Chief Minister Inaugurates India’s First Aqua Tech Park in Assam's Sonapur

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday inaugurated the country’s first-ever Aqua Tech Park at Bagibari, Sonapur, a pioneering initiative in the fisheries sector. The project has been supported by NABARD, the Department of Fisheries, and the SELCO Foundation.

In his address, the Chief Minister emphasized Assam's growing strength in fish production. He noted that the state has secured the 4th position nationally, with a total production capacity of 4.99 lakh metric tonnes of fish annually.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a major fisheries project has been launched in Son Beel of Sribhumi, further boosting the state's aquatic resource development.

The CM announced that with the assistance of ₹250 crore from JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), new projects in fish production will soon be undertaken in Assam.

To ensure the welfare of fish farmers, the Central Government has also extended the benefits of Group Insurance schemes to them.

Assam is considering constructing 10 fisheries clusters across the state at a cost of ₹8 crore. These will include fisheries infrastructure development and facilities to support sustainable aquaculture.

The Chief Minister also revealed plans to set up two Forced Water Fish Breed Banks at Garukhuti and Goalpara, each receiving a financial grant of ₹5 crore from the state government.

Further, a modern fish market will be constructed at Cachar’s Silcuri with an investment of ₹26 crore. Additionally, a grant of ₹20 crore has been sanctioned for the development of an Integrated Fish Landing Centre at Sonarigaon, Goalpara.

While acknowledging the state’s progress, the CM pointed out that Assam still depends on other states for fish feed production, and highlighted the need to become self-reliant in this sector as well.

Calling upon the youth to take initiative, he said their participation is key to building a self-reliant Assam. He also urged the Fisheries Minister to extend all possible assistance to Kolong and Kapili regions for aquaculture development.

Also Read: Akhil Gogoi Blames Govt for Eviction-Linked Suicide, Demands ₹1 Crore Compensation