CMFRI launches fish feed production training for SC beneficiaries

Hands on training on fish feed production at CMFRI.

To enhance livelihood of marginalised community, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has launched a three-day hands-on training on fish feed production using black soldier fly (BSF) larvae to the fish farmers belonging to scheduled caste community.

The training is aimed at empowering beneficiaries of CMFRI’s Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) with practical knowledge and skills in sustainable feed formulation and production techniques for cage fish and bio-floc farming practices. CMFRI had already developed the technology to produce fish feed using BSF larvae, a nutrient rich and eco-friendly alternative protein source.

CMFRI Director Grinson George, who inaugurated the training, said that this initiative is part of CMFRI’s ongoing efforts to enhance livelihood opportunities for marginalised coastal communities through targeted capacity building.

Cost control

The cost of feed is a major factor in fish farming, making up 40-60 per cent of total operational cost in general. This is even higher in intensive farming system. Hence, cost effective pellet feed preparation is crucial to increase profit from cage and bio-floc fish farming, which are becoming popular livelihood options for many, including women”, he said.

The participants will be trained in processing BSF larvae into fish feed, showcasing its potential to reduce dependency on conventional fish meal and promote circular economy practices in coastal aquaculture, George added.

The fish feed using BSF larvae is effective to support fish growth in aquaculture making it a viable substitute for conventional feed ingredients such as fish meal and soybean.

Under the SCSP scheme, CMFRI supports fish farmers belonging to SC community to undertake cost-effective coastal aquaculture practices including cage fish farming and bio-floc farming.

Published on July 10, 2025