Despite a surge in fish production within Assam, the state continues to grapple with a substantial annual fish deficit, prompting the need for imports from Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. Annually, approximately 25,000 metric tons (MT) of fish are imported, with an additional 2,000 MT during the Magh Bihu festival alone.
Sources within the Fishery Department reveal a steady rise in fish production over the years. In 2015-16, Assam produced 2.94 lakh MT of fish, and the numbers increased to 4.43 lakh MT in 2022-23. However, this growth hasn’t been sufficient to meet local demand, necessitating significant imports.
According to the Nand Book on Fisheries Statistics by the Union Ministry of Fishery, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, the composition of the 3.93 lakh MT fish production in 2020–21 included 1.01 lakh MT of major carps such as Catla, Rohu, Mrigal, 0.50 lakh MT of minor carps, 1.01 lakh MT of exotic carps, 0.3 lakh MT of murrels (Ophiocephalus spp.), 0.34 lakh MT of catfish, and 0.77 lakh MT of other freshwater fishes.
The state’s fishing industry involves a significant workforce, with 1,25,321 full-time fishermen, 5,40,637 part-time fishermen, and 29,736 occasional fishermen engaged in inland fishery activities. The key production areas encompass 10,607.24 km of rivers and canals, along with 85,068 hectares of tanks and ponds. Beyond these, the state boasts additional fish resources spread over 404,516.98 hectares.
While Assam’s strides in fish production are commendable, the persistent deficit underscores the challenges in meeting the burgeoning demand for fish within the state. Addressing this gap is crucial for ensuring food security and sustaining the livelihoods of the fishing community.
Source: Sentinel Assam
