Bhadradri Kothagudem in collaboration with DHAN Foundation and supported by ITC, organized a People’s Policy Seminar on Freshwater Fisheries Development and an Awareness Programme

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bhadradri Kothagudem in collaboration with DHAN Foundation and supported by ITC, organized a People’s Policy Seminar on Freshwater Fisheries Development and an Awareness Programme on Fermented Organic Manure at KVK premises on 13.07.2026. Around 100 farmers and representatives from DHAN Foundation actively participated in the programme. Dr. T. Bharath, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK, welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of farm ponds as water-harvesting structures. He explained that farm ponds play a vital role in promoting inland fisheries development by utilizing small-scale water resources. He also emphasized the benefits of fermented organic manure and liquid fermented organic manure in improving soil health and sustainable crop production. Further, he briefed the farmers on the precautions to be taken in view of the possible El Niño effect and explained contingency crop planning strategies to minimize climate-related risks. Sri Venkaiah, District Project Manager (DPM), DRDA, explained the guidelines for farm pond construction and the support available under various government programmes. Sri Bhargav, Fisheries Officer, delivered a lecture on disease management practices in freshwater fisheries and advised farmers on preventive measures to improve fish health and productivity.

Mrs. K. Senthilarasi, Programme Leader, DHAN Foundation, explained the initiatives of DHAN Foundation in promoting inland fisheries development and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods through sustainable fisheries practices. Sri R. Jayaprakash, Programme Manager, ITC-MSK, Telangana, briefed the participants on the livelihood improvement initiatives being implemented by ITC in Bhadradri Kothagudem district and encouraged farmers to make effective use of the available opportunities. The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers discussed their experiences and clarified their queries regarding freshwater fisheries, farm pond management, fermented organic manure and climate-resilient agriculture.