Samman 2024 : Sarveshwar Narayan Singh: An example of new thinking in water conservation and fisheries

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh of Jakhini village in Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh has made water conservation and fisheries the aim of his life. Floods and water crisis problems are common in his village located in the Terai region of Ganga, but Sarveshwar Singh turned these challenges into opportunities. He is not only doing fish farming using traditional and modern techniques, but is also playing a leading role in water conservation efforts. Along with this, he is contributing to community development by providing employment to other farmers and families of his area.

Confluence of modern and traditional techniques in fisheries

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh believes that fisheries is not only a profitable business, but it is also an important means of employment generation in rural areas. He combines traditional and modern techniques for fish farming in ponds.

1. Traditional technique: He rears local species of fish, which are suitable for the climate and environment of his area.

2. Modern technology: He has incorporated modern techniques in fish farming, such as aerators (to increase the amount of oxygen in the water) and high-quality fish feed.

3. Water conservation: He stores rainwater by constructing ponds. This water is not only useful for fish farming, but also helpful for irrigation and water supply in the surrounding areas.

Model of water conservation in flood-prone area

The Gangetic plains often flood, causing heavy damage to crops. To find a solution to this problem, Sarveshwar Narayan Singh developed a new model towards water conservation.

1. Pond construction: He constructed many ponds with the help of the government. Rainwater is stored in these ponds.

2. Flood management: These ponds have helped in controlling flood water, reducing damage to his fields and surrounding areas.

3. Water conservation for fisheries: Fish are reared in these ponds, which uses water in a sustainable and profitable way.

Employment generation and community development

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh not only does fish farming himself but also provides employment to more than 10 families in his area.

1. Employment opportunities: Many local people are involved in the care, feeding, and sale of fish in his ponds.

2. Formation of farmer producer group: He has formed farmer producer group at Arazi Line block level. Through this group, farmers get help in accessing modern techniques and market.

3. Training and motivation: He tries to explain the importance of fisheries and water conservation to other farmers by sharing his experience and knowledge.

Benefits of government schemes

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh further strengthened his efforts by making proper use of government schemes.

1. Pond construction: He received assistance from the government for water conservation and fish seed rearing and got the ponds constructed.

2. Support in fisheries: The subsidy and technical support provided by the government has given a new direction to his efforts.

3. Motivation in agriculture and water conservation: His hard work and achievements have inspired other farmers to take advantage of government schemes.

Production and profits

The productivity and quality of fish in Sarveshwar Singh’s ponds is excellent. He supplies his fish mainly to local markets and hotels.

1. Production capacity: His ponds have a good yield of fish annually.

2. Economic benefits: Fish farming has given him more profits as compared to traditional farming.

3. Social identity: His efforts have empowered him not only economically but also socially.

Future plans

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh aims to expand fisheries further.

1. Expansion of technology: He wants to incorporate more modern equipment and techniques in his ponds. 2. Improve water conservation: They want to build more ponds in their area, which will improve water conservation and irrigation system.

3. Construction of training center: They want to set up a training center, where farmers and youth can be taught techniques of fisheries and water conservation.

4. Innovation in agriculture: They aim to establish a balance between agriculture and fisheries in their area, which will lead to overall development of the region.

Message to farmers

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh says, “Fisheries is not just a business, but it is a powerful medium of employment generation and water conservation. Farmer brothers and sisters should adopt it and improve their standard of living by using modern techniques.” 

Sarveshwar Narayan Singh’s story shows that if determination and hard work is done in the right direction, any problem can be turned into an opportunity. His efforts are an exemplary example of water conservation, fisheries and community development. He has not only improved his life but also inspired other farmers in his area. His journey is not only a farmer’s success story but shows that anything is possible with the right approach and hard work.