• Demand estimated at 22,000 MT
• Production stands at 9448.12 MT
• Bulk quantity of 3700 MT imported
Kohima, November 21 (MExN): The demand of fish in Nagaland has been estimated to the tune of 22,000 MT@11 kg per capita consumption as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) against the present population of 1980602 persons (2011 census).
The Additional Director of Fisheries & AR, Government of Nagaland, Rongsennungba said the current anticipated fish production (2019-20) in the State stands at 9448.12 MT. In addition, a bulk quantity of 3700 MT fish is supplemented by importing fish from outside the State that provides a total per capita consumption of only 6.68 kgs, which is far behind the requirement.
He therefore, said that there is an urgent need to increase the production of fish in the State to meet the growing consumer demand.
Speaking at the World Fisheries Day celebrated at Government Demonstration Fish Farm, Thizama Kohima on November 21, he said India is one of the largest fish producing countries in the world and shares 7.58% to the global production, contributing 1.24% to India's Gross Value Added (GVA) and 7.28% to the agricultural GVA.
He said that the Department undertakes various projects and programmes for the development of the Fisheries sector in the State to attain self sufficiency in fish production through sustainable development of Fisheries activities. It focuses on optimising production and productivity so as to generate gainful employment opportunities enhancing the State GDP and improve the standard of living in the rural sector.
The Additional Director thanked all department officials, fishers, fish farmers and fish workers for their efforts and contribution towards the development of Fisheries and its activities and further called upon them to re-dedicate themselves to work sincerely for the development of Fisheries in the State in future.
“Let us bring sustainable and productive fisheries development in the State so as to provide improve food and nutrition, livelihoods and employment through fisheries sector, thereby making the celebration of World Fisheries Day more meaningful and significant,” he added.
