DIMAPUR: A training programme on “New Pond Management Practices” was conducted at Sakhabama on May 7 under the Extension and Training Programme 2025–26 implemented by the Department of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland.
According to a DIPR report, the programme aimed to create awareness among farmers on modern fish rearing practices.
During the technical session, Sentinaro, DFO, spoke on new pond management methods and stressed the importance of mixed fish culture for better use of pond resources. She explained that rearing only one species of fish in a pond is not economical because different fish occupy different feeding zones such as the surface, middle and bottom layers of the pond.
She also spoke on supplementary feeding practices and said young fish require more protein. Farmers were advised to adjust feed composition as the fish grow and to feed fish regularly at fixed times, preferably in the morning, while distributing the feed evenly in the pond.
Sentinaro further highlighted the importance of developing phytoplankton and zooplankton in ponds through the use of organic and inorganic nutrient mixtures. She also informed farmers about fish disease prevention methods, including the use of salt, lime and potassium permanganate during seasonal changes.
Neikonuo, AFI, spoke on fish species suitable for cultivation in Nagaland. She said Catla and Silver Carp are surface feeders, Rohu feeds in the middle water layer, while Mrigal and Common Carp are bottom feeders. Grass Carp can utilize all layers of the pond.
She also spoke on Paddy-cum-Fish Culture (PFC), explaining that the system allows farmers to grow paddy and rear fish together, helping increase productivity and income from the same land.
The training highlighted that terrace paddy fields in districts like Kohima and Phek are suitable for integrated fish farming. Benefits of the system include improved pest control, better soil fertility, reduced fish production costs and better use of resources.
Participants were informed that fish species such as Catla, Rohu, Mrigal and Common Carp are suitable for PFC systems as they can tolerate shallow water and changing environmental conditions.
The session also covered site selection, pond specifications, stocking density and the role of fish in improving paddy cultivation through natural fertilization and pest control.
The programme concluded with practical demonstrations on fish feeding conducted by Zakiesiele, Fishery Inspector, and soil testing demonstrated by Neikonuo, A.F.I. The training was attended by around 30 farmers.
