Mysuru: The Karnataka Fisheries Department is promoting modern fish-farming technologies to help farmers increase fish production and improve their income. Biofloc and Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) technologies are being showcased at an exhibition stall during Raitha Dasara, held at J.K. Grounds from October 16 to 18.
The stall was inaugurated by Mysuru district in-charge minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah. Fisheries Minister K.S. Basavanthappa, Excise Minister K.M. Shivalingegowda, Agriculture Minister P.M. Narendra Swamy, Fisheries Department Director Dinesh Kaller and Joint Director Girish were among those present.
The initiative aims to encourage farmers to explore fish farming as an additional source of income by adopting scientific methods that can improve productivity while making efficient use of available resources.
Biofloc Technology Helps Increase Production in Limited Space
Biofloc is a modern fish-farming technique that uses microorganisms to recycle nutrients from fish waste. The system is designed to maintain water quality and support fish growth while reducing the need for frequent water replacement.
According to C.N. Bhavani, assistant director of the Mysuru Fisheries Department, the technology uses relatively little water and allows fish to be raised in tanks within a limited area.
The microorganisms help convert waste materials into nutrients that can be reused within the system. This can improve resource efficiency and support higher production when water quality and other farming conditions are properly managed.
Biofloc technology may be useful for farmers who have limited land or water resources but want to explore commercial fish production. However, successful implementation requires regular monitoring of water quality, oxygen levels, stocking density and other essential conditions.
RAS Enables Water Recycling for Fish Farming
The exhibition is also highlighting the Recirculating Aquaculture System, commonly known as RAS. This technology uses filtration units to clean water from fish-rearing tanks before circulating it back into the system.
By treating and reusing water, RAS can reduce water consumption and allow fish farming in controlled conditions throughout the year. The system also helps farmers monitor important parameters such as water quality, oxygen levels and waste accumulation.
The technology is particularly suited to commercial fish farming where production needs to be maintained in a controlled environment. It can support intensive farming, although the initial investment, electricity requirements, equipment maintenance and technical expertise must be considered before adoption.
Fisheries officials are using the Raitha Dasara exhibition to familiarise farmers with these approaches and explain how technology can contribute to more organised and productive aquaculture.
Raitha Dasara Promotes Modern Farming Practices
Raitha Dasara, organised as part of Mysuru’s Dasara celebrations, provides a platform to showcase agricultural practices, livestock and technologies aimed at improving farmers’ livelihoods.
The fisheries exhibition is part of the department’s effort to encourage diversification beyond conventional agricultural activities. Fish farming can offer farmers an additional income stream, particularly when production methods are adapted to local resources and market demand.
The display of Biofloc and RAS systems gives visitors an opportunity to learn about alternatives to traditional fish farming and understand the importance of scientific management.
Technology Adoption Could Support Farmers’ Income
Modern aquaculture systems offer opportunities to improve output from limited space and manage water resources more efficiently. However, farmers need suitable training, reliable technical support and a clear understanding of operating costs before investing in such systems.
Through its Raitha Dasara stall, the Fisheries Department is seeking to increase awareness of these methods and encourage farmers to assess their suitability for local conditions.
The initiative highlights the growing role of technology in agriculture and allied sectors, with fish farming emerging as one option for farmers looking to diversify production and strengthen their income opportunities.