World Fisheries Day 2020 observed in Cachar

Nov.21: World Fisheries Day is observed every year on 21 November to demonstrate solidarity with fisher folk, community, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders throughout the world. The Department of Fisheries, Cachar also organised the day at zonal level combining three districts of Barak Valley at the office of the Fishery Development Officer, Cachar and observed the day in a befitting manner. District Development Commissioner, Jessica Lalsim graced the occasion as a chief guest.

Speaking on the occasion, District Development Commissioner, Cachar Lalsim said, “On World Fisheries Day, I convey my best wishes to Fisheries Department and fish farmers of the three districts of Barak Valley. Under the leadership of Minister Fisheries, Barak Valley has improved manifold in fish production. During lockdown also there was no shortage of fish for citizens, although there was no import of fish from Andhra Pradesh during those days. The government is coming up with a slew of schemes to augment production of fish to make Barak Valley self sufficient in fish production. Today as we inaugurate PMSSY schemes, Fisheries Department as well as fish farmers must pledge to ensure the objectives of the scheme is fulfilled”.

Prasanta Dutta, District Fisheries Department Officer, Karimganj, Harun Rashid Mandal, District Fisheries Development Officer, Hailakandi, LI Singh, District Agriculture Officer, Cachar, Subodh Das, nominee of Fisheries Minister were also present in the meeting. Further, the nominee of Fisheries Minister described different fisheries technology as well as government schemes for enhancing fish production as he has been associated with fish farming for last 10 years.

During the event, KCC sanction letters were distributed among the fishermen and fish farmers in the presence of branch manager and other bank officials of North East Small Finance Bank and Punjab National bank. District Fisheries Development Officer, Cachar, Rafiqul Haque described the objectives and significance of celebrating World Fisheries Day and explained about the government support in terms of different schemes to achieve the goal of “Atmanirbhor Assam”.

The progressive fish farmers namely Amaresh Das and Sajol Das from Palonghat block were felicitated. 10 KCC sanction letters were also distributed to fish farmers from various blocks. In the meeting, 200 fish farmers and self help groups were present.