Patna. A new initiative is being taken in Bihar to increase the income of farmers and strengthen the rural economy. The state government is now preparing to implement the ‘electricity at the top, fish at the bottom’ model on a larger scale. Under this scheme, both solar energy production and fish farming will be promoted from one place, which will provide an opportunity to farmers for additional income.
Scheme will start in 6 new districts
After the initial experiment of this scheme in Darbhanga and Supaul, it will now be expanded to six more districts. There are preparations to start this project in Jamui, Rohtas, Nawada, Banka, Munger and Kaimur. Priority is being given especially to those areas where there is a need to increase power supply and employment opportunities.
Solar panels will be installed over the pond
The method of this scheme is quite different. In this, solar panels will be installed on the surface of the pond. Electricity will be generated from these panels, while fish farming will be done in the same pond. That means farmers will be able to produce both energy and fish production from the same resource. Initially, emphasis is being laid on promoting rearing of fishes like tilapia and their related processing operations.
Fish farming will also benefit
The solar panels installed on the pond will not only generate electricity but will also prove helpful in fish farming. These panels will create shade on the water, which will reduce the impact of strong sunlight and keep the temperature of the water controlled. This will create a better environment for fishes.
Farmers’ costs will reduce
Aerator machines are needed to maintain oxygen in water during fish farming. In this scheme, farmers will be able to run these machines with solar energy. This will reduce electricity expenses and dependence on diesel. Farmers are expected to get more profits due to reduction in production costs.
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