A chance visit to Hirakud Dam reservoir paved the way for 35-year-old Sujata Bhuyan to change her life’s trajectory completely. Hailing from Modipara area in Sambalpur, Sujata was a homemaker till she noticed the cage fishing activities at the dam. She learnt that it would be possible to set up her own venture, after taking due training; and that the government would also support her venture by granting her a subsidy.

Sujata underwent training under the Fisheries department. She found out that cage fish culture at Hirakud dam mostly involved circular cages of 16 m diameter and 5 m depth with potential to produce around 25-30 metric tonnes of fish. This modern aquaculture method cultivated fish in their natural environment by using floating netted enclosures that secured them from all sides. Species like tilapia and pangasius are usually cultivated and they require high quality feed.

After undergoing training, Sujata then applied for government subsidy. Of the total Rs. 54 lakhs estimated project cost, Rs. 32.4 lakhs were provided by the government, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampad Yojana. Her initial days as an entrepreneur were challenging, trying to balance home and business, and wrestling with unpredictable weather and difficulty in getting the right feed. But she managed to overcome all these obstacles gradually.

Sujata earned Rs 6 lakhs as profit in her first year. Slowly, she gained confidence and expanded her business over the years. She now owns 3 cages and caters to markets in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal. Her annual income has increased to 8-10 lakhs.

Sujata is a bright example for all those women at the grassroots level who want to become financially independent. Taking advantage of institutional support, women can certainly become successful entrepreneurs, just like Sujata.