The Fisheries Development Center Bhandara is playing a vital role in Nepal’s growing aquaculture sector. This year, the center is preparing 6.71 million fish sawdust for sale, targeting the distribution of 60 million fish aged 4 to 7 days, 6.5 million 1-month-old fish, and 6 million 2-to-3-month-old fish.
Affordable and Accessible Fish Sawdust
Head of the center, Madhav Prasad Dahal, revealed that 4 million fish sawdust are currently ready for sale. Farmers from districts like Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Bara, Parsa, Rautahat, Gorkha, Lamjung, Tanahun, Kaski, and Kapilvastu are choosing the center due to its affordable pricing compared to private suppliers.
Fish sawdust is priced as follows:
- 4–7 days old (Naini and Raghu breeds): Rs. 1 lakh per 2,000 pieces
- Other species: Rs. 1 lakh per 2,500 pieces
- 1-month-old fish: Rs. 25 per piece
- 2–3 months-old fish: Rs. 75 per piece
Boosting Local Economy and Production
Operating a 15-hectare reservoir, the center produces popular fish breeds like bighead carp, common carp, bhakur (cuttle), raghu, naini, silver carp, and grass carp. These fish are sold as both edible fish and sawdust, ensuring availability throughout the year.
Last year, the center sold:
- 70 million 4–7-day-old fish sawdust
- 10 million 1-month-old fish sawdust
- 600,000 2–3-month-old fish sawdust
Revenue from sawdust sales alone reached Rs. 76 lakh. This year, the center expects even higher demand and revenue growth.
Expanding Demand Amid Challenges
Despite the increasing demand for fish sawdust, the center faces a shortage of skilled workers, limiting its capacity to meet the growing needs. Dahal emphasized that enhancing sawdust production could significantly reduce fish imports and boost local aquaculture.
A Bright Future for Nepal’s Fisheries
Established in 2026 BS to promote edible fish, the Bhandara Fisheries Center has been diversifying its offerings since 2064 BS. With its focus on affordability, quality, and accessibility, the center is helping to uplift Nepal’s fisheries sector, providing economic opportunities for farmers and reducing the country’s dependency on imports.
Discover Nepal’s Aquaculture Potential
Nepal’s fisheries sector is thriving, showcasing the nation’s potential in sustainable aquaculture. Stay tuned for more updates and explore how Nepal is empowering its farmers and boosting its economy.
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