Fisheries Development Projects Worth Rs.50 Crore Launched In NE

Guwahati: Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 50 fisheries development projects worth Rs. 50 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) covering all the states in the Northeastern Region (NER) except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram on January 6.

The projects aim to improve the region's fisheries infrastructure, output, and employment chances. Key projects in Assam include the founding of an Integrated Aqua Park in Darrang district, which is predicted to produce 150 million tonnes of fish annually, generating Rs 10-15 crore in income and creating up to 2,000 employment chances.

A large fish feed plant in Kamrup district will produce 20,000 MT feed annually, while hatchery projects in various districts aim to produce 50 million spawns per year, meaningfully increasing local aquaculture.

Manipur will see the founding of ice plants and cold storage units in Thoubal and Imphal districts to reserve fish produce and reduce post-harvest losses. Meghalaya's schemes will focus on sanctioning recreational fisheries in the East Khasi Hills district, which is purposely located in an overall tourist area, enticing visitors, making local services, and enhancing the region's tourism plea.

Nagaland's three schemes will include the construction of freshwater finfish hatcheries in the Mokokchung and Kiphire districts, supporting the region's aquaculture and providing economic chances for tribal societies. In Tripura, the projects will include establishing ornamental fish-rearing units and finfish hatcheries, promoting ornamental fish farming, harnessing native fish resources and generating local employment chances.

ALSO READ: Automobile Retail Sales Rise 9% In 2024 Despite Multiple Headwinds: FADA

Sikkim will devise 24 projects, including establishing Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to endorse sustainable fish farming, the construction of fish kiosks in Gangtok and other towns, and the development of ornamental fish rearing units. These projects will likely enhance income generation and livelihood opportunities for local communities.

The Northeastern Region (NER) is at the forefront of India's journey toward self-reliance in fisheries and aquaculture, reflecting the government's pledge to comprehensive development. With abundant freshwater resources and exceptional aquatic biodiversity, the NER has become a cornerstone of India's strategy for economic growth and livelihood enhancement. 

The Department of Fisheries (DoF) has ordered the NER as a critical focal point for growth, establishing modern aquaculture parks, hatcheries, and fish processing units while promoting innovative technologies like Biofloc systems and recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS).