Question

Given below are two statements
Statement I: Reservoirs in India are under-utilized for fish production
Statement II: Cage culture of carps is possible in reservoirs
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
• C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
• D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct

Hint:

Cage culture in reservoirs is often called the "second green revolution" in inland fisheries, as it bypasses the constraints of pond-land availability and utilizes vast open water bodies efficiently.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Reservoirs represent a major inland water resource in India, spanning millions of hectares, with substantial untapped potential for boosting fish production.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement I: Although India has a massive area of small, medium, and large reservoirs, their average fish productivity remains very low (less than \(20\text{--}50\text{ kg/ha/year}\)) compared to their potential. Thus, they are considered under-utilized for fish production.
Hence, Statement I is correct.
- Statement II: Implementing intensive cage culture (using floating cages) for carps and other species is highly feasible in these reservoirs. It provides a controlled, highly productive method of increasing yield without interfering with other reservoir uses.
Hence, Statement II is correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, corresponding to option (A).