Himalay Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau.
Farmers in Uttarakhand can now cultivate fish and vegetables simultaneously without needing large ponds or chemical fertilizers, thanks to aquaponics technology. This innovative method combines fish farming and vegetable cultivation, creating a sustainable, organic farming system.
The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Kashipur of Udham Singh Nagar district, has recently installed an aquaponics system on its campus. The setup includes two PVC tanks, each six meters long, where fish are raised. Simultaneously, vegetables like brinjal are grown using a hydroponic method, where plants are cultivated without soil. The system utilizes water enriched with nutrients from fish waste as a natural fertilizer for the vegetables.
SK Sharma from the Fisheries Science Center said, “Aquaponics technology allows farmers to perform organic farming alongside fish cultivation in just 200 square meters. This way, they can earn profits from both fish and vegetables.”
The fish waste, rich in ammonia, is treated to reduce its concentration before being used as fertilizer. This nutrient-rich water is then added to grow bags filled with vermicompost and coconut powder, providing an ideal environment for vegetable growth. This method not only promotes organic farming but also reduces the impact of pests and weeds.
Anil Chandra, a horticulture scientist at KVK, said, “This technology is so versatile that even people without land can adopt it on their rooftops. The aquaponics model offers a promising alternative for farmers and urban residents looking to practice sustainable farming.”
