Fishing in the right waters
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COMMENTS 
The fisherwomen of Nayagarh, Orissa, are being trained in freshwater aquaculture. Their newfound economic stability means that they can finally afford to eat the fish they catch.
"Let's make fish-curry, fish-rice and also fish pickle tonight. Let's celebrate our success. We have earned Rs 4,900 in just four days. We can earn more than our men. God bless CIFA," chorused the fisherwomen of Nayagarh in Orissa. They had gathered to celebrate their success in selling their produce at the haat (market).
The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) was instrumental in bringing these women together. Six such groups now operate in nine districts of Orissa, where CIFA, Bhubaneshwar, started a special programme funded by the United Nation's Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM).
The project aimed at improving the technical skills of more than 300 women in this area. By focussing on different aspects of freshwater aquaculture, creating empowered co-operatives, forming self-help groups and imparting adult education, it helped to improve the quality of life.
Co-operatives formed by CIFA helped the women get loans at a low rate of interest. CIFA also trained women participants in effective management techniques, awareness of voting patterns, information and skills for fish breeding, intensive seed rearing and carp polyculture.
Training was also given in pond preparation, de-weeding, carp breeding, seed rearing and net mending. Making small-meshed nets and mending the existing ones greatly aided in increasing the catch.
The women are now the proud owners of quilts, gold nose-pins and transistors. They can even afford to eat fish. Their economic stability is be! ginning to be reflected in their habitat, and in surrounding areas as their knowledge is shared. The impact of the CIFA project has been impressive.
The men, though not a part of the CIFA project, enthusiastically participate in the shore-based activities, assisting the women in fish-seed rearing, pond fertilisation, integrated fish farming and composite carp culture. They also help in sorting and grading the fish catch from the rivers, reservoirs and lakes.
Contact: Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture
Kausalyaganga
Bhubaneshwar 751002,
Orissa, India
Tel:91-0674-465 421/465 446/465 430
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