India’s first Aqua Tech Park

CURRENT CONTEXT: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s first Aqua Tech Park at Bagibari, Sonapur (near Guwahati), marking a milestone in sustainable aquaculture development.

 ABOUT AQUA TECH PARK (SONAPUR):

• Objective: To introduce modern water-based farming technologies and increase fish production while boosting income for local communities.
• Institutions Involved: Jointly developed by Kolong-Kapili, NABARD, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, the state Fisheries Department, and Selco Foundation.
• Key Technologies Showcased: Aquaponics, biofloc systems, ornamental fish breeding, and modern freshwater aquaculture methods.
• Impact: Fish production in Assam doubled from 2019 to 2024 (now ~4.99 lakh MT), positioning the state as India’s fourth largest in fish output. Over 10 fishery clusters (₹8 crore) have been launched.