Abstract
The family and small-scale farming are inextricably linked to food security. This article evaluates the impact of the emergence of the concept of family fish farming in Haldia, West Bengal, a pilot family-farming-field-fish-school (FFFFS) program on integrated fishery management (IFM) practices related to proper resource utilization, species diversification with new species introduction, i.e.,
Amur common carp, P engba, Milkfish and Pearl spot, and field-based knowledge. The p ractical field-based information w as used to analyze and as an approach to create a comparison group similar to the FFFFS participants in observable characteristics.
The results are robust across the two approaches as well as with different matching methods. It was found that the families of farmers who participated in the program achieved significant success in the IFM practices related to proper resource utilization, interest in species diversification and field-based knowledge than those from the non- participant comparison group. It was also eviden t that the improved knowledge about IFM practices has the potential to significantly improve productivity, fish production as well as the farmers’ pr ofit. The f amily farming preserves the traditional food products while contributing to a balanced diet and safeguarding the aqua biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources. Family farming represents an opportunity to boost local economies, especially when combined with specific policies aimed at social protection and well-being of communities.