The Mizoram Fish Farmers’ Meet, organized by the Fisheries Department, was held on Wednesday at Dawrpui Multipurpose Hall. The programme was attended by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, while Fisheries Minister Lalthansanga the guest of honor. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stated that Mizoram has an estimated 24,000 hectares suitable for fish farming, of which fishponds have so far been developed in around 6,000 hectares only — about 25 per cent of the total potential area. He noted that one of the major challenges in fish production in Mizoram is the limited number of ponds and inadequate storage facilities. He also pointed out that the State’s fish productivity per hectare remains low.
The Chief Minister stressed that increasing fish productivity from existing ponds should now become a priority, even if new ponds cannot immediately be developed. He emphasized the need for fish farmers to adopt modern technologies and scientific practices in fish farming, including proper pond management, fish health care, and feeding practices, to improve productivity and profitability. He stated that under the leadership of the Fisheries Minister, the Government is actively working to enhance fish production through various schemes such as the Blue Revolution, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and the Bana Kaih (Handholding) Scheme. He added that preparations and Action Plans have already been made in anticipation of the launch of PMMSY 2.0.
Under the Mizoram Flagship Scheme Bana Kaih, assistance has been extended to 201 beneficiaries for fishpond construction through the CM Special Package, while 14 beneficiaries have been supported through the loan component. During the second phase of the scheme, which resumed from September last year, 27 beneficiaries have already been assisted through the CM Special Package and 5 through the loan component. He informed that applications under the ongoing second phase remain open for eligible project proposals.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that the Government is exploring additional initiatives beyond existing Central Schemes and Bana Kaih support and assured that viable proposals with proper project details and financial requirements would be seriously considered for implementation. Earlier, Lalrothanga, Secretary, Fisheries Department, presented a summary of surveys conducted and issues raised by fish farmers. Smt Zonuntluangi, Director, Fisheries, delivered the welcome address, while Zonunthari, Joint Secretary, Fisheries Department, proposed the vote of thanks.
