Agartala's College Tilla facility, a government-owned fish production center, is spearheading scientific breeding of freshwater prawns to meet the high demand in Tripura's local market.

Overcoming the unsuitability of Tripura's natural environment for prawn cultivation, the facility creates artificial conditions for breeding by simulating maritime water, reported EastMojo.

The resulting prawn fry are nurtured until the juvenile stage, after which they are distributed to fish farmers for further rearing in ponds and lakes.

Freshwater giant prawns, although not scientifically classified as fish, play a significant role in Tripura's fish business. The mature prawns command prices ranging from Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,600 per kilogram in the markets. During festive seasons, such as Bijaya Dashami, Pohela Boishakh, and Jamai Sasti, prices surge even higher.

The facility sources special fodder from America to feed the prawn fry, contributing to the higher cost of production. Female berried prawns are collected from local fish farmers' ponds and subjected to a series of scientific processes at the hatchery, resulting in successful egg laying.

Hirak Sarkar, the fishery officer heading the facility, emphasized the training and distribution of juvenile prawns to progressive fish farmers, including beneficiaries of government schemes.

Precautions are advised during prawn culture, such as removing bottom layer fishes to avoid predation and ensuring sufficient food supply to prevent cannibalism among prawns.

The growing number of progressive fish farmers in Tripura indicates the expanding interest and success of prawn cultivation in the region.