Dimapur, August 19 (MExN): Anglers Association Nagaland (AAN) has appealed to the local fish farmers to take advantage of the current ban on fish import and get into the market.
A press release issued by its general secretary, Ricky Ozukum further stated, “AAN is aware and have been observing the syndicates controlling and patronizing non local fish traders. These syndicates directly deprive the local fish farmers to enter the market thereby hampering the local fish productions.”
It suggested the government to form a Fish Auction House monitored by the government or concerned authorities and not syndicates for equal participation of local fish farmers. Import of outside fish, it added, should be permitted only through permits issued by Government of Nagaland departments after necessary tests are conducted.
Further, the association applauded I Himato Zhimomi, Nagaland Food Safety Commissioner, for his “commendable job” in cracking down on supply and sale of formalin laced fish and use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits, restaurants, medicine dealers.
Meanwhile, AAN welcomed the renaming of Fisheries department to ‘Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’.
It also lauded the department for undertaking and supporting various conservation initiatives on natural water bodies and rivers.
AAN stated it was fortunate to have toured Nagaland with the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources under the guidance of Kevise Kense, Director, “who has been giving equal importance for conservation as well as playing a vital role for state’s economy through conservation of fishes in our rivers.”
“It is encouraging to witness the department’s initiatives in developing State’s natural streams and rivers for fishery activities as well to protect the natural habitat of rare local endangered species at the same time spreading awareness against the unethical practice of fishing in our state, which AAN is fighting against,” it added.
AAN extended “full cooperation” to the department and believed the latter will continue the good work for the local people.
Meanwhile, the association thanked the department for supporting its conservation & awareness activities as well as angling as a sport, which it said is indirectly benefiting the recreational local fishery pond owners and other fish farmers in the State.
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