Next-Gen Aquaculture in India: Harnessing RAS and Bio-Floc Technology in the Blue Economy for the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat Vision

Key Highlights:

• India is the world’s second-largest fish producer and second-largest aquaculture producer, supporting nearly three crore fishers and fish farmers.
• Annual fish production more than doubled from 95.79 lakh tonnes in 2013-14 to 198 lakh tonnes in 2024-25.
• Seafood exports increased from ₹30,213 crore in 2013-14 to a record ₹73,890 crore in 2025-26.
• The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has approved 9,467 Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and 4,573 Biofloc units.
• These technologies are crucial for achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat visions in the blue economy.

Detailed Insights:

• The fisheries sector contributes significantly to food security, rural prosperity, and export earnings, with over ₹39,272 crore invested since 2015.
• Inland fisheries and aquaculture production saw a 147% increase, rising from 61.36 lakh tonnes to 151.60 lakh tonnes in the last decade.
• RAS and Biofloc technology enable intensive, resource-efficient fish farming in controlled environments, expanding aquaculture beyond traditional areas.
• These systems recycle up to 90-95% of water, promoting a circular and sustainable aquaculture economy.
• Technology adoption under PMMSY has been backed by ₹4,120 crore, modernizing production systems and accelerating advanced aquaculture practices.
• RAS and Biofloc enhance quality, traceability, and biosecurity, supporting India's high-value seafood exports.
• They facilitate specialized aquaculture, including premium species like trout in cold-water regions and export-oriented shrimp in saline waters.
• Future integration with digital monitoring, AI, drones, and renewable energy will further enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS): A technology that rears fish in controlled environments by treating and recirculating water to maintain optimal conditions.
• Biofloc technology: An aquaculture system that uses beneficial microorganisms to improve water quality and support fish growth, reducing the need for water exchange.