In a move aimed at boosting the agricultural landscape of Punjab, Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, and Fisheries Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian inaugurated a government fish seed farm worth Rs 10.10 crore at Killianwali village in Fazilka district on Sunday.
Minister Khudian highlighted the Punjab government’s dedication to enhancing farmers’ income by encouraging diversification into allied occupations such as fish, pig, and goat farming. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government has been tirelessly working towards this goal.
The newly inaugurated Fish Seed Farm, the 16th of its kind in the state, spans across 15 acres. Minister Khudian disclosed that Punjab currently has 42,031 acres dedicated to fish farming, with an additional 1315 acres allocated for shrimp farming. This underscores the state’s commitment to bolstering aquaculture activities.
Furthermore, Minister Khudian revealed that Punjab yields over 1 lakh 84 thousand metric tons of fish annually, a testament to the thriving aquaculture sector. To support fish farmers, the state has established one shrimp training center, 11 feed mills, and 7 laboratories, providing essential resources and expertise.
Additionally, the Fisheries Department has extended financial aid amounting to Rs. 23 crore to 431 beneficiaries under various projects, further facilitating the growth of the fisheries sector in Punjab.
The inauguration of the government fish seed farm signifies a significant step towards sustainable agricultural practices and economic empowerment in Punjab. Minister Khudian’s efforts reflect the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and diversification within the agricultural sector, ultimately improving the livelihoods of farmers across the state.
As Punjab continues to embrace modern farming techniques and explore new avenues for income generation, initiatives like the Fish Seed Farm serve as catalysts for progress, ensuring a brighter future for the agricultural community.
