Success Stories In Asian Aquaculture - Library - Network of ...

5 Cage Fish Culture: An Alternative Livelihood Option for Communities93There are several influential farmers operating cage fish culture activities successfullyin the Association. There are also some who have not been able to repaythe bank loan. Among the most influential farmers, Mr. Ram Prasad Nagarkoti iswell known (Box 5.1).5.5 Cage Net Materials and AccessoriesSince ready-made net cages or net materials are not manufactured in Nepal, farmersdepend on suppliers/traders for obtaining cage material and accessories. In Pokharawhere cage fish culture was initiated first, nylon and polyethylene cages wereimported from Japan, Norway, and Britain. Some of these ready-made cages werebrought to Kulekhani later, but when the demand for cage materials increased, localdealers in Kathmandu imported the net material from China. Such cage materialand accessories may cost up to NRs 8,000–10,000 (US $ 126–158 @ 63 Rs. to 1US $) for a single cage of approximately 5 × 5 × 2 m cage with top and bottom covers.These materials are often rated low from life expectancy perspectives and qualityof the twine used.5.5.1 Gill Nets and Cast NetsNet materials for gill nets were generally brought from India or fishers might buythe net materials from local traders. The price of single gill nets depends on thelength of the net and ranges from NRs 1,000 to 2,000 (US $ 15–30). Similarly,Box 5.1 Mr. Ram Prasad Nagarkoti (46): The Case of a Successful CageFish Farmer in Kulekhani ReservoirMr. Nagarkoti, 46 year old, is one of the successful cage fish farmers inKulekhani Reservoir. He initiated cage fish culture with few cages in1993/1994 with the support of Fisheries Development Center, Kulekhani.He himself worked on the cages; cleaning, guarding, and protecting frompossible threats and natural disasters. As a result, he achieved better production.Later years with income from the fish sales, he added more cages,and at present, has 53 cages. His annual income has now reached approximatelyabout 0.2 million NRs. With the support of the income generated,Mr. Nagarkoti has built a house in Kathmandu, which is considered an assetin Nepal. He runs a hotel in Kulekhani with the income from the fishsales.