Digital Extension Services and Mobile Applications in Indian Freshwater Aquaculture: A Comprehensive Review of Productivity Enhancement and Youth Engagement
Keywords:
Freshwater Aquaculture, Digital Extension Services, Aquaentrepreneurship, Productivity EnhancementAbstract
Freshwater aquaculture has emerged as one of the fastest-growing agricultural subsectors in India, contributing significantly to food security, nutritional improvement, employment generation, women improvement and rural economic development. The rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), digital extension services, and mobile-based applications has transformed the dissemination of aquaculture-related information, enabling fish farmers and fisherman to access real-time advisory services, market intelligence, weather forecasts, disease diagnostics, input management guidance, and financial services. Digital platforms such as the National Fisheries Digital Platform, mKisan, Matsya Setu, Fish Farmer Producer Organization (FFPO) portals, and various state-level fisheries applications have improved farmers' decision-making capabilities, which results in enhanced productivity, reduced production risks, and increased profitability. Furthermore, the integration of mobile applications and digital tools has attracted rural youth to freshwater aquaculture by creating opportunities for aquaentrepreneurship, skill development, e-commerce, and technology-driven freshwater fish farming enterprises. The present study examines the role of digital extension services and mobile applications in Indian freshwater aquaculture, highlighting their contribution to productivity enhancement, knowledge dissemination, disease management, market access, and youth engagement.
The present study also focusses on major challenges, including digital literacy gaps, inadequate internet connectivity in rural areas, language barriers, and limited adoption among small-scale farmers. Finally, it proposes strategic interventions to strengthen digital ecosystems, promote inclusive technology adoption, and foster sustainable growth in India's freshwater aquaculture sector. The study concludes that digital extension services and mobile applications are becoming indispensable tools for improving freshwater aquaculture productivity and encouraging youth participation, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Indian freshwater aquaculture.
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