Inland fisheries in India have emerged as a strong livelihood option for small and marginal farmers, contributing significantly to income, nutrition, and water productivity. Recognising this potential, DHAN Foundation with the financial support of ITC CSR implemented farm pond interventions in Viralimalai Block, Pudukkottai District, between 2018 and 2025. A total of 546 farm ponds were constructed, of which 346 farmers adopted fish rearing and 156 continued it as a secondary livelihood. To assess sustainability, a detailed study was conducted among 103 farmers across 18 panchayats and 53 villages.

The study shows that fish rearing in farm ponds is both economically viable and socially inclusive. The average landholding of respondents is 3 acres, indicating predominance of small and marginal farmers. Farm ponds enhance agricultural resilience by enabling protective irrigation and supporting double cropping. Integrated use of water for crops, livestock, and fisheries strengthens farm livelihoods and reduces dependency on rainfall.

Farmers rear species such as Catla, Rohu, Murrel, Tilapia, and Common Carp. Feeding and pond maintenance form the major costs, with average annual expenditure of ₹39,517 per farmer. The average gross income from fish rearing is ₹1,09,535, resulting in a net profit of ₹70,018 per annum and a healthy profit margin of about 64 percent. Farmers with assured water sources and those practicing yearly harvest cycles achieve significantly higher profits. Exclusive fish rearing ponds generate more than double the returns compared to shared agriculture-fish systems.

Beyond income, farm ponds improve household nutrition, generate local employment, and promote decentralized water conservation. Nutrient-rich pond water enhances soil fertility and crop productivity, strengthening environmental sustainability. Challenges include water scarcity in rainfed ponds, fish mortality, protection, and the need for continuous technical training.

Overall, the study concludes that farm pond fisheries are a profitable, scalable, and sustainable livelihood model for small farmers. Strengthening water security, scientific pond management, quality fingerling supply, collective marketing, and formation of a Fisheries FPO can further enhance incomes and ensure long-term livelihood resilience in Viralimalai Block.

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