Hemanta Sarma Launch India’s First Aqua Tech Park In Assam

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s first Aqua Tech Park in Sonapur, near Guwahati, Assam. The park will help fish farmers learn about new technologies like aquaponics, biofloc, and ornamental fish breeding. This initiative aims to boost fish production and increase farmers’ income in the state.

A Big Step in Fish Farming

The Aqua Tech Park has been set up by NGO Kolong Kopili with help from NABARD, ICAR-CIFA, Selco Foundation, and the Fishery Department. It showcases modern ways to raise fish using less water, faster methods, and new systems. These include aquaponics, which grows fish and plants together, and the biofloc system, which improves fish health and growth.

Speaking at the event, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said that although Assam has many rivers, it still depends on other states like Andhra Pradesh to meet its fish demand. The park, he added, will help change this situation.

Helping Farmers and Youth

Kolong Kopili, the NGO behind the project, for its work over the past 17 years in training farmers and youth in fish farming. The new Aqua Tech Park will be a boon for fish farmers and help create more income and job opportunities.

Also between 2019 and 2024, Assam doubled its fish production to 4.99 lakh metric tonnes, making it the fourth-largest fish-producing state in India.

Government Support and Future Plans

State government is working to bring together traditional farming with modern technology. In the current financial year, the state has launched 10 fishery cluster development projects worth ₹8 crore.

Also young people to take part in fish farming and help improve the rural economy. The park will also train people in creating market links, managing ornamental fish, and selling products directly to buyers.