Author:
Robin Adhikari, Surendra Panthi, Pretty Shah, Sudeep Acharya, Sundar Jha

Doi: 10.26480/fabm.01.2025.15.25

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Fish farming is emerging as a vital agricultural enterprise in the Morang district of Nepal, offering employment opportunities and contributing significantly to local food security. This study investigated the production and marketing dynamics of fish farming in Sundarharaicha and Belbari municipalities, based on data collected from 60 respondents through field surveys in 2023. The findings reveal that 78.33% of fish farmers are male, with women primarily involved in supportive roles. Educational levels among respondents varied, with 40% having attained primary education. Polyculture dominated farming practices (76.7%), with fingerlings mainly sourced from private hatcheries (36.67%). Pond sizes varied, with 40% spanning 15-30 Katha (0.5-1 ha). The average annual variable cost was NRs. 400,191/ha, with feed accounting for 31.72% of expenditures. Despite these costs, fish farming demonstrated profitability, yielding an average annual profit of NRs. 390,591/ha and a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.40. Marketing margins averaged NRs. 40/kg, with producers retaining 87.5% of the retail price. However, challenges such as high feed costs, flooding, limited technical knowledge, and price fluctuations were prevalent. Addressing these constraints through improved technical support, modern resources, and infrastructure could enhance productivity, ensuring sustainable growth. The study highlights fish farming’s potential for economic impact at local and national levels.