Certificate distribution programme held for Pisciculture trainers at Laphupat Tera

A certificate distribution ceremony was held today at Laphupat Tera Mayai Leikai Community Hall to mark the completion of a fish farming training programme. The training, conducted during May and June, was jointly organised by Punjab National Bank – Rural Self Employment Training Institute (RSETI), Kakching District, and State Bank of India – RSETI, Imphal West, in collaboration with the All Manipur United Fish Farmers’ Association (AMUFFA).
Altogether, 68 trainers received certificates during the programme, which was attended by dignitaries including Director of Fisheries, Government of Manipur, Takhellambam Phulen Meetei as Chief Guest. AMUFFA President Mayengbam Bimolchand, SBI-RSETI Imphal West Director Yumkhaibam Deban Singh, AMUCO President Ph. Nando Luwang, and Chandel DFO Angom Momo Singh were present as Guests of Honour.
Ph. Nando Luwang highlighted the importance of promoting local fish farming for health, food security, and economic self-reliance. He cautioned against the consumption of imported frozen fish, which may be preserved with harmful chemicals, and urged farmers to revive indigenous and sustainable practices.
Director Yumkhaibam Deban Singh encouraged trainers to apply their skills and assured continued support from banks. He said quality training and access to financial aid are key to transforming fish farming into a viable livelihood.
Chief Guest T. Phulen stressed that fish is a part of Manipuri culture and daily life. He noted that the state’s fish requirement stands at 58,000 metric tonnes annually, while current production is only 30,000 metric tonnes. To bridge the gap, the Fisheries Department plans to install fish feed mills and cold storage units across districts.