The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed an agreement to provide an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan of ₹209 crores for the Assam State Aquaculture Promotion and Livelihood Improvement Project. The initiative aims to enhance aquaculture production, strengthen fisheries infrastructure, and uplift the livelihoods of fish farmers in the state.
The agreement was signed between Ms. Manisha Sinha, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Takuro said, “The fisheries sector in India is crucial for food security, employment, and economic growth. This project will promote sustainable aquaculture, improve supply chains, and enhance technical capabilities, ensuring long-term economic benefits for Assam.” The project is expected to directly benefit around 15,600 people, including fish farmers and supply chain workers, while indirectly impacting over 10.84 million consumers. It aims to increase aquaculture production from 2.9 tons/ha to 5.0 tons/ha by 2031.
Guwahati, as the commercial hub of Assam, is expected to witness a significant boost in fish supply with the project’s implementation. The enhanced productivity and better supply chains will stabilize prices and increase the availability of quality fish, benefiting both consumers and traders. The city’s bustling fish markets are set to gain from improved cold storage and transportation infrastructure, reducing dependency on imports from other states. The Directorate of Fisheries, Government of Assam, will oversee the project’s execution, ensuring its long-term sustainability. The initiative aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision, focusing on sustainable fisheries and climate-resilient aquaculture.