Field Visit to Cage Culture and Duck Farming Unit at Poochakkal, Kerala

    A field visit was organized to the cage culture and duck farming units located at Poochakkal, Kerala, on 6 November 2025 under SCSP programme. Dr. Sreekanth GB, Senior Scientist (FRM), ICAR-CCARI interacted with the six SC farmer members (5 female and 1 male) of the Vaikkathappan self-help group engaged in cage fish culture in Vembanad estuary and duck farming. During the interaction, farmers shared their experiences regarding species selection, feed management, disease control, and the economic viability of farming. Dr. Sreekanth offered valuable guidance on improving productivity, maintaining water quality, and adopting sustainable practices to enhance profitability and environmental balance. He shared valuable information on the feed management for the ducks utilising the trash fish available from the local markets. He suggested to use a seed collection net trap near the cages to collect pearlspot seeds for stocking in the cages. The farmers also discussed the challenges they face, including fluctuating market prices, feed costs, and disease management. The farmers appreciated the guidance from the institute and requested for the input support for fish seeds and ducks to strengthen the farming operations.