Agartala, Sept 18:
In a bid to reduce the financial burden on fish farmers, the Department of Biotechnology, Government of Tripura, organized a workshop titled “Wolffia: An Alternative Fish Feed” at Pragna Bhavan on Thursday. The programme was inaugurated by Animesh Debbarma, Minister for Science, Technology and Environment.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Debbarma noted that the cost of conventional fish feed often exceeds ₹100 per kilogram, placing immense strain on farmers. He also pointed out that improper feed management further hampers aquaculture productivity. To address these concerns, the state’s Biotechnology Department, in collaboration with the College of Fisheries, Lembucherra, and with financial assistance from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, has initiated a project to cultivate Wolffia—a tiny aquatic plant—as a sustainable, organic and cost-effective fish feed.
Highlighting its potential, Debbarma said that Wolffia grows within just seven days, making it a fast-yielding option. Scientific trials conducted by the College of Fisheries have demonstrated that Wolffia-based feed enhances fish health, accelerates growth, and improves quality compared to artificial alternatives. Being organic in nature, it also reduces dependency on synthetic feed while significantly cutting production costs for farmers.
The workshop further explored strategies to promote Wolffia cultivation on a commercial scale and ensure its availability to fish farmers at subsidized rates. Minister Debbarma stressed that this forward-looking initiative could transform aquaculture practices in Tripura, boost fish production, and improve farmer incomes.
The event was attended by senior officials including the Secretary, Director, and Joint Director of the Biotechnology Department, the Dean of the College of Fisheries, and other dignitaries, reflecting the government’s commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for the fisheries sector.
