Integrated Fish-Crop Farming: A Climate-Smart Pathway for Sustainable Indian Agriculture
Integrated fish–crop farming has emerged as a promising approach for advancing climate-smart
and sustainable agriculture in India. By integrating aquaculture with crop production, these
systems improve resource use efficiency, nutrient recycling, farm diversification, and
livelihood resilience. This article examines integrated fish–crop farming within the Indian
agricultural context, highlighting its role in enhancing productivity, ecological sustainability,
and climate adaptation. Major Indian models including rice–fish farming, pond-based
integrated systems, and emerging aquaponic approaches are discussed, along with regional
experiences from Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal. The article also emphasizes the importance
of agricultural extension, institutional support, and policy initiatives in promoting adoption and
scaling of integrated systems. Although challenges related to technical knowledge,
infrastructure, and management remain, integrated fish–crop farming offers significant
potential for supporting resilient, diversified, and environmentally sustainable agricultural
development in India.