Guwahati, August 27: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the state government’s efforts to revive traditional water bodies through ‘Project SWIFT (Sustainable Wetland Initiative for Fisheries Transformation)’. This initiative, valued at ₹796.88 crore, aims to restore ‘beels’ (local wetlands/reservoirs), enhance fish production, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
In a post on the social media platform X, Sarma highlighted that the story of Assam’s wetlands is intertwined with the narrative of its people, underscoring the significance of these ecosystems for the environment and economy.
Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project will focus on revitalizing 71 beels across 23 districts in Assam. The initiative aims to rejuvenate approximately 4,000 hectares of water bodies.
Project SWIFT targets a fish production of 6,000 metric tons. Additionally, it anticipates the annual production of around 570 million fish fry to strengthen fish farming and enhance the productivity of the restored water bodies.
The initiative also seeks to empower communities reliant on fish farming and related activities. Under the project, the government will distribute 302 boats and fishing nets to beneficiaries. Furthermore, it plans to provide grants of ₹50,000 to 1,000 youths to promote livelihoods and entrepreneurial activities in the fish farming sector.
The project includes the establishment of 30 fish feed units and 100 fish processing units for self-help groups (SHGs), aimed at strengthening local value chains and creating additional income opportunities.
The state government has described this initiative as a means to harmonize environmental conservation with economic development, ensuring that Assam’s wetlands remain productive natural assets while supporting the communities that depend on them.
The revival of these beels is expected to improve fish farming productivity and promote the sustainable management of Assam’s aquatic resources.
Sarma stated that this initiative will aid in restoring these vital water bodies, generate sustainable livelihoods, and preserve one of Assam’s key natural assets.
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