Tripura Takes Steps to Address Fish Demand Gap with Innovative Measures

Agartala, Apr 26, 2025, By Our Correspondent

Agartala: April 26: The state of Tripura is taking proactive steps to bridge the gap between fish production and demand, with Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das spearheading efforts toward self-sufficiency. Currently, Tripura produces approximately 85,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fish annually, which falls short of the total demand of 1,17,000 MT. To address this shortfall, the state government is implementing innovative strategies, including the utilization of abandoned water bodies for fish farming.

This approach aims to maximize the use of underutilized resources, enabling the expansion of fish farming without the need for extensive new infrastructure. The initiative is designed to be both cost-effective and sustainable, aligning with long-term environmental goals. Minister Das has expressed confidence in the commitment of the state’s fisheries officers, emphasizing their pivotal role in turning these plans into reality.

In a recent address, the minister highlighted the broader significance of these efforts by invoking the “Nation First” slogan, underscoring the importance of food security and its contribution to national development. He emphasized that increasing fish production is not only about meeting local needs but also about fulfilling a responsibility to the nation.

To further these objectives, the state has submitted several fisheries development projects to the central government for approval. If approved, the additional funding and support could enhance production capacity, create employment opportunities, and reduce reliance on fish imports.

These measures reflect a growing recognition of the economic and nutritional importance of fish in the region. As the initiatives progress, Tripura’s approach could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges, offering insights into the integration of innovation, policy, and grassroots implementation in the fisheries sector.