Tripura Gains Momentum in Fisheries Development at Northeastern States Meet
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, organized the Northeastern Region States Meet to review the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Chaired by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, the event emphasized the pivotal role of fisheries in the economic and social development of the Northeastern states, with special attention to Tripura’s growing contributions in this sector.
Significant Boost for Tripura’s Fisheries Sector
Tripura emerged as a key beneficiary of the Union government’s new initiatives, with three critical projects launched at a cost of ₹58 lakh. These projects aim to:
- Establish Ornamental Fish Rearing Units: Designed to promote the farming of ornamental fish, this initiative taps into Tripura’s rich biodiversity and growing demand for ornamental fish in national and international markets.
- Develop Finfish Hatcheries: These hatcheries will help conserve indigenous fish species, enhance local fish production, and boost commercial aquaculture in the state.
- Create Employment Opportunities: The projects are expected to generate substantial employment in rural areas, directly benefiting fish farmers, women, and tribal communities.
Tripura’s Growing Role in Fisheries
Tripura has witnessed a steady increase in inland fish production, supported by its favorable geographic and climatic conditions. With over 7,000 hectares of water bodies, the state holds immense potential for aquaculture development. Under PMMSY, Tripura has already seen investments in infrastructure such as fish markets, cold storage facilities, and modern hatcheries.
The ornamental fish sector, in particular, is gaining momentum. Local species like Boro Puti, Nandi, and Katli are being bred and marketed as high-value ornamental fish, with the new rearing units further accelerating this trend. These initiatives align with the state government’s push to position Tripura as a leader in sustainable and profitable fisheries practices.
Key Highlights Across the Northeast
The event also focused on major projects in neighboring states:
- Assam: An Integrated Aqua Park and a large fish feed plant.
- Manipur: Ice plants and biodiversity-focused hatcheries.
- Meghalaya: Recreational fisheries promoting tourism.
- Nagaland: Freshwater hatcheries producing 21 million fry annually.
- Sikkim: Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems and ornamental fish rearing units.
A Path to Self-Reliance
The government’s cumulative investment of ₹2,114 crore in fisheries across the Northeast has significantly enhanced productivity, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Tripura, with its focus on local resources, innovative technologies like Biofloc systems, and sustainable practices, is set to play a key role in driving India’s Blue Economy vision.
As Tripura continues to harness its aquatic resources, these projects mark a transformative step toward achieving self-reliance in fisheries while uplifting rural and tribal communities across the state.
