Fish farmers felicitated
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, July 10 2025: The 25th National Fish Farmers Day was celebrated today at the Department of Fisheries office premises at Lamphelpat.

The event included a prize distribution ceremony for the Fish Fair cum Fish Crop Competition, which was held as part of last year's Ningol Chakkouba celebrations.

Salam Lokendro Singh of Laphupat Tera, Imphal West, was awarded the Highest Producer of Fish (Individual Category) and Highest Indigenous Fish Producer for producing 43,765 kg of fish.

He received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a citation.

The second and third positions were secured by Ningthoujam Basanta Singh of Khordak, Bishupur and Laimujam Dinamani of Tentha, Thoubal District, who received Rs 70,000 and Rs 50,000, respectively.

Additionally, 20 consolation prize winners each received Rs 10,000 and a citation.

Addressing the function, Director of Fishery T Phulen Meitei stated that the day aims to celebrate not just fish farmers but also the significant advancements and developments in the fish farming sector.

He stated that the annual State's fish production falls short of its requirement by 20,000 metric tons, resulting in the need to import fish from other States.

Saying that the State has a potential to produce 60,000 metric ton of fish annually according to experts, he urged farmers to take advantage of the various insurance schemes launched by the Government.

He added that fish holds a significant place in the State's cultural identity, being an integral part of various life events from birth to death, and is deeply ingrained in the local tradition of consuming fish.

While commending his staff for their dedication and efforts to support fishermen, he acknowledged that there is always scope for improvement and expressed his commitment to further enhancing the department's work in the coming months.

He congratulated the award-winning farmers and encouraged them to increase their production in the coming years.

The department, he noted, has successfully implemented the 'Sareng' project and is currently working to revive 'Ngakijou', with expert consultations underway.

A book was also released on the occasion.

The event's main attraction was a soulful musical performance by celebrated singer Hamom Sadananda.

Neeta Arambam, Special Secretary (Fisheries), Kh Lalmani, Controller of Examinations, Manipur Public Service Commission (MPSC), L Jayarani Devi, Additional Director of Fisheries, T Romi Singh, Joint Director of Fisheries Hemchandra Ningthoujam, Project Officer of Directorate of Fisheries also attended the programme among others.

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