The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed a loan agreement worth 3,580 million Japanese Yen (approximately ₹209 crores) for the Assam State Aquaculture Promotion and Livelihood Improvement Project. The initiative aims to enhance aquaculture production, develop sustainable fishery supply chains, and improve the livelihoods of fisheries stakeholders in Assam.
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. “The fisheries sector in India plays a vital role in food security, employment, and economic growth. This project will help Assam strengthen its fisheries industry through sustainable practices, better supply chains, and improved technical capacities,” said Mr. Takuro. The project will directly benefit 15,600 fish farmers and stakeholders while indirectly impacting over 10.84 million consumers. By 2031, aquaculture production is expected to rise from 2.9 tons/ha to 5.0 tons/ha, significantly boosting farmer incomes and fisheries infrastructure.
Guwahati, as a major commercial hub, stands to gain from the project’s improved supply chains and increased fish production. With enhanced infrastructure, including cold storage and efficient transportation, local markets will see better quality fish at stable prices, reducing dependency on imports from other states. The Directorate of Fisheries, Government of Assam, will oversee implementation, ensuring alignment with India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision.
