Union Minister Lays Foundation Stone for ₹42.4 Crore Integrated Aquapark in Tripura Under PMMSY

On May 18, 2025, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) laid the foundation stone for an Integrated Aquapark in Kailashahar, Tripura, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Valued at ₹42.4 crores, this initiative aims to bolster Tripura’s fisheries sector through modern technology, integrated farming, and innovation. The event also featured a Fish Festival showcasing the state’s rich aquatic biodiversity. The move is part of a broader effort to transform Tripura into a “fish surplus state” with significant export potential.

Why in News?

The foundation stone laying marks a major step forward for Tripura’s fisheries sector, a crucial area for economic development in the Northeast. With the fisheries sector growing faster than other agriculture allied sectors nationally, this project under PMMSY highlights the government’s focus on modernizing fisheries, promoting sustainability, and supporting local fish farmers through training and infrastructure.

Aim and Objectives

• To develop an Integrated Aquapark in Kailashahar, Tripura worth ₹42.4 crores under PMMSY.
• To boost fish production and reduce the supply-demand gap in Tripura by leveraging modern aquaculture technologies.
• To transform Tripura into a “fish surplus state” capable of exporting fish beyond its current requirement of 1.5 lakh tonnes, targeting a production of 2 lakh tonnes.
• To promote sustainable and innovative aquaculture, including organic fish farming modeled after Sikkim’s Organic Fish Cluster.
• To provide institutional training and capacity building to fish farmers through government support programs like Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) and National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).

Background

• PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) is a flagship government scheme aimed at doubling fish production and supporting fish farmers with infrastructure, technology, and training.
• The fisheries sector has shown a robust growth rate of 9.08% since 2014-15, making it the fastest-growing among agriculture and allied sectors in India.
• Currently, 11 Integrated Aquaparks are under development nationwide, with 4 located in the Northeast region, reflecting the strategic importance of this area for fisheries development.

Highlights of the Event

• The foundation stone was laid by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh with the presence of Ministers from Tripura and Union Ministries.
• A Fish Festival was inaugurated, emphasizing Tripura’s diverse fish species and cultural heritage.
• The Union Minister stressed the need for infrastructure improvement, ornamental fisheries development, scampi production boost, easier market access, and innovation in the sector.
• Certificates and sanction orders were distributed to beneficiaries as part of capacity-building initiatives.

Significance

• This project will not only enhance fish production but also promote economic growth and employment in Tripura.
• It aims to develop an export-oriented fisheries economy in the state, which can serve as a model for other Northeastern states.
• The focus on organic fish farming aligns with sustainable development goals and environmental conservation.
• Institutional training and government support schemes will empower fish farmers, ensuring technology adoption and improved livelihoods.