Women farmers in rural Uttar Pradesh are embracing a new dimension in agriculture as they integrate fish farming into their traditional crop cultivation, thanks to the innovative initiative called ‘Aqua Schools’ by Transform Rural India (TRI).

The initiative, aimed at empowering women farmers, focuses on revolutionising fish farming practices, enhancing productivity, and promoting aquaculture within the region. TRI provides comprehensive capacity-building programs where women farmers receive ponds and technical support from facilitators, equipping them with essential skills in fisheries management.

Already benefiting nearly 100 women farmers, the project is set to expand to more villages soon. Services such as water testing, fish food supply, marketing support, and construction of artificial ponds for demonstration purposes are also part of the initiative.