Meghalaya Launches Major Drive for Fish Farming Self-Sufficiency
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has announced a significant push for large-scale fish farming in Meghalaya. The state government wants to achieve self-sufficiency in fish production. This move aims to meet the growing local demand and reduce dependence on imports.
Bridging the Supply Gap
Meghalaya currently consumes between 28,000 and 32,000 metric tonnes of fish every year. Local production provides only 20,000 metric tonnes. The state imports the remaining 12,000 metric tonnes from other regions.
We are encouraging farmers to produce more fish, Sangma stated. The government has introduced various support structures and schemes to boost production. Officials are also motivating private entrepreneurs to establish large-scale commercial fish farms.
Focus on Large Commercial Players
Most fish farmers in Meghalaya operate on a small scale. Sangma emphasized the need for bigger operations. We require 20, 30, or 50 large players to set up very large commercial farms, he said.
The state is working towards establishing 96 hatcheries to support this expansion. Currently, 61 hatcheries are operational. They produce 24.7 million fingerlings annually.
Goals for Self-Sufficiency and Exports
Sangma expressed strong optimism about Meghalaya's fish production future. He believes the state will soon reach self-sufficiency. This achievement would generate new livelihoods for local communities.
Once we cross the 30,000-32,000 metric tonne mark in production, we will be able to export fish to our neighbouring states, the Chief Minister projected. The government is ensuring fish quality and safety through random inspections by food safety officials.
We are taking action wherever we find abnormal figures or traces of chemicals or unhealthy elements, Sangma added, highlighting the commitment to food safety.
Substantial Government Investment
Last year, Sangma informed the legislative assembly about significant funding allocations. The government had allocated Rs 97.68 crore for fishery development between 2020 and 2024. This funding supported the construction of 3,230 fishery ponds under various schemes.
The Aqua Mission, launched back in 2011, has already shown success. It produced 4,000 metric tonnes of fish. However, Sangma noted the mission would require an additional 4,000 hectares of land to make the state fully self-sufficient.
Addressing the Fish Feed Shortage
A major challenge remains the supply of fish feed. Current production stands at only 778 metric tonnes. The demand is much higher at 30,000 metric tonnes.
To bridge this gap, the government has sanctioned funds for new infrastructure. Plans include setting up 12 new feed mills and upgrading 17 existing ones. This investment aims to create a robust supply chain for the growing aquaculture sector.
Meghalaya's comprehensive strategy focuses on scaling up production through commercial farms, expanding hatchery capacity, ensuring quality control, and investing in critical infrastructure like feed mills. The state leadership appears determined to transform local fish farming into a major economic activity.
