HYDERABAD, Nov 5: Arunachal Pradesh Fisheries Minister Gabriel D Wangsu today highlighted the State’s progress in fisheries development and urged the Centre to address key challenges facing the sector, including speeding up the renewal of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)-II, in the region.
He was speaking at the 13th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in Hyderabad.
The meeting, held at the NFDB headquarters, was attended by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), Fisheries Ministers from various States and members of the NFDB Governing Body.
During the deliberations, Wangsu stated that the centrally sponsored fisheries schemes and projects were being implemented in Arunachal Pradesh with full commitment, with several initiatives nearing completion. He cited the Aqua-Park at Ziro as a successful initiative generating encouraging revenue for the State.
The Minister also urged the Centre to expedite the renewal of the PMMSY Phase II, stating that its timely continuation was essential to sustain the momentum of fisheries development and ensure the smooth implementation of ongoing and proposed projects.
Drawing attention to the region’s specific challenges, Wangsu said prolonged monsoons and heavy rainfall leave the State with a relatively short working season for fisheries activities. He also called for appropriate measures to address the vulnerability of Northeastern States to recurring floods, which threaten fisheries infrastructure, production and livelihoods.
He expressed appreciation for the Centre’s continued guidance and support, stressing the need for stronger Centre-State coordination to harness the region’s fisheries potential.
Wangsu was accompanied by Secretary Fisheries YVVJ Rajshekhar and other State officials.
“The AGM provided a national platform to review the progress and future priorities of the fisheries sector, including strategies to increase fish production and productivity, promote sustainable aquaculture, strengthen infrastructure and improve livelihood opportunities for fish farmers and fishing communities,” officials informed.