India's Fishery Growth: A Call to Harness Inland Water Potential

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasizes maximizing fish production in states rich in inland water resources. Highlighting India's global standing, he notes a 103% growth in fish output over a decade. He encourages better infrastructure and fisher registration to unlock central benefits and economic growth.

On Saturday, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh called on West Bengal and other states rich in inland water resources to optimize their fish production capabilities. Highlighting a significant national growth rate of 103% in the fisheries sector over the last decade, he underscored India's position as the world's second-largest fish producer.

Speaking to fisheries department officials from several states, Singh noted the substantial growth in fish output from inland waterbodies and urged states to reach their full potential by fostering small fish growers and improving infrastructure. He pointed out that West Bengal, despite being a major contributor, has a significant gap in official fisher registrations compared to those involved in the industry.

Singh suggested that technical infrastructure, better processing facilities, and private sector involvement are crucial for boosting domestic supply and exports. He advocated for cooperative management of fish farming and assured central support for modernization efforts, emphasizing the potential positive impact on both state and national economies.

(With inputs from agencies.)