Boosting Fisheries in Northeast India
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, recently held a significant meeting focused on the Northeastern Region. This event aimed to review the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh chaired the meeting, which also featured the presence of key dignitaries, including Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, and Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel. The meeting highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the fisheries sector in the Northeastern Region (NER) of India.
Major Initiatives Launched
During the meeting, the Union Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 impactful projects, with a total investment of ₹50 crore. Out of this, the central government will contribute ₹38.63 crore. These projects are designed to improve fisheries infrastructure, increase productivity, and create employment opportunities in the region. The initiatives aim to transform the fisheries landscape in the NER, which is rich in aquatic biodiversity and freshwater resources.
The projects will focus on various aspects of fisheries, including aquaculture, fish feed production, and cold storage facilities. By investing in these areas, the government aims to boost local economies and provide sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on fisheries. The projects are expected to generate significant revenue and employment, thereby contributing to the overall development of the region.
State-wise Allocations and Key Projects
The meeting provided a detailed overview of the projects allocated to each state in the Northeastern Region. Assam, for instance, will see the establishment of an Integrated Aqua Park in Darrang District. This facility is projected to produce 150 metric tons of fish annually, generating revenue of ₹10-15 crore and creating around 2,000 jobs. Additionally, a Large Fish Feed Plant in Kamrup District will produce 20,000 metric tons of feed each year, supporting local aquaculture.
In Manipur, the focus will be on establishing ice plants and cold storage units in Thoubal and Imphal districts. These facilities will help preserve fish produce and minimize post-harvest losses. Meanwhile, Meghalaya will promote recreational fisheries in the East Khasi Hills District, aiming to attract tourists and generate local employment.
Nagaland will construct freshwater finfish hatcheries in Mokokchung and Kiphire districts, producing 21 million fry annually. This initiative will support local aquaculture and provide economic opportunities for tribal communities. In Tripura, ornamental fish rearing units and finfish hatcheries will be established to harness indigenous fish resources. Lastly, Sikkim will implement 24 projects, including sustainable fish farming systems and fish kiosks, enhancing income generation for local communities.
The Importance of the Fisheries Sector in Northeast India
The Northeastern Region is crucial for India’s self-reliance in fisheries and aquaculture. The government has invested ₹2,114 crore in fisheries through various flagship schemes, including the Blue Revolution Scheme and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). These investments have significantly improved infrastructure, productivity, and sustainable practices in the region.
As a result, inland fish production in the NER has increased from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, achieving an impressive annual growth rate of 5%. This growth underscores the effectiveness of targeted policies and interventions that position the NER as a key player in India’s Blue Economy vision.
The Department of Fisheries has prioritized the NER for growth, focusing on establishing modern aquaculture parks, hatcheries, and fish processing units. Innovative technologies like Biofloc systems and recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS) are being promoted to enhance productivity and strengthen value chains. These efforts aim to boost market access for fish farmers and improve the livelihoods of communities dependent on fisheries.
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