IT News
Imphal, Feb 8:
Manipur has the capacity to produce 45 metric tons of fish out of the state’s total demand of 65 metric tons, while investments in the fishery sector from external sources amounting to Rs. 400 crore can be utilized effectively up to Rs. 200 crore, stated Fishery Minister Heikham Dingo.
He made these remarks during a media awareness program held as part of the “Fishery Outreach Program” at the Auditorium Hall of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in Nityaipat Chuthek. The event was organized by the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM).
Key attendees included Fishery Minister Heikham Dingo, Fishery Department Director T. Phulen, IPR Director Ngangom Uttam, All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) President Bijoy Kakchingtabam, Editors Guild Manipur (EGM) President Khogendra Khomdram, and Hills Journalists Union President Peter Adani.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Dingo emphasized that the Fishery Department is one of the most crucial departments in Manipur, receiving substantial budgetary allocations. He pointed out that among the northeastern states, Manipur has the potential to emerge as a significant fish-producing region. The state’s fertile wetlands provide opportunities not just for fish farming but also for self-sufficiency in fish production, reducing dependence on external sources.
Minister Dingo further stated that with the identification of multiple wetlands suitable for fish farming, Manipur can enhance its fish production significantly. Moreover, the initiative to breed the indigenous Sareng (Wallago attu) fish could position Manipur as the first state in India to successfully cultivate this species on a large scale.
The Minister reiterated that all these developments are possible due to the strategic efforts of the Fishery Department and the available resources. He concluded by encouraging further discussions on the challenges and opportunities in the fishery sector to ensure sustainable growth and self-reliance in fish production in Manipur.
