Current Status and Scope of Carp-Mola Polyculture in Odisha

Carp-Mola culture is an important and sustainable aquaculture system in Odisha, blending traditional practices with modern techniques to enhance food security, increase fish production, and improve the socio-economic conditions of local communities. Carp-Mola culture in Odisha refers to a mixed aquaculture practice involving the farming of carp fish (specifically, Indian major carps like Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal) alongside smaller fish species such as Mola (Amblypharyngodon mola). This form of fish farming is prevalent in the state of Odisha, where fish is an essential part of the diet, and aquaculture plays a key role in rural livelihoods and the local economy. Undernutrition remains a pressing issue in developing countries, particularly impacting the health of women and children. Persistent micronutrient deficiencies necessitate effective interventions. In response, initiatives promoting Small Indigenous Fish Species (SIS) from freshwater ecosystems have gained momentum. Among these, the integration of mola (Amblypharyngodon mola) into conventional carp polyculture systems emerges as a promising strategy to combat nutritional deficiencies (Mohanty and Sarangi, 2024). Efforts are being made to improve the techniques and productivity of carp-Mola aquaculture through research. These initiatives focus on better breeding practices, disease management, and enhancing the efficiency of mixed species farming systems. Additionally, government programs and non- governmental organizations (NGOs) support fish farmers through training, extension services, and provision of subsidies for modernizing aquaculture practices.