In a landmark move for India’s fisheries sector, Assam has launched the country’s first-ever Aqua Tech Park, a cutting-edge hub designed to revolutionize aquaculture through technology, training, and sustainability. This initiative aligns with national schemes like PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and SWIFT, aiming to double fish production and empower rural livelihoods.
What’s Inside the Park?
The Aqua Tech Park at Sonapur, Assam is not just a facility—it’s a living laboratory. Developed through a collaboration between Kolong-Kapili NGO, NABARD, ICAR-CIFA, Selco Foundation, and the Fisheries Department, the park showcases:
- Aquaponics Systems: Integrating fish and plant farming for resource efficiency
- Biofloc Technology: Enhancing fish health and growth with minimal water usage
- Ornamental Fish Breeding: Tapping into niche markets for aesthetic aquaculture
- Sustainable Feed Innovations: Including insect-based protein alternatives
- Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Closed-loop water reuse for eco-friendly farming
Empowering Farmers and Youth
The park doubles as a training and incubation center, offering:
- Skill development programs for fish farmers and agri-entrepreneurs
- Hands-on demos for students and researchers
- Grants and startup support for young graduates from institutions like Raha Fishery College
- Market linkage training to help farmers sell directly to buyers
Economic Impact & Future Plans
Assam, traditionally dependent on fish imports from states like Andhra Pradesh, is now charting a course toward self-reliance. With fish production hitting 4.99 lakh metric tonnes in 2023–24, the state ranks fourth nationally and aims to climb higher.
Key investments include:
- ₹800 crore for 10 fishery cluster development projects
- ₹250 crore JICA-aided schemes for infrastructure
- ₹100 crore transformation of Sombeel wetland
- ₹5 crore each for freshwater breed banks in Gaukhuti and Goalpara
- ₹26 crore for a modern fish market in Cachar
- ₹20 crore for an integrated landing center in Goalpara Sonari Gaon