agriculture, a State Bank of India (SBI) funded Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative has successfully transformed underutilized backyard ponds in the ecologically fragile Sundarbans into thriving, sustainable economic assets.

Implemented by the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), the project in Haldarpara village (Basanti Block) has emerged as a highly scalable model for climate-resilient aquaculture, significantly boosting rural prosperity and food security in the region.

 A Leap in Production and Income

The results of the initiative, showcased during a recent Training-cum Concluding Workshop on August 3, highlight dramatic socio-economic improvements for local communities through the adoption of scientific pond management.

Key Impacts of the Initiative:

Production Surge:Average annual fish production skyrocketed by nearly 190%, jumping from 428.2 kg to a remarkable 1,240.5 kg per acre.

Economic Growth: Annual household income generated from fish farming nearly tripled, rising from ₹13,900 to ₹39,000.

Nutritional Security: The abundance of fresh fish has directly improved the dietary health and nutritional intake of participating families.

Empowering Women and Building Resilience

Beyond the economic metrics, the project has driven notable social change. Women made up nearly half of the active beneficiaries, utilizing the backyard ponds to take charge of household earnings and strengthen their financial independence.

Addressing stakeholders at the workshop, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, emphasized the importance of translating scientific research into tangible community benefits. He noted that the "Haldarpara model" is a prime example of how scientific aquaculture can build climate resilience in vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

“This collaboration among SBI, ICAR-CIFRI, the Department of Fisheries and local communities demonstrates how science, partnerships and community participation can strengthen resilient fisheries-based livelihoods, empower rural women and advance the Blue Economy,” Dr. Dey stated.

 Equipping Farmers for the Future

During interactive sessions, beneficiary farmers shared their grassroots experiences, noting how continuous technical support and capacity-building had bolstered their confidence in professional fish farming.

To ensure the long-term sustainability of these gains, the concluding workshop wrapped up with the distribution of essential aquaculture tools to the farmers, including cast nets, pH meters and lime.

By successfully turning stagnant water resources into engines of rural prosperity, the SBI and ICAR-CIFRI initiative has provided a practical, replicable blueprint for sustainable development across the broader Sundarbans and other vulnerable landscapes in India.