ITANAGAR, Jun 25: The Department of Fisheries, GoAP conducted a DFDOs’ Conference-cum-Chintan Baithak at Pare Hall of DK Convention Centre here today, with Fisheries Minister Gabriel D Wangsu in the chair.
The day-long deliberation was attended by MLA-cum-Advisor to the Minister Talem Taboh, Secretary Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development (AHV&DD) YVVJ Rajshekhar, Deputy Directors, and District Fisheries Development Officers (DFDOs) from across the State.
In his address, the Minister called upon officers to work with renewed energy and determination. He said that many people are still unaware of the immense potential of the fisheries sector and stressed the need to revive the enthusiasm once existed in the department.
“This department can work like a magic wand if we work in the right direction,” Wangsu said, while urging officers to function in a coordinated manner and focus on long-term planning based on accurate and timely data.
The Minister stressed the importance of adhering to timelines in data collection and addressing communication gaps within the department. He highlighted the significance of Fish Farmer Producer Companies (FFPCs) in revitalising the sector and directed officers to encourage the formation of more cooperative societies and ensure their proper nurturing.
Wangsu also emphasised the need to attract more youth to fisheries and make effective use of the Catch Them Young programme while identifying genuine beneficiaries.
The Minister further stated that fulfilling the demands of the domestic market should remain the immediate priority before focusing on wider market linkages. He underscored the importance of hatcheries as critical infrastructure for the growth of the fisheries sector and said the government would seriously explore the establishment of more hatcheries in the State.
Describing the officers as leaders in their respective fields, Wangsu urged them to guide farmers with dedication and sincerity. He assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing departmental requirements and career progression issues.
“You work sincerely for our farmers, and I will do what is best for the department and for your career growth,” he said, expressing confidence that the fisheries sector has the potential to become a major source of employment in the years ahead.
Taboh, in his speech, described fisheries as a highly important sector that often receives less attention despite its immense potential. He emphasised that fisheries activities should be carried out in suitable and identified locations, taking advantage of the State’s abundant land and water resources. He urged field officers to ensure that benefits reach genuine farmers without political considerations and suggested that officers themselves take up fisheries activities to motivate and inspire local farmers.
Earlier, the conference commenced with a detailed overview by Secretary Rajshekhar, who highlighted the department’s key areas requiring intervention in the fisheries sector.
This was followed by district-wise presentations by the DFDOs on the performance of their respective districts, fund utilisation, manpower availability, infrastructure status and operational challenges.
An extensive open discussion followed, during which officers shared their experiences, concerns and challenges from the field.
Earlier, the Minister released the Pictorial Fish Directory — Arunachal Pradesh (Indigenous and Cultivable Fish), a publication of the Fisheries Department, which is expected to serve as a valuable reference resource for farmers and researchers across the State.