National Fish Festival: Promotion of Fish Consumption in India

Fisheries sector provide us with avenues for food, nutrition, livelihood, employment and recreation. In world, more than 25% of the dietary proteins come from fish consumption. India ranks second in terms of fish production, with exports of around 13.77 lakh tonnes per annum. 

There is a huge potential for fisheries in India, because we still lag behind many countries in terms of per capita consumption of fishes. Around 40% of the population is vegetarian, thus there is an urgent need to boost domestic fish consumption across the nation by promoting its health benefits. 

Health benefits of Fish Consumption

1. Store house of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, magnesium 
2. Rich source of Vitamins like A, D, K, B12 and E 
3. Contains Omega-3 fatty acids 
4. Helps in regulating metabolism 
5. Boost immunity, to fight against infections 
6. Enhances health of nervous system 
7. Keeps circulatory system healthy by improving elasticity of blood vessels and capillaries 
8. Reduces bad cholesterol in body 
9. Prevents development of cancer, by lowering the formation of cancer causing agents 

National fish festival

National Fish Development Board (NFDB) extends financial assistance for construction of hygienic wholesale and retail fish markets, fish outlets, mobile fish vending vehicles, processing units etc. Realizing the importance of fisheries in Indian economy, the board started the ‘National Fish Festival’ initiative, with an aim to popularise fish as food.  

These festivals create awareness among consumers about benefits of fish consumption, by showcasing fish products. National Fish Festival is organized by NFDB on 10^th July, i.e., National Fish Farmers Day and on 21^st November, i.e., ‘World Fisheries Day’, in different parts of the country.