Kanker Becomes Chhattisgarh’s Fish Seed Hub Leading District in Fish Seed Production and Export

Raipur, 18 June

Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district has set a new benchmark in the field of fisheries, emerging not only as a leader in fish seed production, but also in supplying quality seed to various states across India. This progress has given a significant boost to the district’s economy through fish seed production and exports.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai praised Kanker’s achievement as a major step toward building a self-reliant and prosperous rural economy in Chhattisgarh. He noted that fish farmers in the Pakhanjore region have truly realized the vision of the Blue Revolution. This success is a result of effective implementation of government schemes, local participation, and the dedicated efforts of hardworking fish farmers. He added that the state government remains fully committed to supporting and further encouraging fishery development.

Not long ago, Kanker had to depend on West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh for fish seed. However, today, the Koilibeda block of Pakhanjore is bustling with fish seed pick-up vehicles, fish farmers, and active hatcheries. This transformation has been made possible by initiatives such as the Blue Revolution Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, under which numerous fish hatcheries and ponds were developed.

As a result of these initiatives, Pakhanjore now produces surplus fish seed. The high-quality, cost-effective seed from Kanker is not only fulfilling the needs of other districts in Chhattisgarh but is also being exported to states like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Bihar. Pakhanjore’s seed stands out due to its early availability (in April-May), lower price, and superior quality, helping farmers begin fish farming on time.

According to the Assistant Director of the Fisheries Department, 34 fish seed hatcheries are currently operating in Kanker district. For the fiscal year 2025-26, the target is to produce 337 crore spawn and 128.35 crore standard fry. So far, the district has already produced 192 crore spawn and 7.42 crore standard fry. These hatcheries produce not only major carps but also Pangasius fish seed.

Local fish farmers Mr. Biswajit Adhikari and Mr. Mrinal Barai shared that 10–15 pick-up vehicles loaded with fish seed depart daily from the region to other districts and states.

This success in Pakhanjore’s fish seed production has created direct and indirect employment for around 550 local people. Rural communities involved in seed production, transport, sales, and related activities are now earning a sustainable income.

Today, Kanker has become a symbol of Chhattisgarh’s fishery prosperity. Its hatchery revolution has freed the state from external dependency and made it a first choice for quality fish seed across the country.