Buddhadeb Maity, a resident of Ghagra in Mahishadal, has become a beacon of self-reliance for local youth. After years of working as a migrant laborer in other states, Buddhadeb returned to his roots with a dream to earn a living near his family. He started farming Shol fish in four cement tanks in front of his house using modern techniques—a move that is now earning him lakhs of rupees.

With the high demand for Shol fish in East Midnapore, especially for rituals at the Bargabhima Temple, Buddhadeb’s venture saw rapid growth. Starting with 5,000 fingerlings from Andhra Pradesh, he successfully raised fish weighing up to 2 kg in just eight months. “The cost of raising a fish is around ₹150–200, while it sells for ₹350 per kg in the market,” he shares.

This year, he has expanded his farm with 12,000 fingerlings. Buddhadeb now encourages other unemployed youths to embrace modern aquaculture instead of chasing jobs. His backyard farm has become a popular site for aspiring entrepreneurs looking for a sustainable business model.