The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, organised the fourth session of its ‘Meet the Press’ series on Friday at the DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal. The session featured officials of the Fisheries Department, Government of Manipur, who highlighted the Department’s major initiatives, achievements and future plans for strengthening sustainable fisheries and improving the livelihoods of fish farmers in the State.
The Department was represented by T. Phulen Meitei, Director of Fisheries; Hemchandra N., Joint Director; Sapam Jiten Singh, FI/FRC; Adm Gangmei, Fisheries Inspector; L. Sukumar Singh, Fisheries Officer; and M. Makuchung, Fisheries Inspector.
Sustainable Fisheries
Addressing the media, T. Phulen Meitei said that the Fisheries Department has been implementing several innovative programmes aimed at conserving indigenous fish species, promoting scientific aquaculture practices, and enhancing the income of fish farmers across Manipur.
MoA with ICAR–CIFE, Mumbai
Highlighting one of the Department’s major achievements, he informed that the Fisheries Department has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, to promote the scientific breeding of the indigenous high-value fish Ngakrijou (Loach). The initiative introduces scientific breeding technology, licensing of fish farmers, and specialised training programmes to reduce dependence on wild collection while ensuring conservation and commercial propagation of the species.
Livelihood Initiatives
Speaking on livelihood enhancement initiatives, Phulen Meitei said that under the Loktak Livelihood Mission, the Department initially established two cage culture batteries and one pen culture grow-out unit at Naranseina along Loktak Lake. Building on the success of the pilot project, the Department has subsequently installed 45 cage culture batteries and 35 pen culture grow-out units at Takmu Lake, Thanga, Toubul Gram Panchayat, and other peripheral areas of Loktak Lake, significantly improving fish production and the livelihoods of communities residing around the lake.
Sareng Revival Project
The Director further highlighted the progress made under the Sareng Revival Project, which was launched on 10 July 2021 on the occasion of National Fish Farmers’ Day, with a provision of 50% Government assistance towards the total rearing cost. He said that the project aims to revive and promote the indigenous Sareng fish through scientific breeding and farmer participation.
He recalled that during the Ningol Chakouba Mela 2021, the Fisheries Department successfully showcased the first live demonstration of Sareng fish in an aquarium tank, marking a significant milestone in the conservation of the species.
Production Milestones
– 2022: Pond culture of Sareng resulted in production of 2,600 kg for Emoinu Fish Mela and 2,400 kg for Ningol Chakouba Mela.
– 2023: Production exceeded 4,000 kg for the Ningol Chakouba Mela, attracting widespread public appreciation.
– June 2024: Induced breeding technology was successfully implemented across different locations, enabling farmers to expand Sareng cultivation and produce over 7,000 kg for the Ningol Chakouba Mela 2025.
– 2026: The project will continue with continued Government support through 50% financial assistance to fish farmers.
Modernisation of Fisheries Infrastructure
The Director also highlighted the Department’s efforts to modernise fisheries infrastructure. A fish feed production unit with a capacity of 250–500 kilograms per day has been installed at the Fish Farmers’ Development Agency (FFDA), Lamphel, enabling local production of quality fish feed. To support scientific aquaculture, the Department has distributed 100 electric paddle aerators and 50 water and soil testing kits to progressive fish farmers across the State.
Fish Cluster Project in Bishnupur
He further informed that the Department is implementing the Fish Cluster Project in Bishnupur District, adopting a cluster-based approach covering the entire fisheries value chain from production to processing and marketing.
The project, currently in the implementation stage, includes the construction of new grow-out ponds, establishment of fish seed hatcheries, biofloc units, ornamental fish units and kiosks, Re-circulatory Aquaculture System (RAS) facilities, fish feed mini mills with a production capacity of 2 tonnes per day, fish value-addition enterprises, an ice plant with a minimum 10-tonne cold storage capacity, and installation of cage culture units.
Commitment reaffirmed
Phulen Meitei reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to adopting scientific innovations, conserving indigenous fish species, expanding aquaculture infrastructure and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for fish farmers. He expressed gratitude to scientists, researchers, partner institutions, fish farmers and all stakeholders for their continued support and cooperation in strengthening the fisheries sector in Manipur.