Shillong: It is learnt that fish farmers in Meghalaya have no outlet to sell their fish. When asked why they are not taking it to Iewduh, an officer of the Fisheries Department said the fish merchants of Iewduh do not buy their fish because they have all invested substantially in fish ponds in Andhra Pradesh.
A fish merchant when asked if this is the actual position said fish production in Meghalaya is a relatively new venture and as such unreliable since the marketing networks are yet to be set up.
The merchants explained that for years they have depended on Andhra Pradesh for the bulk of the fish and have therefore invested in ponds there, so it would not be feasible for them to discontinue bringing fish from Andhra to the State immediately.
Director, NFDB, Dr Krishnaiah made a power point presentation at the workshop demonstrating how Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and others have set up state-of-the-art fish markets which are clean, hygienic and free from stench. He stated that money for creating such infrastructure is available with the National Fish Development Board.
For now the fish farmers of Meghalaya bring their wares and sell them near the Meghalaya Additional Secretariat and it is learnt that the fishes sell like hot cakes.
Fish farmers after seeing the presentation said they hoped that the Government here would adopt a similar model for them so that they can sell their fishes in a more organised manner.