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Workshop on Enhancing Aquaculture and Fish Production Held in Meghalaya

        The workshop titled "Strategies for Enhancing Aquaculture and Fish Production in Meghalaya" was organized by the Division of Animal and Fisheries Science (DAFS) at the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, in collaboration with the NFDB-North East Regional Centre, Guwahati. The event aimed to discuss key strategies for the development of fisheries in Meghalaya and the entire Northeast region. The inaugural session began with the traditional lighting of the lamp by distinguished dignitaries. Dr. S. K. Das, Principal Scientist and In-charge of Fisheries, welcomed the gathering and elaborated on the workshop’s aim, which was focused on fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enhance fish production and productivity in Meghalaya. Smti. Oldalin Khongagain from the Directorate of Fisheries, Government of Meghalaya, encouraged participants to work diligently for the growth of the fisheries sector. Shri A. K. Borah, Officer-In-Charge of NDFB-NERC, Guwahati, also urged farmers to collaborate with ICAR for technical guidance and to take advantage of various government schemes, including PMSSY. Dr. Sandeep Ghatak, Principal Scientist and Head of DAFS, discussed the potential for incorporating diverse aquatic organisms, such as snails and mussels, into the aquaculture system and emphasized the need to promote private investment in the sector. Dr. V. K. Mishra, Director of ICAR, highlighted the importance of the integrated fish farming system as a crucial technology for improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers in Meghalaya. He further stressed that good quality water, fingerlings, and feed are essential for success. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. S. G. Singh. The technical session of the workshop was attended by 50 participants, including Dr. S. K. Das, Mr. S. G. Singh, Mr. T. Tayung, Mr. B. Mukhim, Mr. P. Mahanta, Mr. A. Das, departmental officials, KVK staff, and progressive farmers from Ri Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, East Garo Hills, and South Garo Hills. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, including aquaculture in mid-hill conditions, integrated fish farming, modern aquaculture techniques, fish health, NFDB schemes and subsidies, and entrepreneurship development in fisheries. The event successfully emphasized the need for collective efforts to enhance aquaculture and fisheries in the region. It concluded with the distribution of quality fish fingerlings to the farmers as an incentive to boost fish production.