Restoration of the desiccated Janawada lake in Bidar district of Karnataka, as part of the Mission Amrit Sarovar programme under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), has rejuvenated a vital ecosystem, enhancing the livelihood of local fishermen by providing significant support to fish farming.
Rejuvenation of the 57-acre Janawada lake was taken up between November 2022 and April 2023 at a cost of ₹5 lakh. Janawada lake, which was drained a few years ago, was brought back to life during the last two monsoon seasons.
Kishan Singh, secretary of Sagar Society, said that they have nurtured over 4 lakh fingerlings. Fish harvesting is scheduled for a couple of days in a quarterly cycle pattern (once in every three months). At present, two societies comprising 65 members are engaged in fish farming, cultivating four primary species of fishes — goldfish, catla, mrigal and rohu. The harvested fish is sold in Bengaluru in Karnataka, Hyderabad in Telangana, and Pune in Maharashtra.
Mr. Singh emphasised the need for monitoring of the premises to prevent littering, ensuring the sustainability of both fishing practices and the lake’s environment.
The lake’s tranquil surroundings and picturesque environment are drawing local tourists and visitors from neighbouring villages.
“The lake’s transformation into a picnic spot is due to its natural beauty and accessibility,” said Girish Badole, Chief Executive Officer of Bidar Zilla Panchayat.
Janamma, Deputy Director of the Fisheries Department, Bidar, said that the rejuvenation of Janawada lake was taken up under Amrit Sarovar in 2022 with the ambitious goal of constructing or rejuvenating ponds and lakes. Janawada lake was one among 91 lakes taken up for rejuvenation under Amrit Sarovar Programme in Bidar district.
The lake has been leased out to Sagar society for fish farming. In the last two years, they have harvested around 10 quintals of fish, the officer added.