Aquaponics: prospects and challenges in Nepal

Aquaponics is the integration of recirculating aquaculture and hydroponics in one production system. Nepal as an agricultural country has a higher prospect of this system. As the demand for fish and healthy vegetables and fruits are increasing in Nepalese market, aquaponics can be flourished as an alternative way for the optimum utilization of resources. With the increasing population, urbanization and industrialization, the land has been scarce for agriculture which leads to the higher scope of aquaponics to enhance the food security. Aquaponics is the sustainable, eco-friendly and intensive farming system that enhances the domestic food production or pre-urban and urban food security. Besides all the benefits, there are various challenges that limit the adoption of aquaponics system in Nepal. The major challenge is the high initial cost and requirement of adequate technical knowledge to maintain the balance of this system. The others are the lack of government policies and priority, lack of proper marketing for perishable products, load shedding etc. Hence, the government should give priority to the aquaponics system for the enhancement of food production in Nepal.