Chattisgarh has made significant strides in boosting India’s blue economy by revolutionising its fisheries sector through innovative initiatives like cage culture technology and repurposing closed stone quarries. These measures are driving rural employment, empowering women, and fostering self-reliance, transforming local economies.
The introduction of closed mine-based fish farming in Rajnandgaon district has significantly increased the production of fish species like Pangasius and Tilapia. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), two closed mines have been converted into thriving aquaculture hubs at a cost of $0.8 million, producing approximately three tons of fish per cage. These fish are now ready to be supplied nationwide, strengthening fish markets and contributing to the blue economy.
This initiative has created jobs for over 150 individuals, with women earning $70-90 monthly. The government’s subsidy of 40–60% under PMMSY has further enabled fish farmers to adopt the advanced cage culture method, which not only ensures a healthy environment for fish rearing but also reduces the risk of infections. The technique has proven to save time and costs while substantially increasing production levels.
In a mine in Joratarai, 162 unit cages were installed at a cost of $0.54 million, demonstrating the model’s scalability and effectiveness. This effort has turned disused water bodies into centres of economic activity, improving livelihoods and optimising water resource use.
In 2023, Chattisgarh reported a fish production of 652,000 metric tons, a substantial increase from 591,000 metric tons the previous year. This remarkable achievement highlights the state’s growing influence as a leader in sustainable aquaculture, inspiring similar initiatives across the India.
By leveraging innovative practices, Chattisgarh is setting an example of how targeted investments in aquaculture can drive economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social development in rural areas.
