Meghalaya’s fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth with production increasing from 4,799 MT in 2011-12 to 20,208 MT in 2023-24, a growth of 12.33%. This development was highlighted by AL Hek, Minister for Fisheries, at the 2nd Fisheries Summer Meet, 2024, held in Madurai, Tamil Nadu on July 12.
The event organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India witnessed the e-inauguration of several projects across the country funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). These included four projects worth Rs 57 lakhs in Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya, including a fish kiosk and biofloc ponds.
Minister Hek emphasised Meghalaya’s commitment to sustainable development of fisheries, noting its importance to the socio-economic fabric of the state. He informed that the sector currently comprises over 35,000 fish farmers and covers 4,500 hectares of fish farming. In the past five years, the state has seen a rise in per capita fish consumption to 11 kilograms, which is attributed to programmes such as Blue Revolution and PMMSY. These initiatives have added 2,299 hectares to fish farming and introduced technological advances in the sector.
Looking ahead, Meghalaya plans to focus on sustainable practices through the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission. The state is also working on conservation efforts for native fish species through community-managed sanctuaries and breeding areas. Addressing the challenges specific to Meghalaya, Hek stressed the need for timely financial assistance and insurance for fish farmers to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. He called for increased cooperation between sectors to support the development of the industry.
The Minister appealed to the Union Minister and concerned officials to expedite approval of schemes proposed by the Meghalaya Fisheries Department since the last Summer Meet in 2023. He also invited stakeholders to collaborate with Meghalaya in developing sustainable fisheries practices, highlighting unique opportunities like cave fisheries and ornamental fisheries.