Jammu: To commemorate the World Fisheries Day, the Department of Fisheries Tuesday organized an impressive awareness program at Bahu Fort here Tuesday.
The program was graced by the Commissioner/Secretary Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, R. K. Bhagat as chief guest, while as Director Environment and Remote Sensing O. P. Sharma was the guest of honor. Director Fisheries, R. N. Pandita was also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the Commissioner/Secretary highlighted the importance of the day and role of the Fisheries Department for conservation and promotion of fish culture in the State. He said it is endeavor of the Government to promote and develop various species of fish which are economically viable in the State. He said fisheries is one of the most viable income generation sectors in the State and large number of unemployed entrepreneurs are showing interest in this activity. This sector has also been flagged in other schemes including, PM’s Package, RKVY (NMPS), Blue Revolution, ATMA and Mission Fingerling etc. for the benefits of unemployed youth and farmers.
Bhagat said various steps have been taken by the department to make the state self-sufficient in fish production including construction of Fish Farms, Fish Seed Hatcheries’, Brood Banks etc. He said the department is also providing logistic and technical support to the fish farmers as well as professional fishermen by providing various incentives like imparting of training, provision of By-cycles, Auto Rickshaws’, Nylon Twine, Tool Kits etc. He said the department is also making efforts for upliftment of the downtrodden fishermen community and in this regard the fishermen are provided Low Cost Houses, Scholarships and Insurance Cover also.
The Director Fisheries briefly showcased the activities of the Department and steps taken under various schemes for upliftment of fishermen community and fish farmers. He said there is lot of potential and viability in this sector and more and more youth and farmers should come forward and set up their livelihood units and avail the benefits under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes. He said at present the fish production of the state is about 20.39 thousand tonnes and efforts are being made to further boost the by affective implementation of various schemesSeveral scholars, students, fishermen and fish farmers were present on the occasion.
