Centre approves Rs 43 Cr for Aqua Park in Tripura, expected to produce 5,000 MT of fish

In a significant step towards enhancing fish production, the Tripura government has proposed a Rs 100 crore project to establish an Aqua Park in the state. 

As part of this initiative, the Union Fisheries Ministry has approved Rs 43 crore for the project, which is expected to produce 5,000 metric tonnes of fish annually.

Tripura Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das provided this update while addressing the state assembly during a session based on an urgent public interest notice raised by BJP MLA Swapna Das Pal. He stated that the integrated Aqua Park will be developed over 500 hectares in the Bisnagar Gram Panchayat of Unakoti district. The state government has submitted a proposal to the Centre for the remaining funds required for the project's completion.

The minister highlighted that in the 2024-25 financial year, the Fisheries Department has already rehabilitated 589.66 hectares of unused water bodies across Tripura and initiated fish farming in these areas. He emphasized the importance of fisheries as a source of food, nutrition, employment, and economic growth, particularly in rural regions.

"Fish is an affordable and healthy source of animal protein, making it a vital component in addressing hunger and malnutrition. The fisheries sector holds immense potential for economic development and income generation, which is why increased investment in this sector is crucial," Minister Das stated.

According to a recent study, Tripura has the highest fish consumption rate in the country, with 99 percent of its population consuming fish. The state's per capita fish consumption stands at 27.83 kg per year.

"Given the high demand for fish in Tripura, the state's annual requirement stands at 1,17,287.46 metric tonnes, whereas the current production is only 85,805.68 metric tonnes. This results in a deficit of 31,481.78 metric tonnes, which is met by importing fish from other states and neighboring countries," the minister explained.

To address this shortfall, the Fisheries Department has launched various initiatives under the Chief Minister’s Fisheries Development Scheme. These include the renovation of ponds and other water bodies, soil testing, and providing fish farmers with essential resources and technical support.