Tripura Minister Animesh Debbarma urged fish farmers to adopt Wolffia globosa, a natural organic fish feed developed by biotechnology researchers. Highlighting its eco-friendly benefits, he emphasized training, hygiene, and scientific farming methods at a workshop with experts, farmers, and students.
Minister for Science, Technology, and Environment, Animesh Debbarma, on Thursday called upon fish farmers across Tripura to adopt Wolffia globosa, a naturally produced organic fish feed, as part of efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
The minister was addressing participants at a one-day workshop on “Wolffia globosa as an Alternative Fish Feed,” jointly organized by the Department of Science, Technology and Environment and the College of Fisheries, Lembuchhara.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Debbarma said that Wolffia globosa, developed by researchers from the Biotechnology Department, has the potential to serve as a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and highly nutritious fish feed. He emphasized that such scientific innovations should not remain confined to workshops but must reach the grassroots level.
“Providing hands-on training to farmers and fish cultivators is of utmost importance. Without proper demonstration and field-level adoption, the benefits of Wolffia will remain limited,” the minister said.
Emphasis on Clean and Hygienic Fish Farming
Debbarma also underscored the need for maintaining hygienic conditions in ponds and other fish farming areas. He urged officials of the Fisheries Department to encourage farmers to adopt scientific methods of cultivation and to motivate them to cultivate Wolffia widely.
“It is the duty of officials to build a scientific temper among fish farmers. They should ensure that farmers understand Wolffia’s potential not just for sustainable aquaculture but also as a reliable source of income,” he stated.
During an interaction with participating farmers, the minister explained how Wolffia-based feed can help reduce dependency on costly artificial feed and ensure healthier fish production in the state.
Expert Insights and Presentations
The workshop featured several technical sessions and expert presentations.
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Professor A. B. Patel of the College of Fisheries, Lembuchhara, gave an in-depth talk on Wolffia cultivation techniques.
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Mahendra Singh, Director of the Biotechnology Department, delivered the welcome address, while Anjan Sengupta, Joint Director, proposed the vote of thanks.
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Dashu Chakma, Senior Scientific Officer, presented a detailed report highlighting the significant role of Wolffia globosa in sustainable fish production.
Further discussions broadened the scope of the workshop:
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Dr. Papri Das Sengupta, acting principal of Ramthakur College, explained the importance of cultivating fish species that feed on mosquito larvae to help curb mosquito breeding.
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Dr. Bhagvi Priyadarshini, Assistant Professor at the College of Fisheries, spoke about the potential for developing fish feed products from Wolffia.
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Dr. Nandini Gupta, Associate Professor at Bir Bikram Mahavidyalaya, led a session on vermitechnology and its application in aquaculture.
Participation from Farmers and Students
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from fish farmers hailing from different parts of West Tripura district. In addition, biotechnology students from several leading institutions, including Holy Cross College, Ramthakur College, Bir Bikram Memorial College, and the College of Fisheries, actively took part in the sessions.
Farmers attending the workshop expressed optimism about Wolffia’s potential, noting that organic feed alternatives could significantly reduce input costs while ensuring a healthier yield. Several participants highlighted that if government departments provide continued support, Wolffia could become a game-changer for Tripura’s aquaculture sector.
Wolffia Globosa: A Promising Alternative
Known as one of the smallest flowering plants, Wolffia globosa is rich in protein and nutrients, making it an ideal natural feed for fish. Unlike synthetic feed, Wolffia is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and can be cultivated in large quantities with minimal input. Researchers believe its adoption could transform aquaculture practices in the state.
Government Push for Innovation in Aquaculture
The minister’s call aligns with the broader government initiative to boost rural livelihoods by encouraging innovative, eco-friendly, and cost-effective practices in fisheries and agriculture. By urging farmers to adopt Wolffia, Debbarma has reinforced the importance of combining scientific research with practical training and grassroots implementation.
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The workshop concluded with a pledge from officials and experts to organize more field-level training programs to ensure that Wolffia cultivation and utilization as organic fish feed spreads across the state.
