“I come from a fisherman family in Andhra Pradesh, and fishing has always been part of our lives. Growing up, I was used to visiting places around Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam and Kakinada to fish along with my family members. Today, even while studying in Hyderabad, I continue to follow the same tradition.

My brothers and I travel to different places for fishing, including Kondapochamma Sagar Reservoir, Pocharam dam and other lakes in Telangana. We have special permission from the local authorities, and we come once a week. We sell the fish we catch at the weekly market, which helps us earn a livelihood while continuing our studies.

Whenever I visit these places, I feel Telangana has so much potential for tourism. Kondapochamma Sagar is beautiful, and I believe more people would love to visit if there were better facilities and opportunities to enjoy the surroundings.

At present, tourist entry is restricted because of the water levels, but I hope the government will take steps to promote places like this when conditions allow.

People could come here during weekends, enjoy the lake and have fresh fish prepared locally. It would give visitors a different experience and also help families like ours earn a living. There are many beautiful lakes in Telangana, including Pocharam and Markook, and I feel they deserve more attention.

Being from a fishing community, we have learnt to understand the water and face different challenges. Fishing has taught me patience, courage and the importance of working hard. But I also know that I cannot depend on fishing alone for my future.

I want to study well, become successful and provide a better life for my family. One of my biggest dreams is to buy a house in Hyderabad. I know it is difficult with the way property prices are increasing, but I still want to work towards it. Life will always have challenges, and I believe what matters is how we face them. I want to make the most of every opportunity, support my family and build a future that makes them proud.”

• Mahendra