Guwahati: Assam took a significant step toward sustainable aquaculture and rural entrepreneurship on Saturday with the inauguration of its first-ever water technology park — ‘Aqua Tech Park’ — in Sonapur, on the outskirts of Guwahati.
The pioneering facility, developed by NGO Kolong Kopili in collaboration with NABARD, ICAR, the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), the state Fisheries Department, and Selco Foundation, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The Aqua Tech Park showcases a range of cutting-edge technologies in the fisheries sector, including aquaponics, the biofloc system, ornamental fish breeding, and modern fish production methods — aimed at revolutionising fish farming practices in the state.
Speaking at the launch event, Sarma said the initiative would serve as a knowledge hub for local fish farmers, equipping them with the tools to enhance productivity, increase income, and reduce Assam’s dependence on fish imports from states like Andhra Pradesh.
“Despite being a land of rivers, Assam continues to rely heavily on outside supply to meet local fish demand. This park is a step towards self-sufficiency,” Sarma said.
He praised Kolong Kopili for its sustained contribution over the past 17 years in promoting modern fish farming techniques and inspiring a new generation of agri-entrepreneurs.
“Through hands-on training and outreach, Kolong Kopili has positively impacted rural livelihoods across Assam,” he noted.
The chief minister expressed confidence that the Aqua Tech Park would become a vital resource for farmers and fisheries stakeholders, unlocking new opportunities in aquaculture and strengthening Assam’s rural economy.
Sarma highlighted the state’s recent progress in the sector, noting that fish production had doubled between 2019 and 2024 — reaching 4.99 lakh metric tonnes — making Assam the fourth-largest fish-producing state in India.
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Emphasising the fusion of traditional agriculture with modern technology, Sarma said that the state government has launched 10 fishery cluster development projects in the current fiscal year, with a total outlay of Rs. 8 crore.
He also urged the youth to actively participate in the fisheries sector, calling it a promising avenue for sustainable livelihoods and economic growth.
Kolong Kopili, the NGO behind the Aqua Tech Park, is known for its work in integrated fish farming, horticulture, health awareness, and building market linkages for rural farmers and communities.
