The 46th State-Level Fish Mela-cum-Fish Crop Competition 2025 was held today at Hapta Kangjeibung, Palace Compound, Imphal East, attracting a large crowd of buyers and visitors ahead of the Ningol Chakkouba festival. Organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur, the annual event showcased a wide variety of locally farmed fish produced by farmers from across the state.
Vivek Kumar Dewangan, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, graced the inaugural programme as Chief Guest, while Haobam Rosita, IAS, Commissioner of Fisheries, served as President.
Highlighting the government’s support for internally displaced people, Vivek Kumar Dewangan said arrangements were made for them to sell their produce at the fair free of charge, promoting livelihood opportunities. He also encouraged the Fisheries Department to increase production further, aiming for self-sufficiency in meeting the state’s domestic fish demand.
The department has set an ambitious target of selling 1.5 lakh kilograms of fish during this year’s fair. Popular varieties on display included the local Shareng (freshwater shark), which remains a crowd favorite during the festive season, along with Pengba, Ngaton, Ngakra, Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Grass Carp, and Silver Carp.
Director of Fisheries Phulen Meitei explained that the fair provides a platform for buyers and sellers to meet directly, with regulated fish prices to ensure fairness and affordability. “Manipur’s total fish demand stands at approximately 60,000 metric tonnes, of which local production accounts for nearly 45,000 metric tonnes. The remaining requirement is met through imports from Assam, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and even neighbouring countries like Myanmar and Bangladesh,” he said.
He added that while local fish production has potential for further growth, central support through schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), along with Kisan Credit Cards and bank loans, remains essential for meeting the needs of farmers. Initiatives to expand local fish farming include promoting low-cost hatcheries across districts. “Although production of the local Shareng has increased significantly this year, it still falls short of total demand. Measures are being taken to bridge this gap,” he noted.
Prizes will be awarded to the top-performing fish farmers in recognition of their contribution to the sector, underscoring the department’s commitment to excellence in fish production. Officials urged the public to support indigenous fish producers and avoid consuming imported fish, citing concerns over freshness and quality.