Harnessing Decentralized Renewable Energy for Sustainable Aquaculture in Assam

The present article dedicates itself to discussion on the decentralized renewable energy (DRE) technologies. At present, the DRE is in its early phase, but holds immense potential from the perspective of sustainable development. How Kalong Kapili, an NGO, with the use of DRE technologies, has been producing constructive results, in contributing towards environmental, economic, and social development in a sustainable manner, specifically in aquaculture sector of the North-East India has been well arrested by the authors.

- Rashmi Bahuguna and Jyotish Talukdar

With the support of a well-developed ecosystem for DRE technologies, many replicable business models can be created to drive sustainable economic development across India.

Assam is situated in the eastern Himalayas and is blessed with rich and fertile soil. The state has a humid tropical climate with heavy rainfall enabling it to be a biodiversity hotspot. The two major rivers flowing through the state are Brahmaputra and Barak. The freshwater wetlands (around 3500) constitute 1.29% of the total geographical area of the state (Assam SAPCC 2015-20). These wetlands are home to a variety of fish. Fish is an essential component of Assam’s diet. Since more than 90% of the state's population consumes fish, there is a huge demand for it throughout the year. North-East is one of the major markets for Indian Major Carp (IMC) consists of Catla, Rohu and Mrigal, usually cultivated to meet domestic demand (World Bank, 2022).