Shillong, Nov 22: The Department of Fisheries observed World Fisheries Day on Friday with a special programme highlighting the importance of sustainable fisheries, livelihood promotion, and ecological conservation.
The event brought together fish farmers, officials, and stakeholders from across the State.
Fisheries Minister Timothy D Shira, who attended the event, emphasised the growing potential of Meghalaya’s fisheries sector and the crucial importance of protecting freshwater ecosystems. He also appreciated the increasing enthusiasm among youth to take up aquaculture as a livelihood, describing it as a positive shift that aligns with the State’s vision of sustainable rural entrepreneurship.
Shira underscored the need to balance development with conservation, noting that fisheries are deeply linked to the socio-economic well-being of rural communities. He highlighted government initiatives under the Fisheries Department, including the promotion of scientific aquaculture, establishment of hatcheries, capacity-building for fish farmers, and strengthening of community-managed fisheries. He reiterated the State Government’s commitment under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to enhance fish production and improve incomes for fish farmers.
Principal Secretary Harish Chandra Chaudhary informed that the draft Bill for the conservation, development and sustainable use of resources in the fisheries sector is being finalised by the government, which focuses on sustainable management, regulation, and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Farmers and entrepreneurs who have contributed to Aquaculture were also felicitated with awards, certificates, cash prizes and mementos on the occasion.
