Aizawl, May 13: The Mizoram Fish Farmers’ Meet, organised by the Fisheries Department, was held on Wednesday at Dawrpui Multipurpose Hall with Chief Minister Lalduhoma in attendance and Fisheries Minister Lalthansanga as the guest of honor.
In his address, the Chief Minister emphasised that Mizoram has nearly 24,000 hectares suitable for fish farming, but only about 6,000 hectares roughly 25 percent have been developed into ponds. He noted that limited pond availability and inadequate storage facilities remain major challenges, while productivity per hectare continues to be low.
Lalduhoma stressed that improving output from existing ponds should be prioritised, even if new ponds cannot be immediately established. He urged fish farmers to adopt modern technologies and scientific practices such as effective pond management, fish health care, and feeding methods to enhance productivity and profitability.
He further stated that under the Fisheries Minister’s leadership, the Government is working to boost fish production through schemes including the Blue Revolution, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and the Bana Kaih (Handholding) Scheme. Preparations and action plans have already been drawn up for the anticipated launch of PMMSY 2.0.
Under the Bana Kaih flagship initiative, assistance has been extended to 201 beneficiaries for pond construction through the Chief Minister’s Special Package, while 14 others have received support through loans. In the second phase, which resumed last September, 27 beneficiaries have been aided under the Special Package and five through loans, with applications still open for eligible proposals. Lalduhoma assured that additional initiatives beyond existing schemes would be considered if project details and financial requirements are viable.
Earlier in the programme, Fisheries Secretary Er. Lalrothanga presented survey findings and issues raised by fish farmers. Director Zonuntluangi delivered the welcome address, while Joint Secretary Zonunthari proposed the vote of thanks.
