Imphal: Manipur officials held a press briefing at the DIPR Auditorium in Imphal to detail state-led efforts in aquaculture. The Fisheries Department team included Director T. Phulen Meitei, Joint Director Hemchandra N., and several other key staff members. They presented plans to boost fish stocks and help local farmers make more money.
The department signed a deal with the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education in Mumbai. They want to breed high-value Ngakrijou fish using new technology. This replaces wild collection with controlled breeding programs and specialized farmer training. Phulen Meitei noted, "The Fisheries Department has been implementing several innovative programmes aimed at conserving indigenous fish species, promoting scientific aquaculture practices, and enhancing the income of fish farmers across Manipur."
Livelihood initiatives are expanding across Loktak Lake. Officials installed 45 cage culture batteries and 35 pen culture units in locations like Takmu Lake, Thanga, and Toubul. This follows a successful pilot program in Naranseina. These projects target long-term sustainable growth for lake communities.
The Sareng Revival Project continues to yield results. Launched in 2021, the initiative offers farmers 50 percent government assistance on rearing costs. Sareng production grew from 2,600 kg in 2022 to over 7,000 kg for the 2025 Ningol Chakouba Mela. This project remains active in 2026.
Infrastructure upgrades are underway. A new feed mill in Lamphel produces up to 500 kilograms of fish feed daily. The state also provided 100 electric paddle aerators and 50 soil testing kits to farmers. In Bishnupur District, a new Fish Cluster Project integrates the entire value chain. It includes hatcheries, biofloc units, ice plants, and a large-scale feed mill capable of processing 2 tonnes per day.
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