The demand remains at 32,000 MT; 20,000 MT is produced in state, while the rest is imported
SHILLONG, March 6: Meghalaya requires 32,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fish annually, while its current production stands at 20,000 MT, resulting in a shortfall of 12,000 MT, which is imported from outside the state. However, the state is looking to eliminate this dependency with the help of the new Aqua Mission 3.
“…we are launching the new Aqua Mission 3. With an additional 4,000 hectares being included under this initiative, we are hopeful that Meghalaya will achieve self-sufficiency in fish production in the near future,” Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said in the Assembly on Thursday.
Responding to a query from VPP MLA Heavingstone Kharpran (Mawryngkneng) regarding the state’s fish production capacity during the Question Hour, the chief minister stated that in 2011, Meghalaya’s fish production was only 4,000 MT. However, due to various initiatives and programmes implemented over the years, production has now increased fivefold to 20,000 MT, though the demand remains at 32,000 MT.
The chief minister also outlined two key programmes supporting the fisheries sector: Meghalaya Aqua Mission — Under this scheme, for every hectare of fish farming, the government provides Rs 16.75 lakh, with 60% as a subsidy, 15% as a loan, and 25% as the beneficiary’s contribution; and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) — Under this central government scheme, financial support per hectare is Rs 12.40 lakh, with 60% subsidy and 40% beneficiary contribution.
Concerns over formalin in imported fish
On concerns regarding formalin contamination in imported fish, Sangma admitted that checking every kilogram of fish entering the state is challenging. However, joint inspections by the Fisheries and Health Departments are conducted regularly.
“These inspections help us identify suppliers or wholesalers sending fish contaminated with formalin, and appropriate action is taken,” he assured.
The chief minister also informed the House that fish farmers in Meghalaya primarily cultivate two types of fish — Indian Major Carps: Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal; and Exotic Carps: Common Carp, Grass Carp, and Silver Carp.
Additionally, the government is providing training to farmers on pond management and introducing technological interventions such as biofloc ponds to enhance productivity.
More hatcheries
Leader of the Opposition Mukul Sangma pointed out a gap in hatcheries in Meghalaya, forcing farmers to import fish fingerlings from Assam. He urged the government to address this issue.
In response, the chief minister said Meghalaya currently has 61 hatcheries producing approximately 24.7 million fingerlings. However, to bridge the gap, the government has sanctioned Rs 10 crore to establish 35 additional hatcheries, which will significantly increase production.
“Once these additional hatcheries are completed, Meghalaya will have a total of 96 hatcheries, ensuring an adequate supply of fingerlings,” he added.
Sangma also mentioned that hatcheries for both indigenous and exotic fish varieties are being set up. While an indigenous fish hatchery is already operational in West Garo Hills and Shillong, others are in progress at multiple locations.
The government has also taken steps to boost fish feed production. Currently, Meghalaya has 15 feed mills, producing 778 MT of feed annually. Additionally, 12 new mills have been sanctioned, and 17 existing mills will be upgraded in a phased manner to further increase production.