High-Tech Innovations in India's Inland Fisheries

Introduction

India’s inland fisheries industry is crucial to provide food and nutrition security, generate rural employment and enhance aquaculture. This segment largely dominated by inland fisheries in fresh water, reservoirs, rivers etc., which constitute more than 70% of the fish production in the country. And it sustains the livelihoods of thousands of small farmers, fishers and self-help groups. Aquaculture- and polyculture-based systems will become more common as the industry moves further from open water capture fisheries.

Inspiring measures like the PMMSY, the Blue Revolution Mission and assistance from organizations such as NFDB, RKVY and FIDF, drive India’s domestic fisheries industry. Encouraging the building of fishponds, ensuring access to seeds and food and providing training in aquaculture methods are the goals of these initiatives. And the growth of the non-coastal aquaculture industries as well as sustainability is also being fueled by rising knowledge of nutrition, of protein sources, and of rural livelihoods.

Inclusion of inland aquaculture in rural food systems and mid-day meal schemes is growing demand. Other opportunities exist in cold chain infrastructure, clean landing centers, and direct-to-consumer marketing. Future development depends on improved seed quality, proper management of water resources, and the improvement in market access, particularly for small-scale inland farmers, promoting sustainable and inclusive sector development.

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Scaling Aquaculture for Inclusive Growth in India’s Inland Fisheries Sector

The inland fisheries of India are a mix that comprises both aquaculture and capture methods oriented to ambits from one ecological zone to another, depending on the actual requirement or demand in the local community. As per industry reports, India’s inland fisheries and aquaculture production surged to 131.13 lakh tons in FY 2022-23. Key systems are carp polyculture in tanks and ponds, cage and pen culture, non-farming integrations with farming, integrated fish farming, and high-tech options, such as biofloc and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Continued training and support from research institutions and government schemes further enhance productivity and sustainability.

Top producing states of inland fisheries are West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Assam. These regions are home to good freshwater resources, government support, and well-organized cooperatives. Inland fisheries provide substantial rural livelihoods, especially for women and disadvantaged groups through hatcheries, pond-based aquaculture, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs), SHGs, and tribal cooperatives are increasingly leveraging mobile advisory platforms and market linkages in order to increase incomes and minimizing post-harvest losses.

India's inland fisheries are projected to continue gradual growth until 2034, led by the development of scientifically managed fish farm ponds and emergence of digital platforms for fish advice and procurement of inputs. Eco-restoration of reservoirs and tanks is rejuvenating community fisheries, and climate-resilient finfish and low-cost feeds are being promoted.

Table of Contents

1. India Inland Fisheries Market Overview and Importance
2. Policy Support: PMMSY, NFDB, Blue Revolution & RKVY
3. Aquaculture Systems: Carp Polyculture, Cage & Pen Culture
4. High-Tech Innovations: Biofloc, RAS, and Integrated Farming
5. Key Inland Fish Species and Seed Management Practices
6. Top Producing States and Regional Freshwater Trends
7. Livelihood Impact: SHGs, FFPOs, and Tribal Cooperatives
8. Sustainability Measures and Eco-Restoration Efforts
9. Emerging Market Linkages, Digital Platforms, and Advisory
10. Future Outlook: Opportunities and Sector Forecast to 2026

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