Assam: Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 fisheries projects worth Rs 50 crore in the Northeast on January 6, with the Central government contributing Rs 38.63 crore.
These initiatives aim to bolster fisheries infrastructure, enhance productivity, and create employment opportunities under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
In Assam, 12 projects were launched, including an Integrated Aqua Park in Darrang District, expected to produce 150 metric tonnes of fish annually, generate Rs 10-15 crore in revenue, and create up to 2,000 jobs.
Additionally, a fish feed plant in Kamrup will produce 20,000 metric tonnes of feed yearly, while hatcheries in multiple districts aim to generate 50 million spawns annually to boost local aquaculture.
Manipur saw the launch of seven projects, including ice plants and cold storage facilities in Thoubal and Imphal, which aim to minimize post-harvest losses.
Hatcheries focusing on native fish species will also contribute to biodiversity conservation and increased fish production.
In Meghalaya, a project in East Khasi Hills will promote recreational fisheries, strategically combining tourism and aquaculture to generate employment and attract visitors.
Similarly, Nagaland’s three projects include freshwater finfish hatcheries in Mokokchung and Kiphire, targeting an annual production of 21 million fry to support local aquaculture and tribal communities.
Tripura will see three projects, including ornamental fish rearing units and finfish hatcheries, designed to harness indigenous fish species and promote ornamental fish farming for economic upliftment.
Sikkim will implement 24 projects, focusing on sustainable fish farming through Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), fish kiosks, and ornamental fish rearing units, providing income and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Singh noted that cumulative investments of Rs 2,114 crore have been made in fisheries through flagship schemes like the Blue Revolution Scheme, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), and PMMSY.
These efforts have led to significant advancements in infrastructure, productivity, and sustainable practices, with inland fish production in the region increasing from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, achieving an annual growth rate of five percent.
Singh emphasized the Northeast’s potential as a key driver of India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, noting the government’s focus on modernizing the industry through innovative technologies like Biofloc systems and RAS. These initiatives aim to enhance productivity, strengthen value chains, and improve market access for fish farmers, placing the region at the forefront of India’s fisheries growth.
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