Shillong, Nov 20:The Northeast Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) on Wednesday inaugurated a pilot project on “aquaponic and hydroponic farming”, financially supported under its TOSS scheme.
The project is being implemented by Philip Lyngdoh, promoter of AngelGreen Agro.
NECTAR Director General Dr. Arun Kumar Sarma attended the inauguration at Laitkor Nongdaneng in the presence of senior officials, including Dr. Collin Renthlei, Technical Advisor, Rakesh Kr. Sarmah, Chief Coordinator, Simon Phukan, Senior Administrative Officer and Dhanjit Barman, Project Officer.
The Meghalaya State Horticulture Directorate was represented by Achin Kharmudai and Dipriya Lyngkhoi, Horticulture Development Officers (Marketing).
Aquaponic and hydroponic farming involves cultivating crops without soil, using nutrient-rich water circulated from fish tanks to provide essential nourishment to plants. Aquaponics integrates aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (soilless cultivation), forming a sustainable, closed-loop system known for its efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
This modern farming method enhances productivity—often doubling crop yields—while significantly reducing pest incidence due to the controlled environment in which it operates. The initiative demonstrates the potential of resource-efficient agriculture and is expected to encourage wider adoption of such technology-driven models across the region.
The promoter has already successfully harvested two batches of vegetables. The project has also generated employment for two local women, who are engaged in the daily operation and maintenance of the unit.
