Government of Assam has inaugurated India’s first Aqua Tech Park at Bagibari, Sonapur to boost fish production and modernize the fisheries sector. This initiative, supported by multiple institutions including NABARD, ICAR-CIFA, and Selco Foundation, is set to create employment, promote modern aquaculture practices like aquaponics and biofloc, and reduce Assam’s dependency on other states for fish supply.
India’s First Aqua Tech Park
Location:
- Bagibari, Sonapur, Assam.
Developed By: Kollong-Kopili NGO in collaboration with:
- NABARD
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA)
- State Fishery Department
- Selco Foundation
Core Objectives:
- Promote fish production and self-reliance.
- Increase income and employment among farmers and rural youth.
- Train stakeholders in modern fish farming techniques.
Modern Technologies Showcased:
- Aquaponics- System of cultivating fish & plants together in a closed system.
- Biofloc – Water treatment technique to improve fish health and productivity. Reuses waste by converting organic matter into feed for fish, enhancing sustainability.
- Ornamental fish breeding, modern hatchery systems, and direct market linkages.
Benefits to Farmers & Youth
Skill Development:
- Trainings in market linkage, direct selling, and ornamental fish management.
- 17 years of training experience by Kollong-Kopili NGO.
Employment Generation:
- Aqua Tech Park to serve as a hub for training, innovation, and entrepreneurship in fisheries.
Economic Empowerment:
- Promotes self-employment in aquaculture.
- Reduces Assam’s reliance on Andhra Pradesh and other states for fish supply.
Significance
- Pioneers a model for fisheries innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Reduces Assam’s dependency on other states (e.g., Andhra Pradesh) for fish.
- Empowers local communities with skills, self-employment, and market access.
- Supports India’s goal to boost exports and achieve Blue Economy targets.
Achievements of Assam in Agriculture & Fisheries:
| Sector | Key Milestones |
| Fish Production | Doubled to 4.99 lakh metric tonnes between 2019–2024.4th largest fish producing state in India |
| Red Rice Export | 267 MT of Red Rice exported from Majuli to Middle East & EU.Majuli’s organic red bao paddy debuts globally |
| Paddy Procurement | Record 7 lakh MT procured during Kharif Marketing Season 2024–25. |
| Investment Projects | ₹800 crore ADB project: Sustainable Wetland & Integrated Fisheries.₹250 crore JICA-aided projects for fisheries development. |
India’s Fisheries Sector
National Statistics (2023–24):
- Production: 184 lakh tonnes (up from 95.7 lakh tonnes in 2013–14).
- Share in global output: ~8%.
- 2nd largest fish producing country globally.
- Inland fisheries contribute ~75% of total output.
Leading Fish Producing States:
- Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, and Assam.
India’s Global Rank:
- India ranks 2nd in aquaculture, 1st in shrimp, 3rd in capture fisheries.
Challenges in Fisheries Sector
Environmental:
- Plastic and water pollution, carbon emissions, habitat degradation.
Economic:
- Small-scale, unorganized sector, weak infrastructure, high costs.
Other Issues:
- Climate change, IUU fishing (Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated).
Government Initiatives for Fisheries
| Scheme/Initiative | Description |
| Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana | Launched in 2020 with ₹20,050 crore outlay (2020–2025). |
| Focus: Aquaculture productivity, integrated aqua parks, fisheries infra. | |
| PM Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana | Sub-scheme for financial and technological interventions. |
| Blue Revolution Scheme | Comprehensive approach for marine + inland fisheries development. |
| FIDF | Fisheries & Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund – infra financing. |
| National Marine Fisheries Policy 2017 | Guides marine resource conservation and sustainable fishing practices. |
Budget 2025–26 Focus:
- Reducing customs duties on equipment.
- Promoting marine fisheries development and financial inclusion.
Total Investment Since 2015:
- ₹38,572 crore, resulting in doubling of fish production.