The researchers at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture (RGCA), a division of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), have demonstrated the multifaceted potential of lands designated for aquaculture. Through innovative practices, these lands are now supporting not only fish farming but also the cultivation of agriculture and horticulture crops, marking a significant stride towards sustainable land use.
At the heart of this initiative lies the Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) project, situated in Manikonda village within Krishna district. Here, RGCA officials have pioneered the integration of horticulture and agriculture crops as inter-crops on the bunds between fish ponds.
By utilizing pond water and fish excreta, they have successfully nurtured a diverse array of crops, ranging from staple vegetables like tomatoes, chili, and brinjals to nutrient-rich options like spinach and various leafy greens. Notably, this cultivation is achieved without the use of pesticides, aligning with principles of sustainable agriculture.
This innovative approach challenges prevailing misconceptions that aquaculture lands are unfit for agriculture due to potential water pollution. Instead, MPEDA and RGCA are proving that these lands hold untapped potential for supporting a range of agricultural activities, thereby maximizing land utility and minimizing environmental impact.
Officials overseeing the project have praised MPEDA for its proactive efforts in promoting sustainable land use practices. By cultivating internal crops between aqua ponds, the project exemplifies a holistic approach to land management, effectively utilizing available resources to enhance productivity while minimizing ecological footprint.
Moving forward, MPEDA envisions broader adoption of these practices among aqua farmers, highlighting the potential for maximizing land efficiency and promoting environmental stewardship within the aquaculture sector. As the initiative gains momentum, it offers a promising blueprint for integrated land use practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental sustainability.