Tripura, 13 May 2025: At a time when many young individuals, despite attaining higher education, are plagued by frustration due to unemployment, Tapas Majumdar has emerged as a remarkable exception. He has demonstrated that if one utilizes their existing resources and opportunities wisely, there is no dearth of work. Maintaining a deep connection with land and water, he has proven that it is possible to build a successful life. His story shows that with intelligence, focus, and hard work, success is achievable in any field. Tapas Majumdar is a graduate and a determined young man from Durganagar Gram Panchayat under Jirania Block. After completing his education, instead of wasting time searching for employment, he chose a livelihood deeply rooted in his rural background.
At his home, there were three medium-sized ponds, which he saw not merely as water bodies, but as doors of opportunity. Stepping through that door, he ventured into the world of fish farming. He began by scientifically and systematically preparing his ponds for pisciculture. Through regular maintenance, proper feeding, water management, and the use of modern methods, he gradually moved toward profitable production.
Thanks to his dedication and foresight, his fish production has reached a notable level today. Fish farming has not only made him financially self-reliant but also helped support his children’s higher education. Initially, during the 2019–20 financial year, he had only three ponds totaling 0.32 hectares. At that time, he practiced conventional fish farming methods and earned approximately Rs. 25,000 per month—enough to sustain his family.
However, over time, he began to feel disheartened by the monotonous work and limited income. Doubts crept in—was it really worth continuing? It was then that he came into contact with the Fisheries Department.
Their advice, guidance, and training in modern fish farming rekindled his interest. His perspective changed—he realized that with proper planning and the use of technology, fish farming could become a profitable profession. This marked a turning point in his life. Where there once was hesitation, there was now confidence. With the help of the Fisheries Department, he transformed his small ponds into potential-rich farming grounds. Through the department, he received technical training, scientific advice, and modern techniques. Gradually, he upgraded his ponds to resemble a modern fish farm.
He also received high-quality fish seeds, feed, and medicine from the department, all of which positively impacted his production. He began implementing advanced water management practices—like water purification, scheduled feeding, and maintaining proper pH levels. As a result, his production increased significantly. What started with three ponds covering 0.32 hectares has now expanded to five ponds spread over 1.24 hectares.
This journey is not just a result of hard work but a shining example of making the best use of proper guidance and government support. The Jirania Fisheries Office played an active role in his success.
In an interview, Fisheries Supervisor Sujata Debbarma shared that Tapas Majumdar received various forms of government support under departmental schemes such as the Paddy-cum-Fish Culture and Semi-Intensive Fish Farming projects. Additionally, upon recommendation from the department, he was able to secure a loan under the Kisan Credit Card scheme from a local bank—further fueling his venture.
With this support and applicable knowledge, he not only utilized his own ponds but also took two larger ponds on lease to expand his operations. His total pond area now stands at 1.24 hectares. But he didn’t stop there. He also started producing fish fingerlings, especially Indian Major Carps, turning his farm into an integrated production hub.
His farm not only supplies fish to markets but also fulfills the demand for fish seeds. Today, his annual income is approximately Rs. 4.5 lakh. This income has made him not only financially independent but has also established him as a successful entrepreneur. Through hard work, perseverance, and the right guidance, Tapas Majumdar has not only become a successful fish farmer but also an inspiration for educated and semi-educated unemployed youth in society.
(This feature was written by Goutam Das, courtesy of the ICA Department.)
