COF-CAU and NABARD conduct TNA programme in Tripura to develop fisheries and aquaculture training modules for FPOs and FPCs, aiming to boost skills, sustainability, productivity, and income generation through structured capacity-building initiatives and digital learning resources.
A structured effort to strengthen fisheries-based livelihoods in Tripura has taken shape through a collaborative initiative led by Central Agricultural University and supported by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). The one-day Training Need Assessment (TNA) programme was organized at the College of Fisheries under CAU, aiming to design targeted training modules for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs).
The programme is part of the NABARD-funded project titled “Development of Fisheries and Aquaculture-based Training Modules for FPOs/FPCs in Tripura for Growth, Sustainability, and Income Enhancement” (NABARD-FAST). It focused on identifying gaps in knowledge, skills, and practices among stakeholders to ensure that future training modules are practical, demand-driven, and aligned with field realities.
During the session, Amitava Ghosh, the Principal Investigator of the project, presented a comprehensive overview. He emphasized that multiple rounds of such assessments would be conducted to refine, validate, and finalize the training framework. He also highlighted a key outcome of the initiative—the creation of digital resources, including video lectures and structured training materials, to enhance accessibility and long-term capacity building.
The inaugural session began with a welcome address by A. D. Upadhyay, followed by a felicitation ceremony and the official release of the project logo. Several distinguished speakers addressed the gathering, including Saurabh Kumar Ojha from NABARD, Arun B. Patel, G. Dash, and Chief Guest Ratan K. Saha. Their remarks underscored the importance of structured, need-based training in strengthening fisheries and aquaculture enterprises.
Speakers highlighted that the project stands out for its integrated approach, covering not only fisheries production but also managerial, marketing, and technical competencies essential for the growth of FPOs and FPCs. Such a holistic framework is expected to empower stakeholders to operate more efficiently in competitive markets.
The programme witnessed participation from around 40 representatives of NABARD-supported FPCs, who engaged in technical sessions focusing on preparatory planning, analytical frameworks, and primary data collection using structured interview methods. The sessions were facilitated with the support of postgraduate and doctoral scholars from the Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics, and Statistics.
A feedback session coordinated by Arup Das marked the conclusion of the event, providing valuable insights for further refinement of the modules. The initiative is being guided by Anupam Mishra and supported by NABARD’s Tripura Regional Office under the leadership of Anil S. Kotmire.
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With its focus on skill development, productivity enhancement, and sustainable income generation, the programme is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the fisheries sector in Tripura while improving the livelihoods of local communities.
