Fish farming can transform rural economy: EWKHD DC

Shillong, July 11: Calling aquaculture a key driver of rural livelihoods and economic growth, Deputy Commissioner of Eastern West Khasi Hills Anita Kharpor on Saturday urged fish farmers to take full advantage of government schemes to expand fish farming and inspire more people to join the sector.

She was addressing the National Fish Farmers Day 2026 celebration organised by the Office of the Fisheries Officer, Eastern West Khasi Hills District, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), West Khasi Hills, at Dong Gate Dorbar Hall in Pyndengumiong, Mairang.

The event brought together fish farmers, government officials and agricultural experts to recognise the contribution of the fisheries sector and promote sustainable aquaculture in the district.

Among those present were District Agriculture Officer A. Nongbri, KVK West Khasi Hills Subject Matter Specialist R. Pakyntein, Fisheries Officer J.L. Nonglait and officials from various departments.

Addressing the gathering, Kharpor said fish farming offers immense potential to improve farmers’ incomes while creating new livelihood opportunities. She suggested that fish ponds could also be developed into aqua parks, combining aquaculture with eco-tourism to generate additional revenue and promote environmental conservation.

The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted the role of scientific fish farming in conserving endangered fish species and encouraging the cultivation of high-value varieties. She encouraged farmers to adopt modern aquaculture practices and make effective use of government support programmes to scale up production.

National Fish Farmers Day is observed across the country to commemorate the pioneering work of Indian scientists who developed induced breeding technology for fish, a breakthrough that transformed aquaculture in India. The occasion also recognises the contribution of fish farmers towards food security and the growth of the fisheries sector.

As part of the programme, several progressive fish farmers from Eastern West Khasi Hills were felicitated for their outstanding contribution to the sector. The awardees were recognised for successfully building sustainable livelihoods through fish farming, generating employment in their communities and effectively implementing government fisheries schemes.

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