Agartala, Tripura — In a major step toward strengthening the fisheries sector, the foundation stone of a ₹42.4 crore Integrated Aqua Park was laid in Kailashahar, Tripura, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The event was inaugurated in Agartala by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also launched a Fish Festival showcasing Tripura’s aquatic diversity.
The initiative is part of a broader national strategy to increase fish production and self-sufficiency. Tripura aims to reach a target of 2 lakh tonnes against its current demand of 1.5 lakh tonnes. Minister Singh emphasized Tripura’s potential to become a “fish surplus state” and highlighted that four out of the eleven planned Integrated Aqua Parks in India are being set up in the Northeast.
Union Minister of State George Kurian underlined the critical role of fisheries in food security and Tripura’s economy, with nearly 98% of the population consuming fish. State Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das reaffirmed support through schemes like Matsya Sahayata Yojana, offering ₹6,000 annually to beneficiaries. Minister Tinku Roy encouraged youth participation in fisheries for sustainable livelihoods.
Union Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi detailed central investments of over ₹38,000 crore in the fisheries sector, including ₹319 crore for Tripura. He urged the adoption of modern aquaculture technologies like RAS, Biofloc, and drones, while encouraging species diversification and insurance coverage.
Tripura, with over 29 kg per capita fish consumption, has shown steady growth in fisheries. Under PMMSY, the state received ₹178 crore and completed 69 projects worth ₹258.61 crore in five years. The new Aqua Park at Kailashahar will serve as a hub for modern fish production and marketing, directly employing 100 people and providing indirect jobs for over 500.
The event also saw the distribution of Kisan Credit Cards and assets like hatcheries, kiosks, and refrigerated vehicles to beneficiaries. Top-performing startups and cooperative societies were felicitated for their contributions to the fisheries ecosystem.
With strong government backing, advanced technology, and an ambitious roadmap, Tripura’s Integrated Aqua Park is set to revolutionize the region’s aquaculture landscape.
