Teaming up to fortify Mizoram’s fisheries sector, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), Visakhapatnam Research Centre, and the Mizoram Department of Fisheries have initiated an extensive training and demonstration program.
Dubbed as “Responsible Inland Fishing through Sustainable Fish Harvesting Practices” and “Value Addition and Hygienic Handling of Fish for Increasing Domestic Fish Consumption and Promoting Small Scale Entrepreneurship in Mizoram,” this joint effort commenced on January 1, 2024, and is set to conclude on February 1, 2024.
Aimed at empowering various stakeholders within Mizoram’s fisheries sector, including fishermen, fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and unemployed youth, the inaugural session on January 30, 2024, was honored by the presence of Pu Lalthansanga, Hon’ble Minister of the Department of Fisheries, Government of Mizoram.
During the event, Pu Lalthansanga unveiled two training manuals, emphasizing the importance of venture diversification, value addition, and effective marketing strategies in the fisheries sector. Pu C. Lalzahngoa, MPS, Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, Department of Fisheries, commended ICAR-CIFT’s endeavors in enhancing the state’s fisheries sector.
Dr. R. Raghu Prakash, Principal Scientist at ICAR-CIFT, elucidated the institute’s significant contributions across various aspects of fisheries, including fish harvesting, processing, packaging, product development, quality assurance, and utilization of fishery by-products. Under the guidance of Dr. Jesmi Debbarma and Mr. Bhuneshwar, the training program aims to foster self-entrepreneurship among participants through the development of value-added fish products.
The training sessions provide invaluable insights into the lucrative business prospects in post-harvest fisheries, with particular emphasis on maintaining hygiene standards and preparing market-ready fish products, such as gutted fish, marinated fish, fish steaks, and fish fillets. Anticipating the participation of 50 trainees from Aizawl, Mamit, and Kolasib districts, the program will be conducted in 25 groups to ensure comprehensive learning and skill development among the participants.
