Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated the Northeastern States Meet on the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Guwahati on January 6, 2024, aimed at boosting the fisheries sector in the Northeast. Held at Hotel Radisson, Guwahati, Assam, the event brought together various stakeholders and was conducted in a hybrid format, ensuring broader participation.
The meeting focused on reviewing the implementation of PMMSY and its impact on the region's fisheries. As part of the event, the Union Minister laid the foundation for key projects worth around Rs. 50 crores. These initiatives are aimed at advancing the self-sustaining fisheries sector in the Northeastern Region. Certificates were distributed to fisheries beneficiaries from across the region, including NFDP registration certificates, KCC cards, and awards for Best FFPOs and Fisheries Start-ups.
A significant announcement at the event was the establishment of an Organic Fisheries Cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim, aimed at encouraging sustainable aquaculture practices. This move aligns with the government's vision of strengthening the region’s fisheries sector while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General at ICAR, led a technical session on the challenges facing fisheries and aquaculture in the Northeast. Issues such as resource management, infrastructure constraints, market access, and the impact of climate change were discussed. Dr. Jena also proposed innovative solutions tailored to the region's unique ecological and socio-economic conditions, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth in the sector.
The meeting served as a crucial platform to discuss regional challenges, share innovative solutions, and promote sustainable practices. It highlighted the government's commitment to fostering the growth of fisheries and aquaculture in the Northeast, with the goal of making the region self-sufficient in fish production.
It also highlighted the need to improve infrastructure, market linkages, and advanced techniques, all of which will contribute to increased productivity and economic growth.
