| Machli Tech Private Limited, an aquaculture technology company based in India, has established an innovative low-cost Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) demonstration unit at the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB). The facility was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, highlighting its significance as a model for sustainable aquaculture development in the country. The demonstration unit has been designed around an airlift-driven water circulation principle, significantly reducing energy requirements compared to conventional pump-based RAS systems. By utilizing airlift technology for water movement, the system minimizes operational costs while maintaining efficient water circulation, aeration, and waste management. This approach makes the technology more accessible and economically viable for small, medium, and large-scale aquaculture farmers. Since commissioning, the system has delivered highly encouraging production results. Fish stocked at an average body weight (ABW) of approximately 25 grams achieved an average body weight of 120 grams within a period of one month. The culture performance was supported by a Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of approximately 1.0, indicating highly efficient feed utilization and effective environmental management within the culture system. The unit was operated at a stocking density of 30 kg/m³, demonstrating that the system can sustain intensive production while maintaining strong growth performance and feed efficiency. The technology integrates biological filtration, solids management, and optimized water circulation to maintain stable water quality conditions while reducing water consumption. Such systems are particularly relevant in regions where water resources are limited or where farmers seek to intensify production without expanding land and water use. One of the primary objectives of the demonstration project is to showcase a practical and affordable RAS model that can be adopted by a wide range of aquaculture stakeholders. The modular nature of the design allows customization according to farmer requirements, species cultured, and available infrastructure. The system can be scaled from small demonstration and nursery units to commercial grow-out facilities. Beyond production efficiency, the project contributes to broader goals of food security, climate resilience, and sustainable aquatic food systems. By enabling higher fish production with lower water use and improved resource efficiency, the technology supports responsible aquaculture intensification while reducing environmental impacts. The NFDB demonstration serves as a knowledge-sharing platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and policymakers. Visitors can observe the operation of the system, evaluate its performance, and understand the practical aspects of adopting recirculating aquaculture technologies. The positive initial results reinforce the potential of low-cost RAS solutions to increase fish production, improve farmer profitability, and strengthen sustainable aquatic food value chains. Machli Tech continues to monitor system performance and generate operational data that will further support the dissemination and adoption of affordable recirculating aquaculture technologies across India and other regions facing similar production challenges. Organization: Machli Tech Private Limited Contact Person: Ambadi Kannan M.S. Designation: Director Email: machlitech24@gmail.com Phone: +91 9037460868 https://www.linkedin.com/company/machli-tech-p-ltd/ |