Integrated Aquaculture: Road ahead for sustainable rural development in Meghalaya

Abstract

Abstract: The unitary concept of producing crop is gradually changing to integrated system, with a view to integrate different farming components viz. fishery, live stock, horticulture to produce fish, eggs, meat and vegetables from the same farm. The major benefit of integrated system is utilization of resources effectively and recycling of waste within the farm and thus, ultimately maintaining ecological balance. Meghalaya a state located in the North Eastern India, characterized by hills and plateaus interspersed with valley lands in the foot hills. People of Meghalaya are predominantly dependent on agriculture and allied sector. Fish a very valuable source of protein, comprise an important part of the diet of local tribal people. As local wild fish supplies from natural water bodies diminishing and relatively limited aquaculture, fish production in the state is insufficient to satisfy the present demand of fish in Meghalaya. The present fish production in the state is 4.77 thousand tonnes against the demand estimated 30 thousand tonnes per annum. Massive demand of the fish is providing a market opportunity for fish producers in the state. The present study categorized integrated aquaculture as an important and promising enterprise for rural farming households of Meghalaya to maximize their farm income, providing nutritional security and as a whole to achieve sustainable development in the rural sector. Key words: Integrated aquaculture, sustainable development, hilly area