By A Correspondent
Patna: The Bihar government is making concerted efforts to export fish produced in the state to global markets on a large scale, with the aim of ensuring higher returns for fish farmers. Fisheries from the state are in demand worldwide, with several varieties fetching between ₹1,500 and ₹1,600 per kilogram in international markets, said Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources Minister Surendra Mehta on Friday.
Addressing a press conference organised by the Information and Public Relations Department, the minister stated that the government is undertaking multiple initiatives to improve the living standards of fish farmers. By the end of this month, “Fresh Catch Fish Outlets” — on the lines of Sudha sales centres — will be opened in Patna and several municipal corporations, offering live and fresh fish.
He added that as Bihar is predominantly an agrarian state, the importance of the department is significant. Continuous efforts are being made to enhance the income of small and marginal farmers. The export of milk and milk-based products has also commenced, which is expected to benefit farmers across the state.
On the occasion, Department Secretary Shirshat Kapil Ashok said that efforts are underway to establish dairy cooperative societies in every village and open Sudha sales centres in all panchayats. Measures are also being taken to increase milk production through animal breed improvement programmes. Arrangements are being made to produce protein-rich cattle feed in the state, while ensuring balanced nutrition for livestock. The department is also working towards achieving 100 per cent vaccination coverage for animals.
Bihar Achieves Self-Reliance in Milk and Fish Production
Ashok further stated that Bihar has become self-reliant in milk and fish production. Sudha products are already being exported, and efforts are being intensified to expand this at a larger scale. In the fisheries sector, the state has made significant progress, with production reaching about nine lakh tonnes. From being ranked ninth a decade ago, Bihar has now moved up to fourth place nationally.
Plans are also underway to establish an Integrated Command Centre for fisheries, along with the formation of a Fisheries Corporation and a Goat Federation in the state. A kiosk-based system will be introduced through federations to ensure the availability of quality meat to consumers.
Sudha Centres to Generate Employment
He added that the expansion of Sudha sales centres in every village will create employment opportunities. Applications are being invited from women associated with livelihood schemes, with selection to be conducted through a lottery system. A standard shop size of 80 square feet has been fixed for these outlets. Others can also apply through COMFED. Managing Director of COMFED, Sameer Saurabh, along with other officials, was present at the event.
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