Transformative Milestone: Union Minister Unveils Rs 50 Crore Fisheries and Dairy Projects, Igniting Hope in the Northeast
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated a series of projects on January 6, aimed at enhancing fisheries infrastructure in India’s North Eastern states under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). With a total investment of Rs 50 crore, including Rs 38.63 crore from the Central government, the initiatives are positioned to boost regional productivity and employment.
In Assam, Singh laid the foundation for 12 projects, such as an Integrated Aqua Park in Darrang District, expected to yield 150 MT of fish annually, generating Rs 10-15 crore in revenue and up to 2,000 jobs. Kamrup district will see a large fish feed plant producing 20,000 MT feed annually, while hatchery developments across districts aim to raise 50 million spawns per year, enhancing local aquaculture efforts.
Manipur will benefit from seven projects, including ice plants and cold storage units in Thoubal and Imphal districts, reducing post-harvest losses, and hatcheries conserving biodiversity. Meghalaya’s sole project will focus on recreational fisheries in East Khasi Hills, drawing tourists and creating local employment.
In Nagaland, three projects will develop freshwater finfish hatcheries, producing 21 million fry annually to support regional aquaculture. Tripura’s initiatives will include ornamental fish rearing units and hatcheries, promoting indigenous fish farming and job creation.
Sikkim will undertake 24 projects, such as Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), fish kiosks, and ornamental fish units, aiming to increase local income and job opportunities.
These projects position the Northeastern Region as a key player in India’s fisheries and aquaculture self-reliance journey, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive development. Cumulative investments of Rs 2,114 crore through flagship schemes like the Blue Revolution Scheme have driven infrastructure improvements and productivity boosts, with inland fish production rising from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.
The Department of Fisheries prioritizes innovation in aquaculture parks and hatchery development, aiming to enhance productivity and market access for fish farmers.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/union-minister-inaugurates-fisheries-dairy-projects-worth-rs-50-crore-in-northeast-1150444-2025-01-07?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-01-07 08:25:00