Azolla is a floating fern which resembles algae in appearance. It is one of floating aquatic macrophytes which are defined as plants that float on the water surface, usually with submerged roots and are generally not dependent on soil or water depth. Azolla has a higher crude protein content (ranging from 19 to 30 percent) and also rich in vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin B12 and Beta- Carotene), growth promoter intermediaries and minerals like calcium, phosphorous, potassium, ferrous, copper, magnesium. It is widely used as bio-fertilizer and cattle feed. Normally azolla is grown in paddy fields or shallow water bodies. It is a highly productive plant and multiplies very rapidly so that it can double in 3-10 days. Azolla cultivation is being tried at number of places near IIT Mandi by the efforts of CITHR. The initial results are very encouraging and the growth is phenomenal except during extreme cold days when it shows symptoms of dormancy. This effort has been done in co-operation with Dr Dr.Kamalasanan Pillai of Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari.