The Kalimpong district administration is promoting aquaponics farming as a practical solution to the region's water scarcity, keeping in mind rural livelihoods and nutritional needs. The initiative, led by the district fisheries department, is now gaining momentum with institutional support and a broader vision for integration across homestays, schools and farmlands.
Sumanta Kumar Biswas, the district fisheries officer of Kalimpong, said that as there was an urgency to conserve water in Kalimpong, aquaponics was a game-changer.
"With this method, we can save up to 80 percent of water. It is especially suitable for Kalimpong's conditions, where water is limited but there is immense potential for cultivating local vegetables and indigenous fish such as trout in high altitudes and Mahseer in low to mid-elevation areas," he said.
Biswas said that the integrated farming system allows farmers to grow crops like cabbage, spinach, bok choi and lettuce organically, while simultaneously rearing fish. "Only 100 square feet is required to begin aquaponics. This makes it ideal for small landholders and even the homestay owners," the official added.
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