World Fisheries Day 2024 celebration
GANGTOK,(IPR): Highlighting various State government incentives for fish farming, piggery, dairy products, and farm produces like red cherry pepper chilli (dalle), aiming to promote self-sufficiency and economic growth, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay emphasised the importance of supporting local industries during the World Fisheries Day Celebration 2024, organised by the Fisheries department at Chintan Bhawan on Thursday.
Lauding the remarkable progress made by the Fisheries department since its upgrade from a directorate, the Chief Minister stressed the significance of sustainable fish farming in driving economic growth in Sikkim, noting that World Fisheries Day offers a chance to assess progress, distribute benefits, and strategize sector improvements. He highlighted the State government's recognition of the fisheries sector's potential through the establishment of the Fisheries department. This initiative boosts fish farmers' livelihoods, increases productivity, and promotes eco-friendly practices balancing environmental protection with economic growth.
Notable programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Mukhya Mantri Matsya Utpadan Yojana (MMMUY) have substantially improved fish farmers' livelihoods. These initiatives demonstrate the government's dedication to advancing the fisheries sector through modern technologies, training, and financial support, he added.
He urged everyone in the fisheries community to adopt sustainable practices and utilise government support programmes. He emphasised that their efforts, innovation, and resilience are the foundation of the sector.
The Chief Minister said that working together will help the sector grow and protect the environment for future generations. He called on all stakeholders to strengthen their commitment to building a sustainable future for aquaculture in Sikkim and beyond.
The Chief Minister commended officials from the Fisheries department and fish farmers for their efforts. He assured that the State government would continue to support local initiatives and encouraged farmers to make full use of government schemes and incentives.
He highlighted the establishment of the Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Cell to simplify access to medical facilities and advised people to contact the designated medical officer in the Chief Minister’s Office for assistance. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing support and encouraged everyone to utilise the available schemes.
The Chief Minister announced the formation of the State Niti Ayog, which will monitor progress, accelerate development initiatives, and ensure the effective implementation of schemes and policies. He congratulated the beneficiaries and awardees and encouraged them to continue their work. He thanked the public for their support and concluded by urging people to verify information and avoid false reports.
Fisheries minister Puran Kumar Gurung, in his address, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his presence and support. He discussed improving fish farming to benefit the region’s economy and environment.
The minister highlighted ornamental fish farming as a potential boost to local economies by accessing global markets. He also talked about central government schemes that offer financial and technical support to farmers, aimed at modernising fish farming, enhancing sustainability, and increasing production. He stated that with the right investments and partnerships, fish farming could become a key part of the region’s agriculture, improving food security and creating job opportunities.
Earlier, the programme began with a welcome address by Roshni Rai, secretary, Fisheries department. She outlined the agenda of the programme and highlighted the progress made in the fisheries sector and the State’s efforts to promote self-reliant and sustainable fish farming.
The secretary emphasised the various initiatives and schemes of the State government, including the Mukhya Mantri Matsya Utpadan Yojana (MMMUY) and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which aim to enhance livelihoods and strengthen aquaculture practices in Sikkim.
A video presentation on the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Sikkim was shown. The video showcased the achievements and the role of schemes in improving the fisheries infrastructure and livelihood opportunities for fish farmers in the State.
The Chief Minister virtually inaugurated several beneficiary projects under PMMSY and a fish farm at Chitrey, Namchi district. The farm is funded under the Environmental Management Plan of Teesta Stage-VI by LANCO. This initiative aims to conserve and produce high-quality brooders and seeds of endangered indigenous fish species native to the region.
The Chief Minister launched the official website of the Fisheries department to improve access to fisheries-related information and services. The Fisheries department, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Barrackpore, has launched an initiative to foster interest in ornamental fisheries among students. Under this initiative, aquariums were distributed to 50 schools under Gangtok and Pakyong districts.
New beneficiaries under the Mukhya Mantri Matsya Utpadan Yojana (MMMUY) and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) were presented with tokens. Additionally, six fish farmers were handed Kisan Credit Cards by the Chief Minister. Certificates of appreciation were presented to notable fish farmers by the Chief Minister, recognising their dedication and success.
Awards and cash prizes were presented to the top 11 fish farmers in various categories by the Chief Minister.
A short video on the Fish Festival 2024 was presented, followed by a promotional video on trout fish prepared by Rinchen Wangdi Bhutia, an entrepreneur. He was also felicitated by the Chief Minister with a memento and a certificate of appreciation.
At the outset of the programme, the Chief Minister also visited the stalls put up on the premises of Chintan Bhawan.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by KK Shrestha, director, Fisheries department, followed by a technical session for stakeholders.