Triveni (Nawalparasi): In the buffer zone of Nawalpur (Bardaghat-Susta East), local residents grappling with increased incidents of wildlife intrusions have found an alternative source of livelihood—fish-keeping. Due to the frequent intrusion of wildlife into paddy fields, some farmers have transitioned from paddy farming to fish-keeping.

Devraj Subba, a farmer from Kawaswoti Municipality-7, explained that fish-keeping helps them avoid wildlife intrusion and provides a more lucrative income. Many households in the area along the forest border have constructed fish ponds. "Around 70 families here have ponds. With the rise in wildlife rampage, plantation of other crops in the area adjacent to the forest cannot be saved," Subba mentioned. Fish-keeping has proven to be an effective option, providing a good income compared to paddy farming.

Yam Bahadur Nepali, who was previously involved in paddy cultivation, later constructed a fish pond. He highlighted the increasing trend of fish pond construction as a livelihood option. The number of fish farmers is growing in Devchuli, Kawaswoti, and Madhyabindu municipalities of the district, with community forests supporting the construction of fish ponds in bordering areas.

Chairperson of the forest, Khil Bahadur Gurung, mentioned that the Model Buffer Zone Community Forest Users' Group supports those interested in fish-keeping. In the areas falling under the Model Buffer Zone Community Forest and Krishnasar Buffer Zone Community Forest, there are a total of 140 fish ponds. Gurung emphasized that fish-keeping has helped mitigate human-wildlife conflict in the area.

Kawasoti Municipality is actively supporting fish farming by providing grants and declaring specific wards as fish pocket areas. Shiva Narayan Kumal, Chief of Agriculture Development Section of Kawasoti Municipality, stated, "We have started providing necessary subsidies from the municipality as the fish farming area is increasing in the vicinity of the forest, and the farmers are also earning good income."