Author(s): Subhalaxmi Banerjee, BK Mahapatra and Basudeb Mondal

Abstract: In the Indian state of West Bengal, key districts popularly known for varieties of ornamental fish breeding & culture are Howrah and South 24 Parganas. However, the only wholesale market for ornamental fish trade is in CTI bazaar, Dasnagar, Howrah. From the present study it is revealed that about 3000 - 4000 pieces of fishes everyday which fetch them approximately 3000 INR/day. Almost 1500-1800 such collectors work in the business in the state among which 85% are concentrated in Howrah district alone. More than 1500 rural youths are occupied in the trade as collectors and earn livelihood. On the other hand ornamental fish farmers are constricted to breeding and culture operations. They are unaware about wholesale prices, demand pattern and quality requirement. It is observed that collectors have higher bargaining power and negotiate very low price. Farmers are thus affected by lower margins and sustainable growth of OFT in the state is at a stake. The document presents major varieties of fishes traded, the sales channels in OFT and its operations and reasons for poor economic growth of farmers (also referred as breeder and rearers) using a survey based methodology. A three prong approach of Developing farmers, Adopting new technologies and Channel design can ensure sustainable growth of the trade and inclusive development.

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