Is Tripura Set to Boost Fish Production with New Integrated Aqua Park?

Synopsis
Tripura is on the brink of a fish production revolution with the launch of the Integrated Aqua Park. This initiative not only promises to meet the state's fish consumption needs but also aims for self-sufficiency in the region. Explore how this project could transform local fisheries and boost the economy!
Key Takeaways
- Foundation stone laid for the Integrated Aqua Park in Tripura.
- 11 Integrated Aqua Parks to be established across India.
- Tripura has a significant fish production potential.
- Project aims to reduce fish supply deficit.
- This initiative will enhance local economies and food security.
Agartala, May 18 (NationPress) In a major initiative aimed at enhancing fish production and achieving self-sufficiency in fish supply, the Central government has embarked on establishing 11 Integrated Aqua Parks throughout the nation.
On Sunday, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy, officially launched the construction of the Integrated Aqua Park in the capital of Tripura.
During the groundbreaking ceremony at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala, he took the opportunity to explore various fish stalls.
Accompanying him were Minister of State S.P. Singh Baghel, as well as Tripura’s Fisheries and ARD Minister Sudhangshu Das, along with Social Welfare Minister Tinku Roy.
In a press briefing following the event, the Union Minister elaborated on the Centre’s significant initiative to bolster fish production in coastal states, emphasizing Tripura's vast potential in this sector.
“We have sanctioned a total of 11 Integrated Aqua Parks nationwide. Among these, four will be located in the Northeast—specifically in Tripura, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland—to enhance regional self-sufficiency in fish production,” he stated.
He assured that the Centre would provide comprehensive support to the Tripura government in achieving the targeted goals.
Sudhangshu Das expressed his enthusiasm about the project, highlighting that the Integrated Aqua Park will address the current shortfall in fish supply and consumption within the state.
“Over 95% of our residents consume fish. Each year, Tripura requires approximately 117,000 metric tonnes of fish, while local production stands at around 85,000 metric tonnes, resulting in an annual deficit of 31,000 metric tonnes. This gap is currently filled by imports from nearby coastal states such as West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha,” he explained.
He added that this initiative will significantly contribute to fulfilling the state's fish harvesting requirements.