Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s first-ever Aqua Tech Park in Sonapur, near Guwahati, marking a significant step toward technological innovation and sustainable growth in the fisheries sector. Developed by the Kolong Kopili NGO with vital support from NABARD, ICAR-CIFA, and other stakeholders, the park showcases cutting-edge aquaculture technologies, promising to revolutionize fish farming in the region and across the country.
The Aqua Tech Park is equipped with modern technologies like biofloc, aquaponics, recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS), and ornamental fish breeding units. These innovations are designed to increase productivity, ensure efficient water usage, and make fish farming more sustainable and profitable. Biofloc, for example, allows high-density fish farming in limited spaces, while aquaponics integrates fish and plant cultivation in a mutually beneficial system.
CM Sarma praised the initiative for aligning with the government’s vision of self-reliance and rural empowerment. He noted that the park will serve as a training and demonstration hub for fish farmers, students, and entrepreneurs, helping them adopt scientific practices to enhance yields and income. The park is expected to generate employment opportunities, particularly for rural youth and women, fostering inclusive development.
Highlighting Assam’s remarkable progress in the fisheries sector, the Chief Minister shared that the state has doubled its fish production between 2019 and 2024, becoming the fourth-largest fish producer in India. This growth is attributed to sustained investments in fisheries infrastructure, training programs, and access to quality fish seeds and feed.
To further support this upward trajectory, the Assam government has launched 10 fishery clusters across the state, with a total investment of ₹8 crore. These clusters aim to promote group-based aquaculture practices, enhance market linkages, and provide financial and technical support to fish farmers. This decentralized model is expected to improve supply chains and reduce the dependency on imports from other states.
In conclusion, the Aqua Tech Park in Sonapur is not just a regional achievement but a national milestone. It represents a shift toward tech-enabled, sustainable aquaculture that prioritizes environmental conservation, economic upliftment, and food security. With Assam leading the way, India’s fisheries sector is poised for a blue revolution driven by innovation, collaboration, and empowerment.
