24th National Fish Farmer's Day observed
Role of fish farming to meet needs noted
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, July 10 2024:
The 24th National Fish Farmer's Day was observed today at the office complex of Directorate of Fisheries Lamphelpat, Imphal West recognizing the contributions of fish farmers and their commitment to sustainable aquaculture.
The programme was organized by the Directorate of Fisheries, Government of Manipur.
The National Fish Farmer's Day is celebrated on July 10 every year to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of fish farmers, aquaculture industry professionals, and other stakeholders toward ensuring a sustainable and thriving fisheries sector.
Addressing the gathering, MH Khan, Special Chief Secretary Forest, said fishery is the future of Manipur's economy.
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The shortage of fish production faced earlier in the State has been overcome to a good extent by the efficient, hard working and dedicated fish farmers and the use of modern technologies, he said.
Fish farming helps meet the growing demand for fish protein, and it generates employment.
Khan expressed how Andhra Pradesh and other South Indian States are playing a major role in the fish sector, and said the fish farmers here are also playing a vital role in promoting the indigenous Sareng (Wallago attu) .
There was a huge gap in the demand and supply of fish in Manipur.
To plug this gap, the Chief Minister envisaged an action plan under which the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other experts started the Sareng Project in 2020, he said.
Khan further said the Government of India has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to improve the fisheries sector.
Fisheries Director H Balkrishna Singh lauded farmers for their contribution in improving the State's fish production.
Six successful farmers who have made tremendous contributions towards promoting Sareng were felicitated during the event.
Principal Secretary (Fisheries) Neeta Arambam attended the event.