Wed Oct 15 16:23:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

The Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS), an Indian NGO, has been recognized by the FAO for its Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal. SAIME promotes a balanced approach to aquaculture by integrating mangrove conservation into shrimp farming practices. This has led to increased farmer profits, reduced production costs, and a more climate-resilient ecosystem. The model utilizes mangrove litter as fodder and emphasizes community participation, offering a sustainable alternative to destructive shrimp farming methods.

**News Article:**

**Indian NGO Honored by FAO for Sustainable Sundarbans Aquaculture**

*Rome, Italy – October 15, 2025* – The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has recognized the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS), an Indian non-governmental organization, for its groundbreaking Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal. The award was presented during FAO’s 80th Anniversary Celebrations and the World Food Forum held in Rome today.

The SAIME initiative promotes a unique approach to aquaculture that integrates mangrove conservation with shrimp farming. By ensuring 5%-30% mangrove coverage in aquaculture ponds and utilizing mangrove litter as fodder, the model has demonstrated significant benefits for both the environment and local communities.

According to NEWS, the implementation of SAIME across nearly 30 hectares of farmland has led to a doubling of annual net profits for participating farmers due to significant reductions in production costs. This success is attributed to the community-based approach and the adoption of good aquaculture practices that balance mangrove conservation and aquaculture-based livelihoods in the face of rising sea levels.

“This climate-adaptive model enhances coastal resilience, supports sustainable livelihoods, promotes chemical-free shrimp farming, and aids carbon sequestration and climate action,” said Ajanta Dey, Joint Secretary of NEWS, upon receiving the award.

Experts and government officials have hailed the SAIME model as a vital step toward addressing the environmental damage caused by rampant shrimp farming in the Sundarbans. The model provides a blueprint for sustainable aquaculture that can be replicated in other coastal regions facing similar challenges. The FAO’s recognition underscores the importance of innovative, ecosystem-based approaches to food production and environmental conservation.

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