The Minister for Transport and Tourism, Sushanta Choudhury, called upon student researchers and scientists at the College of Fisheries, CAU (I), Lembucherra, to work towards achieving self-reliance in fish production for the state.
Minister Sushanta Choudhury made this appeal during the inauguration of the ‘Silver Jubilee Fest and Annual College Week 2023’ at the College of Fisheries in the Lembucherra area. Commending the achievements of the college in its 25 years, the minister highlighted the importance of the establishment of the College of Fisheries in 1998 as a significant milestone benefiting not only Tripura but also the entire northeastern region.
Expressing his joy over the college’s contributions at the national level, Choudhury emphasized the vital role played by agricultural and allied fields in the livelihoods and food security of the northeastern states. However, he raised concerns about Tripura’s low fish productivity compared to the national average.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by variable agro-climatic conditions and socio-economic factors, Minister Choudhury urged students and researchers to focus on developing technologies to enhance fish production, addressing the needs of the farmers in the region.
Highlighting the success of students from the college, the minister mentioned that three students secured top positions in the ICAR-JRF examination in 2013, 2016, and 2019. He also noted with satisfaction that 45 students from the college are serving as Agricultural Research Scientists in the ICAR setup, with many holding higher positions in universities and line departments.
The minister’s call for concerted efforts to boost fish production reflects a commitment to addressing regional challenges and promoting sustainable development in Tripura’s fisheries sector.
