GUWAHATI: In a unique initiative to bolster the fish business among the unemployed youth of the state, the Nagaland Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (F&AR) handed out 20 motorcycles, each fitted with an ice box, on Wednesday.
Legislator A Pangjung Jamir, took the lead in this initiative, distributing the keys and requisite documents to a select group of beneficiaries under the central scheme – Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
Highlighting the aim behind the move, Jamir pointed out the need for proper storage of fish during transportation. “By equipping motorcycles with ice boxes, we aim to encourage a sustainable fish business among the youth, especially in areas that are challenging for larger vehicles to navigate,” he told the press.
The project was rolled out in 2020-21 when two such motorcycles were distributed to gauge the feasibility and impact of the idea. Impressed by the positive outcomes of the trial, the department escalated its request for 20 motorcycles for the 2022-23 period, which were then granted under the PMMSY, revealed Lotimenba, the Additional Director of F&AR, to the press.
Rongsennungba, the Director of F&AR, stated that the beneficiaries spanned across all districts of Nagaland, encompassing both fish-farmers and unemployed youth.
He, however, sounded a note of caution, adding that the department would maintain a vigilant eye on the actual usage of these motorcycles. “Any deviation from their intended purpose might result in confiscation,” he warned.
With this initiative, the Nagaland government aims to revolutionize fish trade by ensuring fresh produce reaches consumers even in the remotest corners of the state.
