Importance of protecting fishermen's rights, strengthening Manipur's fisheries sector stressed
Source: The Sangai Express

Thoubal, November 08 2026: The two-day seminar on 'Rights of Fishermen', jointly organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), New Delhi and The Loktak Arts, Manipur, concluded today at NICA Hall, Tentha in Thoubal district.

Around 200 fishermen participated in the two-day seminar.

The valedictory programme was graced by Moirangthem Hemanta Singh, former minister and chairman of Ching Tam Fishery Society as the chief guest.

In his address, he expressed concern over Manipur's inability to meet its fish requirements through local production and highlighted the shortcomings of both the State Government and the fishing community.

He urged the State Government to give special attention and adequate financial support to fishermen, emphasising that fish is an essential food item stressing that strengthening the fisheries sector is vital for food security and economic development.

Expressing satisfaction over the seminar's findings, he highlighted six major recommendations which are as follows - formation of a Manipur Fishery Development Board, identification of fishermen and issuance of fishermen identity cards, enactment of a comprehensive Manipur Fishery Act, inclusion of fishermen's welfare and fisheries development in the election manifestos of all political parties, adequate budgetary allocation for the Fisheries Department and rights of fisherman.

During the seminar, legal experts, Fisheries Department officials, LIC and NGO activists delivered presentations on various aspects of fishermen's human rights, welfare and livelihood protection.

The seminar was presided over by Naorem Ingobi Singh, retired Project Director, ATMA (Agriculture).

The seminar concluded with a call for concrete Government action, institutional support and collective commitment to protect fishermen's rights and strengthen Manipur's fisheries sector.

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