The Northeastern region's rich water resources are well-suited for fish farming and other aquaculture-related activities, and the aquaculture of Tripura plays a key role in the economy, culture and food security. Advanced technologies have been used to boost productivity and sustainability - from enhancing water quality and fish yield with Biofloc tech in small spaces to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) for efficient water reuse, including solar-powered aerators for improving pond oxygen levels. Many innovations have elevated aquaculture practices in the state.
Debtanu Barman, the initiator of Barman Aqua Clinics Private Limited, is working on enhancing fish farming systems in Tripura with his creation, 'Pond Talk.' This ground-breaking, solar-powered pond aerator combines immediate water filtration and an auto-feeder, providing a complete solution for fish farmers in the area.
The project has added noteworthy impetus and has secured a Rs. 20 lakh grant from the Technology Innovation and Development Foundation (IITGTIDF). Titled “Solar Powered Pond Aerator with Instant Water Filtration and Auto Feeder (POND TALK),” the proposal received formal approval from IIT Guwahati.
“We received this grant under Barman Aqua Clinics Private Limited, a sister concern of Aqua Doctor Solutions,” Barman stated during an exclusive interview with Business North East (BNE).
“Barman Aqua Clinics is co-led by Debasmita Maity and myself. Our company, established in 2023, focuses on research and development in aquaculture and fisheries across the Northeastern states,” he explained.
Headquartered in Tripura, Barman Aqua Clinics Private Limited offers an extensive range of solutions for the fisheries and aquaculture sector, including consultancy, training, fintech services and market linkages.
A native of Melaghar in Sepahijala district, Debtanu Barman holds a bachelor's degree in Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) from the Central Agricultural University in Agartala and a master's in Aquaculture from Belgium's Ghent University. With over 14 years of knowledge in the aqua segment, he has collaborated with global NGOs, methodical laboratories and government agencies.
Barman Aqua Clinics has completed over 100 consultancy projects, connected with over 30,000 fish farmers and trained upwards of 5,000 individuals. The company has received over 200 national and international awards and recognitions.
Debtanu Barman has also played a pivotal role in advising organizations on creating women-led Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and promoting financial inclusion. His collaborations include esteemed institutions such as the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), Gramin Vikas Trust, Grand Thornton Bharat LLP, and FishFed.
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Meanwhile, solar energy is revolutionizing the fisheries sector by introducing sustainable solutions to longstanding challenges globally. In India, solar-powered cold storage units, drying technology, and aerators have improved efficiency in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Odisha. Internationally, innovations such as solar-powered fishing boats in Kerala, floating solar panels in Japan, and solar-powered ice-making machines in Southeast Asia are advancing sustainability in the aquaculture industry.
With 'Pond Talk,' Barman is driving innovation and positioning Tripura as a leader in sustainable fisheries practices. This initiative promises to reduce costs, enhance productivity, and promote eco-friendly aquaculture solutions for a brighter and more sustainable future.
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