13th NFDB meeting focuses on boosting fisheries development

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh chaired the 13th Governing Body meeting of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in Hyderabad on Thursday, calling for stronger coordination with States and Union Territories to boost fish production, improve fishermen's incomes and strengthen livelihoods, according to government agency
The meeting, held at the NFDB headquarters, was attended by Telangana Fisheries Minister Vakiti Srihari, Arunachal Pradesh Fisheries Minister Gabriel Denwang Wangsu and Tripura Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das, along with representatives of State and Union Territory fisheries departments and members of the NFDB Governing Body.
Addressing the meeting, Singh called on the Board to expand its outreach to fish farmers, ensure timely completion of projects and improve utilisation of funds. He also stressed prioritising northeastern and inland States to bridge gaps in fish production, supply and consumption and promote self-sufficiency.Highlighting the rise in India's fish production from 141.64 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to 197.75 lakh tonnes, the Minister called for further improvements through measurable and result-oriented initiatives.
Department of Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi highlighted efforts to expand aquaculture and strengthen seafood exports, currently valued at around Rs 70,000 crore. He also called for improving NFDB's digital presence, simplifying support services and encouraging greater private investment in the sector.Likhi emphasised promoting entrepreneurship through cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs), start-ups and private enterprises, along with regular consultations with States and stakeholders.
During the meeting, State Fisheries Ministers sought continued Central assistance for fisheries infrastructure, including fish markets and Integrated Aqua Parks. They also called for better coordination between fisheries and rural development programmes to utilise Amrit Sarovars, reservoirs and other water bodies for fisheries development.The Ministers further stressed training and capacity building for fishers, entrepreneurs, women, Self-Help Groups and officials. They also called for nutrition awareness campaigns to encourage greater fish consumption.
NFDB Chief Executive Bijay Kumar Behera presented an overview of the Board's activities, achievements and ongoing initiatives, including the progress of various fisheries and aquaculture schemes.The meeting concluded with a commitment to accelerate fisheries development through better coordination, effective implementation and result-oriented initiatives.