Socio-economic impact of fish farming in indigenous communities, Phewa Lake, Pokhara, Nepal

Abstract

In Nepal fish farming in Phewa Lake has become the alternative way of income for the communities residing around the lakes, rivers and reservoirs. In areas close to water bodies, only communities of untouchables, poor, and indigenous have a tradition in fisheries. So, to increase the economic and social status of the poor, untouchable and indigenous people, fish farming was introduced. After the introduction, fish farming has become increasingly important source of income for the marginalized and indigenous communities especially in Pokhara valley. Before, the development of fish farming activities started, there was social discrimination of the indigenous and untouchables people. However, now the things have changed, these communities are producing fish that other people buy from these communities. These communities are benefiting from fish farming and fish related activities and poor are now able to send their children school. After the successful introduction of fish farming in the lakes of Pokhara valley, the same technique was adopted in the Kulekhani reservoir, for the settlement of the peple of the communities that was displaced by the development of hydropower in Kulekhani area. Thus, Fish farming and fish related activities have helped the poor, indigenous and marginalized communities by providing income, food, security and a healthy environment, where they now live without being discriminated. The cooperative organization has played a significant role in helping the untouchable and poor communities with fish and fish related activities. With the development of fish farming: Community participation, group cohesiveness, community mobilization are among the things that have contribute a positive change for the untouchable people. An awareness program for the preservation of the wetland and indigenous fish species, fingerling supply for the poor people and removal of the weed from the water are the main important activities of the cooperative. Besides, the cooperative has helped the fish farmers, with buying and providing the necessay inputs and to secure good prices for the fish. Fisher’s cooperative and the Government organization are putting its effort to enhance the aquaculture development throughout the country. Government organizations are providing training for the new comers in fish farming activities and providing free fingerlings to the poor people. This has helped in enhancing aquaculture development and attracts people to the fish farming business and fish related activities. It also contributes to country’s economy.