The Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of the NABARD funded project titled “Fish Waste to Wealth” was successfully organized at the Faculty of Fisheries Science (FFSc), Raha on 21st January, 2026. The programme marked an important milestone towards promoting sustainable fisheries, circular economy, and rural development in the state.

The ceremony was graced by Shri Loken Das, Chief General Manager (CGM), NABARD, Dr. Pradip Ch. Bhuyan, Dean, FFSc, Raha, Dr. Probodh Borah, Director of Research, AVFU, Khanapara, Mr. Rajender Perna, District Development Manager (DDM), NABARD, Nagaon, along with faculty members and postgraduate students of FFSc, Raha.

The project is the first of its kind in Assam, aiming to convert fish waste collected from regional fish markets into three value-added usable fish by-products, thereby supporting environmental sustainability, waste management, and livelihood generation.

On the occasion, the Respected CGM, NABARD formally handed over the sanction letter for another NABARD funded project titled “Community Empowerment and Capacity Building of Fish Farmers through Creation of Model Village for Fish Seed Raising of Indigenous Fishes for Livelihood Promotion and Ex-situ Conservation”, submitted by the Department of Aquaculture.

Both initiatives reflect NABARD’s commitment towards strengthening fisheries-based livelihoods, promoting indigenous fish conservation, and fostering inclusive rural development.