India has taken a significant step toward sustainable aquaculture with the launch of its first Organic Fisheries Cluster in Soreng, Sikkim. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to organic practices, building on its leadership in chemical-free agriculture. Supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), the project aims to boost local economies, promote sustainable fish farming, and tap into global markets that prioritize eco-conscious products.
Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, inaugurated the cluster as part of broader efforts under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). In a concurrent event in Guwahati, Assam, 50 fisheries projects worth ₹50 crore were unveiled, benefiting Northeastern states except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. These projects include hatcheries, cold storage facilities, and integrated aquaparks designed to generate over 4,500 jobs.
The Organic Fisheries Cluster emphasizes chemical-free practices, environmental sustainability, and enhanced competitiveness for domestic and international markets. NABARD’s role extends to financial backing, infrastructure development, and forming fisheries-based farmer organizations. The initiative is expected to attract private investments and boost tourism, empowering local communities in the process.
The Northeast region, with its rich freshwater resources, has become a fisheries development hub. Investments through PMMSY and related schemes have enhanced production, growing inland fish output from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. This organic aquaculture initiative further cements India’s progress in sustainable fisheries and the blue economy.
