Kanker Emerges as Chhattisgarh’s Fish Seed Hub Kanker Leads the State in Fish Seed Production and Export
Raipur, June 18
Kanker district in Chhattisgarh has set a remarkable example in the field of fisheries. The district has not only become a leader in fish seed production but also plays a key role in supplying fish seed to several states across India. Fish seed production and export have added a new dimension to the district’s economy.
Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai stated that this achievement by Kanker is a significant step towards a self-reliant and prosperous rural economy in Chhattisgarh. Fish farmers in the Pakhanjur region have successfully brought the concept of the “Blue Revolution” to life. This success is the result of effective implementation of government schemes, local participation, and the dedication of hardworking fish farmers. The state government will continue to provide every possible support to further promote fisheries.
It is noteworthy that just a few years ago, Kanker district relied on West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh for fish seed. However, today, the Pakhanjur region in the Koylibeda development block is bustling with numerous pickup vehicles, fish farmers, and active hatcheries. This transformation has been made possible through the Blue Revolution Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, under which fish seed hatcheries and ponds were constructed. Thanks to effective execution of these schemes, Pakhanjur now produces surplus fish seed.
Currently, high-quality and cost-effective fish seed produced in Kanker is not only being supplied to other districts of Chhattisgarh but is also being exported to other states like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Bihar. Pakhanjur’s seed stands out for its superior quality, affordability compared to other states, and early availability in months like April and May, helping farmers begin fish farming on time.
According to the Assistant Director of the Fisheries Department, a total of 34 fish seed hatcheries are currently operating in Kanker district. For the year 2025–26, the target is to produce 33.7 billion spawn and 1.2835 billion standard fry. So far, the district has produced 19.2 billion spawn and 742 million standard fry. The hatcheries here are producing seeds for major carps as well as Pangasius fish.
Fish farmers Mr. Biswajit Adhikari and Mrinal Barai mention that 10 to 15 pickup vehicles loaded with fish seed leave the area daily for other districts and states.
The success of fish seed production in Pakhanjur has directly and indirectly provided employment to around 550 local people. Rural communities involved in fish seed production, transport, sales, and related activities are now earning a stable income. Today, Kanker district stands as a symbol of Chhattisgarh’s fisheries prosperity. The hatchery revolution has freed the state from external dependence and made Kanker the top choice for high-quality fish seed across the country.