Shillong: The fisheries sector of Meghalaya has witnessed a whopping 12.33 percent growth during the last 12 years.
Meghalaya Fisheries Minister A. L. Hek said at the 2nd Fisheries Summer Meet held in Madurai that the state’s fish production has grown from 4,799 MT in 2011-12 to 20,208 MT in 2023-24.
Four projects worth ₹57 lakh in Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi District, including a fish kiosk and bio-floc ponds, were also inaugurated during the event.
The meet was organised by the Department of Fisheries, which saw the e-inauguration of several projects across the country funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
Speaking at the event, AL Hek said Meghalaya is committed to sustainable development in the fisheries sector.
Hek said the sector now involves over 35,000 fish farmers and covers 4,500 hectares under fish culture.
“The state has seen an increase in per capita fish consumption to 11 kilograms over the past five years due to initiatives such as Blue Revolution and PMMSY,” Hek said.
The initiatives have added 2,299 hectares to fish cultivation and introduced technological advancements in the sector, the minister said.
Hek also said that the state plans to focus on sustainable practices through the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission.
In addition to that, Meghalaya is undertaking initiative on conservation efforts for native fish species through community-managed sanctuaries and protective breeding areas, he said.
Highlighting the challenges in the growth of the sector, Hek stated that timely financial assistance and insurance for fish farmers are essential to mitigate the impact of natural calamities.
He also urged stakeholders to work in partnership with Meghalaya in developing sustainable fisheries practices, highlighting unique opportunities such as cave fishes and ornamental fisheries.
