Fish farmers raise a stink over defunct information centre
In Short
Fish farmers in Wanaparthy's Pebbair are criticizing authorities over the inactive Fish Disease Diagnosis Centre, demanding proper advisory services, awareness camps, and technical support.
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Fish farmers raise a stink over defunct information centre
Wanaparthy: Criticism is mounting regarding the Fish Farmers’ Information and Fish Disease Diagnosis Centre in Pebbair, which has effectively become non-functional. Established with the aim of providing information and advice to fish farmers, it operates under the College of Fisheries and is located at the old mandal office opposite the RTC bus-stand.
Despite the centre having existed for several years, many farmers remain unaware of its very existence. Locals are openly criticising the situation, noting that the government’s objective is being undermined because it is not being utilised.
Farmers are disappointed that the centre fails to provide information regarding fish farming, pond management, government schemes, subsidies, and technical guidance. Many are questioning the purpose of a facility established with public funds if it fails to benefit farmers.
Moreover, locals are expressing anger over parking of vehicles belonging to the college faculty on the premises. Farmers are urging officials to make the centre operational and to consistently provide services and information to farmers.
In a statement to The Hans India, Chintakayala Kurumurthy, mandal president, fisheries cooperative society, said, “Farmers are unaware of the existence of the centre. Last year, the fisheries college conducted a couple of awareness sessions for farmers on fish farming and pond management. The centre needs to be made operational. Awareness must be created regarding the government schemes and subsidies available; efforts should be made for their uplift.”
Dr Sakaram, associate dean, College of Fisheries, clarified, “The facility is strictly a diagnostic centre; it was set up because the main college campus is quite far away. Tests are conducted there whenever farmers visit, but awareness programmes or similar activities have never been held there. Since I arrived only last year, I am not aware of these matters.”
