Paddy cum fish integrated farming to sustainable aquatic food production: a climate-smart approach for low lying areas in Assam, India

Abstract

Assam is a state in northeastern India where paddy is a major crop and the staple food for almost all households. About 75% of the state population is directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture, while about 69% of the workforce in the state is engaged in agricultural activities. The traditional practice of raising fish in the paddy fields probably began with the beginning of paddy cultivation itself in the region because the waterlogged paddy fields create a natural habitat for fish. However, over the years, the practice has evolved with recognition of its multi-ecological benefits.