The Assam government has launched a project to restore the state’s traditional waterbodies, strengthen the fisheries sector and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
GUWAHATI — The Assam government has launched a project to restore the state’s traditional waterbodies, strengthen the fisheries sector and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The INR 796.88-crore project, titled Sustainable Wetland and Integrated Fisheries Transformation (S.W.I.F.T), is supported by the Asian Development Bank and will rejuvenate 71 waterbodies across 23 districts, covering around 4,000 hectares of waterbodies, Environment and Forests Minister Jayanta Mallah Baruah said in a post on X.
The initiative aims to produce 6,000 metric tonnes of fish and around 570 million fish fry annually.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday said the story of Assam's 'beels' (waterbodies) is inseparable from the story of the people of the state.
''Project S.W.I.F.T is restoring these waterbodies, boosting fish production and creating sustainable livelihoods while preserving one of Assam's greatest natural assets," he said.
The project will also focus on strengthening the livelihoods of fishing communities. Around 302 boats and nets will be distributed, while 1,000 youths will receive grants of INR 50,000 each to support livelihood opportunities.
It will also establish 30 fish feed units and 100 fish processing units for self-help groups, strengthening the fisheries value chain and creating new income opportunities at the grassroots level.
"For generations, Assam’s beels have been closely connected with the lives, livelihoods and culture of local communities. Through Project S.W.I.F.T., these vital waterbodies are set to receive renewed attention -- combining ecological restoration with economic opportunities," Baruah said.