On May 18, 2025, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, laid the foundation stone for an Integrated Aquapark worth Rs 42.4 crore in Kailashahar, Tripura, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The event in Agartala also featured the inauguration of a Fish Festival and an exhibition showcasing Tripura’s rich fish culture. Joined by Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, and Tripura Ministers Shri Sudhangshu Das and Shri Tinku Roy, the event highlighted Tripura’s potential to become a fish surplus state.
Boosting Fisheries for Economic Growth
Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the fisheries sector’s 9.08% growth rate since 2014-15, the highest among agri-allied sectors in India. He urged stakeholders to leverage modern technology and integrated farming to meet Tripura’s fish demand of 1.5 lakh tonnes and achieve a production target of 2 lakh tonnes. The minister announced plans to develop Tripura as an Organic Fish Cluster, similar to Sikkim, and emphasized timely completion of the Integrated Aquapark to enhance fish production and marketing infrastructure.
Empowering Fishers Through Schemes
The Union Minister encouraged fishers to utilize schemes like the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) and PMMSY for training and capacity building through the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB). He addressed the need to boost scampi production, develop ornamental fisheries, and improve market access and sustainability. Certificates and sanction orders were distributed to beneficiaries during the event, recognizing their contributions to the sector.
State and Central Collaboration
Shri George Kurian highlighted that 98% of Tripura’s population consumes fish, underscoring the sector’s role in food security. Shri Sudhangshu Das noted that the Matsya Sahayata Yojana provides Rs 6,000 annually to fishers, encouraging youth to take up fisheries. Shri Tinku Roy stressed collaborative efforts to uplift fishers’ livelihoods. Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Union Secretary, detailed Rs 38,000 crore in investments under PMMSY, FIDF, and PMMKSSY, with Rs 2,114 crore for the Northeast, including Rs 319 crore for Tripura.
Current Fisheries Landscape in Tripura
Tripura’s per capita fish consumption exceeds 29 kg annually. Under PMMSY, the state has received Rs 178 crore, with 69 projects worth Rs 258.61 crore implemented over five years. The Integrated Aquapark is expected to generate 100 direct jobs and 500 indirect jobs, strengthening the aquaculture ecosystem. Dr. Likhi advocated for Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), Biofloc, and drone-based applications, alongside promoting indigenous species like Pabda and Singhi.
| Project/Initiative | Investment (Rs Crore) | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Aquapark | 42.4 | Enhances fish production and marketing |
| PMMSY Projects | 178 | Boosts fisheries infrastructure |
| Northeast Fisheries Projects | 2,114 | Supports regional development |
Recognizing Beneficiaries and Startups
Key Highlights of the Event
- Foundation stone laid for Rs 42.4 crore Integrated Aquapark on May 18, 2025, in Kailashahar.
- Tripura targeted to become a fish surplus state with 2 lakh tonnes production.
- Rs 319 crore allocated for Tripura under PMMSY and other schemes.
- Recognized beneficiaries, startups, and cooperatives for contributions to fisheries.
- Promoted organic fish cluster development and modern technologies like RAS and Biofloc.