Dr. Amit Ranjan
FISH NUTRITION RESEARCH
Dr. Amit Ranjan is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University in Chennai, India. He holds an M.F.Sc. in Fish Nutrition & Feed Technology and a Ph.D. in the same field. Dr. Ranjan completed his B.F.Sc. in Fisheries Science with Distinction from Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi.
His research focuses on fish nutrition and feed technology, with specific expertise in maximizing the utilization of de-oiled rice bran in fish diets. He has conducted extensive studies on the dietary energy requirements of different fish species, including Pangasianodon hypophthalmus and Labeo rohita, and has explored the impact of exogenous enzymes and additives on fish growth, health, and gene expression.
Dr. Ranjan's research work has been published in renowned scientific journals such as Food Research International, Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, and Aquaculture International, among others. His studies have contributed valuable insights into improving the nutritional quality and sustainability of fish feeds.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Ranjan has received several honors and awards, including the Prof. KH Alikunhi Gold Medal for Best Ph.D. Thesis and prestigious fellowships from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE). He has also been a recipient of scholarships and travel awards.
Through his research, teaching, and academic endeavors, Dr. Amit Ranjan continues to advance the field of fish nutrition and feed technology, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and contributing to the growth and development of the fisheries industry in India and beyond.
Dr. Amit Ranjan
The constraints faced by small-scale fishermen who invest significant effort in their livelihood greatly limit the potential of small-scale fisheries. The primary challenge is the inadequate support provided to these small-scale fishing operations. Through my experience working with numerous small-scale farmers, I've observed that they struggle to adequately nourish their fish populations. This is primarily due to the high cost associated with purchasing commercial fish feed, which remains largely inaccessible to small-scale fish farmers most of the time. The increasing expenses related to feed, the limited availability of feed at the farm, and the high cost of aquatic animal healthcare products are challenges that small-scale fish farmers find difficult to overcome. These factors hinder their ability to invest in these essential components necessary for achieving higher production. Ultimately, when they sell their fish or shrimp, the returns they receive are often insufficient to cover their initial investments in farming.
To improve the implementation of the Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) Guidelines and address the challenges faced by small-scale fishermen and fish farmers, the following recommendations can be considered
1. Government organizations should explore options for subsidizing or making affordable fish feed and other essential inputs available to small-scale fish farmers. This can alleviate the burden of high feed costs and promote higher production.
2.Establish financial assistance programs or micro-loan schemes specifically tailored for small-scale fish farmers. This can help them access capital to invest in feed, healthcare products, and other necessities for their operations.
3. Provide training and educational programs to small-scale fishermen and fish farmers on sustainable and cost-effective aquaculture practices. Equipping them with knowledge and skills can improve productivity and reduce losses.
4. Create platforms or support networks where small-scale fish farmers can access technical assistance, advice, and resources related to aquaculture practices, disease management, and marketing.
5. Facilitate access to fair and transparent markets for small-scale fish farmers, ensuring they receive a reasonable price for their products. This may involve establishing cooperative marketing arrangements or connecting them to larger markets.
6.Implement healthcare and disease management initiatives that are accessible and affordable to small-scale fish farmers. This can help maintain the health of their aquatic animals and reduce losses.
7. Invest in research and innovation in aquaculture to develop low-cost and sustainable alternatives for feed and healthcare products, tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers.
8. Emphasize the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly practices in small-scale fisheries. This not only benefits the environment but can also lead to cost savings in the long term.
9. Establish a system for monitoring and evaluating the impact of interventions and initiatives on small-scale fisheries. Regular assessments can help in adjusting strategies and ensuring they are effective.
By implementing these recommendations, policymakers, organizations, and communities can work together to overcome the constraints faced by small-scale fishermen and promote the sustainable growth of small-scale fisheries in line with the SSF Guidelines.