- Prime Minister’s Fisheries Sampada Yojana has given a new direction
Effective work is being done to strengthen the livelihoods of villagers through various state and central government schemes, including the Fisheries Department. Taking advantage of these schemes, young farmer Mr. Paklu Markam, a resident of Palli village in Kondagaon district, has set a new example of success through his hard work and dedication.
Mr. Markam began fish farming by constructing a pond on his land under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. Today, he not only cultivates fish but also earns an annual income of approximately ₹6 lakh by adopting an integrated farming system. He explained that in 2023, he received a grant of ₹660,000 under this scheme for the construction of the pond, which cost ₹11 lakh. Currently, he owns three ponds, in which he cultivates various fish species, including Rohu, Catla, Common Carp, Grass Carp, and Pangas. Along with fish farming, he has also adopted poultry, pig farming, and agriculture. He raises Sonali and indigenous breeds of chickens. He also raises Aseel, a chicken breed renowned for cockfighting, which commands a price several times higher than regular chickens. Additionally, he owns approximately 20 pigs and Khaki Campbell, Indian Runner, and Moti ducks, which provide additional sources of income. Besides this, they are also cultivating other crops including maize.
By combining various activities through an integrated farming system, Mr. Markam has expanded his income sources, significantly improving his financial situation. Today, he is not only self-sufficient but also an inspiration to other farmers in the area.